The pandemic has certainly changed a lot of things for many people. From the way we work, to how we communicate, and when we could be with our loved ones. Many of us sometimes wish we could go back to simpler times.

Despite it all, some things just don’t change. Like how Filipinos celebrate traditions. Christmas remains one of the biggest and most anticipated holidays of the year. There’s aguinaldo from Ninang and Ninong; eating buko salad with Lola; watching lantern lighting with Papa; and cooking sweet spaghetti with Mama.

These are the memories that we hold dear in our hearts. Aside from family, Filipinos also love to invite neighbors over for noche buena, attend mass with friends; and give goodies to carolers. Everyone, especially kids, should have a memorable Christmas. But it can be hard with so many families struggling financially.

That’s why community-driven call-for-help platform, GooZam, has prepared something good in time for the holidays.

What is GooZam?

GooZam is a super platform that’s innovating social good in the new normal. It aims to connect volunteers, organizations, and individuals to improve lives and create more socially responsible communities. 

For six years, GooZam has helped organize charity events, relief operations, capacity building actions, as well as developed life-saving solutions in the Philippines. Through the GooZam Super App, you can be: a volunteer, vendor, Goodriver, or end user. The platform caters to all kinds of services you expect to encounter in the modern day.

But best of all, it encourages everyday people, like us, to be Good Samaritans. Always wanted to make a difference yet not sure where or how to start? You can sign-up to be a volunteer right on the app. When someone needs help in your area, you will be notified as an emergency responder.

With cities becoming more advanced and connected, GooZam makes it quick and easy for help to be heard. This is technology at its best: serving the common good.

Introducing Bayanihan Around the World

With #Christmas2021 right around the corner, we shouldn’t forget our fellowmen during their time of need. The truth is, not everyone will eat sweet spaghetti this Christmas. Not many kids will find a gift inside their stockings either.

But with your support we can change that.

GooZam, in partnership with ICx, presents Bayanihan Around The World (BATW): an initiative to present Filipino talents to increase awareness for campaigns and causes in Western Visayas. Through the generous donations of our kababayans here and abroad, we can put a smile on people’s faces for the holidays.

There will be music, gift-giving, a colorful parade, and more!

Ilonggo Performers LIVE on Facebook

Who doesn’t love a jamming session, right? BATW is your chance to help, while enjoying amazing performances. From December 1 to 14, 2021, expect LIVE performances from several of today’s singing champs. Sit back, relax, and let your ears get a feast of mellow sounds.

There’s Cassey Alcayaga on Dec. 4, Kolab Sessionistas on Dec. 6, Heartbeats Duo on Dec. 9, Oyayi on Dec. 11, and Joshua Daulo on Dec. 12. These are just a few of the talents lined up for you. To know more about the exact time and date of their LIVE sessions, please follow the GooZam Community Facebook page.

Caroling On-the-Go with Parade of Lights

Filipinos love singing so much, we have carolers before Christmas starts! Previously, some of them would begin going from house-to-house as early as September. But due to the pandemic, we’ve missed out on this delightful tradition for almost two years now.

But the great news is that BATW is giving it an upgrade. Kids (and adults) can look forward to On-the-Go Caroling with Parade of Lights. Food and toys will be distributed by none other than Santa in a whimsical elf car. And yes, there will be carolers. So look out for these themed fleets when they come to your barangay!

Gift-Giving for Children

A toy can mean the world to kids, particularly now with ongoing pandemic restrictions. Toys are beneficial for babies and toddlers, too. According to the Child Development Institute, toys help kids learn about their surroundings and stimulate their imagination. They’re also a fun bonding activity with parents.

Thanks to local and foreign donations, BATW can hold a gift-giving event for children in partner barangays. There will be food, care kits, candies, and lots of merry-making. It’s like an early Christmas present!

Want your organization to be part of Bayanihan Around The World? Become a Partner and receive various benefits! Contact GooZam for more details.

How To Be Part of Bayanihan

GooZam has been overwhelmed with the number of volunteers who signed up for BATW. But there’s always room for more kind hearts. No act is too small. This year, make someone’s Christmas special by volunteering to help pack, sort, and distribute donations.

Sign-up to be a Good Samaritan through the GooZam Volunteer Form. 

Looking forward to Bayanihan Around The World? Be sure to Like the GooZam Community Facebook page to stay updated. There’s going to be loads of fun with your favorite singers performing LIVE!

Don’t let the good vibes stop after the holidays. The GooZam app is still under development, but should be launched in the first quarter of 2022. It’s going to be available on Google Play and the App Store.

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