Although, Bantayan’s
leisurely lifestyle is our retirement dream, there are thousands of Bantayanons
who need some helping hands to get out of poverty. Our association was officially
formed and incorporated in New York in 1998 with the main goal of serving
the needs of the Bantayan Islands and mostly its needy residents. The Association
was approved as tax-exempt non-profit organization under section 509(a) of
the US Internal Revenue Code. Through its seven years of existence, the association
had donated $2700.00 and one balikbayan box-full of medical and surgical supplies
to the Bantayan District Hospital. Year 2000, the association awarded $2800.00
worth of scholarships to four (4) well-deserving graduates from the different
high schools of Bantayan Islands to pursue their college careers. Year 2001,
the association granted $4900.00 to seven (7) four-year college scholarships.
Year 2002 our scholars increased to nine (9) at $5400.00. Year 2003, the association
spent $6400.00 for 11 scholars. Year 2004, our first batch of four (4) scholars
graduated from the program but 4 incoming scholars replaced them to make on
going in the program for $5000.00.
ABA was not really planned and we did not have any goals except socializing
with Bantayanons here in NY/NJ area. The association was formed in a get together
at Perla's (Caratao Roldan)residence in 1997. We held a dinner-dance since
we were ball-room fanatics. We found out that we can raised funds by doing
this and helped Bantayan Island at the same time. Therefore, we registered
and was approved as a tax-exempt non-profit organization by the US govt. &
State of New York sometime 1999 and our goal was set then - to help Bantayan
Island.
We were amazed in what we accomplished in just ball-room dancing. Raising
funds was no problem the 1st year as a start, but as you go back to the same
people every year asking for donations is another story even though we showed
them with hard proofs. We hope your interest won't fade as years passed since
we are sincere in our cause as our records show.
Alhough we went to 4 leaderships changed, we still have the same people running
ABA since we founded except for the Sulangan group which joined us after 2
years. We salute them since they are the most loyal & hardworking. They have
to drive 4/5 hours one way just to attend our meeting, picnic, or party. Not
only that, they have to bring a bushel of crabs or oysters (whatever the season)
every meeting we have. The Doong group is another one, they are the most active
as a group. While we, whose roots are in the poblacion proper, we are just
trying to keep the sail in the right direction.
The association is looking for more Bantayanons here in the USA to participate
and be involved in our charitable missions. We need ideas and suggestions
from other Bantayanons. Please come and share your time, talent and treasure
as we try to help our fellow Bantayanons in our country.