03/05/2026
Mel was recently on a humanitarian mission in the Philippines. He was invited by Timber Mart to participate in building three classrooms for a school that serves over 400 students. Mel had felt blessed to take part of it such an important project.
A few years ago, the school lost a similar building to a typhoon, and not long after that, they experienced an earthquake. The school still doesn’t have running water and students take turns carrying in water jugs each day. Mel felt heartbroken after hearing about this and witnessing it for himself.
Mel reflected on what amazed him most; Even in these harsh environments, many of the kids still learned how to speak and write very well, which you can see in some of the beautiful thank-you cards he received from the children he helped.
Watching the children laugh, play simple playground games, and line up every morning excited to see the team reminded Mel of something powerful. Maybe they’re not the unfortunate ones. Maybe we are the ones who have forgotten how little it takes to feel and experience joy.
During recesses and lunches, the students spent their time talking with the team, playing basketball, and simply connecting. On the last day, they held a beautiful ceremony with speeches, music, and heartfelt gifts. When it was time to leave, Mel felt like he received 400 hugs goodbye, with many students having tears in their eyes. Mel will never forget it.
Before the team left, they bought basketballs, a net, soccer balls, and other sports equipment that will get plenty of use.
Mel often says: “If you ever have the opportunity to do something like this, don’t overthink it. Just go. It will change you. I still well up thinking about the kids, and I’m sure they’re thinking about us. I truly believe we are all better people because of this experience.”
The organization that coordinated everything and does this work in many countries is Developing World Connections. Mel highly recommend learning more about them and looking into what they do.
In some of the images, you will see the children Mel and the team helped, some of the thank-you cards Mel received, and a certificate of appreciation.
