By: Gail Espinas (Coordinator)
A day before Valentine’s Day, February 13, 2014, Mr. Bob and Mrs. Beverley Sellar arrived in Manila, from the USA. For those who do not know them, Bob and Beverley live in Pleasanton, California USA, and are close friends of our dear ABC Foundation Chairman Mr. Lew Edwards. For many years they have also been generous ABC Foundation sponsors.
The Sellars are known for being generous, kindhearted, compassionate and humble. Just two days after their arrival, I had the privilege of personally meeting them. I had heard about the couple’s great deeds and big-heartedness and I was more than happy to finally get to know them.
Bob and Beverley last visited the Philippines two years ago. They are well-known for their active involvement in providing Feeding Programs for two schools where ABC Foundation has Night High Scholars – St. Dominic Academy in Pulilan, and Siena College of San Jose at San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
Along with Chairman Lew Edwards and other friends and sponsors, Bob and Beverly visited St. Dominic Academy and Siena College of San Jose last February 18, and February 20, respectively.
The Night High Scholars loved and appreciate them so much that most of them took pictures and gave the couple thank you cards to show their deep gratitude.
Before coming to the country, Beverley Sellar and her grandchildren made friendship bracelets for the NHS scholars, which they distributed during their school visits. The scholars were very happy to receive the bracelets, touched by Beverly’s and her grandchildren’s thoughtfulness.
Aside from the 2 Feeding Programs, Bob and Beverley are also sponsoring 6 4th year Night High scholars at St. Dominic Academy whom they visited personally, and 3 College Scholars who are studying in Manila, 2 of whom they treated to a Corregidor Tour.
During their visit, Bob and Beverley attended some ABC Foundation events, such as the Night High School Scholars’ Assembly on February 19, and the Gabi ng Pasasalamat (Night of Thanksgiving) on February 21, both held at Siena College, Taytay, Rizal.
Though short, Bob and Beverley’s visit to the Philippines was very fruitful. They are wonderful examples what it means to be “givers.” They have given their time, love and support to all of our Night High scholars, and for that we salute the goodness of their hearts.
As Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”.
Thank you, Bob and Bev for being a big blessing, and for touching the lives of our dear scholars. We can’t wait for your return. Cheers!