Permaculture With A Heart: Bahay Diño Program
BACKGROUND
Are humans capable of loving one another?
Some two thousand years ago, one man believed in this and bet his life on it.
At the present time, in a town called Pililla, Rizal, located East of Manila, Philippines, a priest is leading a civic movement of love and care for 27 elderly and persons with disability who have been forgotten and abandoned by their family.
Supported by hundreds if not thousands of ordinary men and women, in this mission of love and care for the poor and the needy, the JOSEFHEIM FOUNDATION, INC. (JFI) in cooperation with the HOUSE OF JOSEPH FOUNDATION, INC. (HOJ) of New York, USA, would initiate a program called "Permaculture With A Heart: Bahay Diño Program". Due to the growing number of residents, donations from the public would not be enough, thus this program would aim for the sustainability of JFI.
Some two thousand years ago, one man believed in this and bet his life on it.
At the present time, in a town called Pililla, Rizal, located East of Manila, Philippines, a priest is leading a civic movement of love and care for 27 elderly and persons with disability who have been forgotten and abandoned by their family.
Supported by hundreds if not thousands of ordinary men and women, in this mission of love and care for the poor and the needy, the JOSEFHEIM FOUNDATION, INC. (JFI) in cooperation with the HOUSE OF JOSEPH FOUNDATION, INC. (HOJ) of New York, USA, would initiate a program called "Permaculture With A Heart: Bahay Diño Program". Due to the growing number of residents, donations from the public would not be enough, thus this program would aim for the sustainability of JFI.
INTRODUCTION
Why take care of the Forgotten?
We believe helping the forgotten or marginalized people is an essential aspect of humanitarianism and social justice for several reasons which we would like to discuss below.
We believe helping the forgotten or marginalized people is an essential aspect of humanitarianism and social justice for several reasons which we would like to discuss below.
Every person, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Helping forgotten people is a way to ensure that no one is left behind or ignored, affirming their intrinsic worth as human beings. Many forgotten or marginalized people are in dire need of necessities like food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare. Helping them can alleviate their suffering and improve their quality of life. Neglecting certain groups within a society can lead to social unrest and conflict. Addressing the needs of forgotten people can contribute to social cohesion and stability.
Ensuring that the rights of all individuals are respected is a fundamental principle of human rights. Helping forgotten people is a way to uphold these rights, including the right to life, liberty, and security. Many individuals, organizations, and governments view helping the less fortunate as a moral and ethical imperative. It is seen as a duty to help those who are in need. However, in the Philippines, whose population is more than 115 Million people, spread over the archipelago of 7,641 islands, this duty of the government is mostly far-off. Due to lack of resources, miss-governance and corruption, this responsibility will often fall on the shoulders of non-government organizations such as the JFI. In this country, the root cause of the existence of forgotten or marginalized people is poverty. By helping forgotten people access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, we can break the cycle of poverty. Helping forgotten people can leave a legacy of positive change, both for individuals and for society as a whole. It can inspire future generations to continue the work of social justice. |
In conclusion, helping forgotten peoples is not only a matter of moral and ethical responsibility but also has practical, societal, and global implications. It reflects our shared humanity and a commitment to creating a more just and equitable world for all.
RATIONALE BEHIND PERMACULTURE
Why choose Permaculture which is equivalent to Permanent Agriculture as a way to help the marginalized community?
Among the many opportunities presented to JFI, Permaculture is the most promising. The Philippines is primarily an agriculture-based country and with so many farm lands, agriculture, i.e. farming and livestock plays a central role in the lives of its population. |
1. Improving Food Security
By supporting marginalized communities in agriculture, we can enhance their food security, ensuring they have a consistent and reliable source of sustenance.
Promoting local agriculture encourages the development of local food systems, reducing dependence on global supply chains and ensuring food sovereignty for marginalized populations. Enabling marginalized people to feed themselves and their communities through agriculture can be an empowering experience, restoring their sense of dignity and self-reliance.
Promoting local agriculture encourages the development of local food systems, reducing dependence on global supply chains and ensuring food sovereignty for marginalized populations. Enabling marginalized people to feed themselves and their communities through agriculture can be an empowering experience, restoring their sense of dignity and self-reliance.
2. Livelihood Opportunities
Agriculture offers livelihood opportunities to marginalized populations, particularly in rural areas. It can provide a source of income and economic stability, which is crucial for reducing poverty and improving overall well-being. Many marginalized communities are located in rural areas where agriculture is a primary economic activity. Investing in agriculture can stimulate rural development, create jobs, and improve infrastructure, which can benefit these communities significantly.
3. Strengthening Communities
Promoting sustainable agricultural practices can help marginalized people not only meet their immediate needs but also protect the environment and ensure the well-being of future generations. Agriculture often involves communal work and cooperation, which can help build stronger, more resilient communities. By encouraging collective farming or shared agricultural practices, marginalized groups can forge bonds and support systems. Engaging in agriculture can provide opportunities for education and skill development. Whether through agricultural training, learning about sustainable practices, or acquiring business skills for farming, marginalized individuals can gain knowledge and autonomy
4. Enhancing Health and Well-bein
Agriculture can improve the nutritional status of marginalized populations by enabling them to grow a diverse range of crops. This contributes to better health outcomes and reduces malnutrition
5. Empowering Women
Women often play a significant role in agriculture, and empowering women in this sector can have a positive impact on gender equality and women's rights. Supporting marginalized women in agriculture can lead to increased independence and opportunities.
6. Dealing with Climate Change
Sustainable agricultural practices can help marginalized communities adapt to the effects of climate change. This is particularly important in regions where climate variability poses a threat to livelihoods
7. Preserving Culture
Agriculture is often deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of many marginalized communities. By supporting agricultural practices, we can help preserve cultural heritage and traditional knowledge.
In summary, agriculture offers a multifaceted approach to addressing the needs of marginalized communities. It can provide food, income, education, and a sense of belonging, while also contributing to environmental sustainability and local development. By choosing agriculture, and in particular permaculture as a means to help marginalized people, we can address various aspects of their well-being and work towards creating more inclusive and equitable societies.
In summary, agriculture offers a multifaceted approach to addressing the needs of marginalized communities. It can provide food, income, education, and a sense of belonging, while also contributing to environmental sustainability and local development. By choosing agriculture, and in particular permaculture as a means to help marginalized people, we can address various aspects of their well-being and work towards creating more inclusive and equitable societies.
THE SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Can a non-profit organization venture into a for-profit business?
Yes, but there are certain rules and considerations JFI need to keep in mind to maintain their non-profit status and adhere to legal and ethical standards. This is often referred to as "social entrepreneurship" or "non-profit ventures."
Yes, but there are certain rules and considerations JFI need to keep in mind to maintain their non-profit status and adhere to legal and ethical standards. This is often referred to as "social entrepreneurship" or "non-profit ventures."
1. Aligning Mission and Purpose
Here are some important considerations: The for-profit business should align with the non-profit organization's mission and purpose. It should be clear how the business activities further the non-profit goals and how any profits generated will be used to support the nonprofit's mission. Many non-profits create a separate for-profit subsidiary to engage in commercial activities. This subsidiary is a distinct legal entity from the non-profit. This separation helps maintain the non-profit's tax-exempt status and ensures that the for-profit business pays taxes like any other company. Income generated from the for-profit business may be subject to taxation. Nonprofits should consult with tax experts to understand the tax implications and how to navigate them properly. Nonprofits need to be cautious about using their tax-exempt resources for for-profit activities. It's important to segregate funds and ensure that the nonprofit's assets and funds are not used to subsidize the for-profit venture.
2. Maintaining transparency
Nonprofits must maintain transparency about their for-profit activities and how the profits are used to support their mission. This is often reported in the organization's financial statements. Entering the for-profit sector involves risks and uncertainties. Non-profits should be aware of these risks and have a strategy for managing them. Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations related to the for-profit business. This includes business registration, licensing, employment laws, and industry-specific regulations. Nonprofits must navigate the potential conflicts of interest and ethical concerns that can arise when engaging in for-profit activities. It's essential to maintain a strong ethical foundation. The for-profit venture should not compromise the social or environmental impact goals of the non-profit. Nonprofits should consider how to measure and report on the social impact of their for-profit activities. The nonprofit's board of directors should provide oversight and governance for the for-profit subsidiary, ensuring that it aligns with the nonprofit's mission and values. It's important for nonprofits to consult with legal and financial experts to navigate the complexities of entering the for-profit sector while maintaining their non-profit status and social impact objectives.
3. Using principles of entrepreneurship while addressing social issues
Additionally, they should also be prepared for potential changes in their tax-exempt status or regulatory requirements based on the specific activities they undertake. Social entrepreneurship is an approach to business and innovation that combines the principles of entrepreneurship with a focus on addressing social, environmental, or cultural issues. Social entrepreneurs are individuals or organizations that seek to create positive change in the world by using business strategies and entrepreneurial principles to tackle pressing societal problems. Here are some key aspects of social entrepreneurship: The primary goal of social entrepreneurship is to create a positive and measurable impact on society. This impact can take various forms, such as alleviating poverty, improving education, promoting environmental sustainability, enhancing healthcare access, or addressing other social issues.
4. Achieving financial sustainability while creating positive social outcomes
Social entrepreneurs often develop innovative and sustainable solutions to complex social problems. They may introduce new products, services, or business models that challenge traditional approaches and lead to positive change. Social enterprises aim to achieve financial sustainability while pursuing their social missions. They generate revenue through their business activities, which can be reinvested to further their social goals. Unlike purely profit-driven businesses, social entrepreneurs focus on a "double" or "triple" bottom line, which includes economic, social, and often environmental performance indicators. They measure success not only by financial profit but also by the positive outcomes they create in these other areas. Social enterprises can take various organizational forms, such as non-profits, for-profits, or hybrid structures. Hybrid models may involve a non-profit organization running a for-profit subsidiary to fund its social mission or a for-profit company incorporating social responsibility into its core business practices. Social entrepreneurs often collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, and communities.
5. Ensuring positive social impact
Partnerships and cooperation are critical to achieving meaningful and lasting social impact. Social entrepreneurs emphasize the importance of data and metrics to measure the effectiveness of their initiatives. They seek to demonstrate the tangible results of their work and continually improve their impact. Social entrepreneurs are typically driven by a strong sense of purpose and a passion for making a difference. They are committed to their social missions and often willing to take risks to achieve their goals. Social entrepreneurs often work in dynamic and challenging environments. They must be adaptable, open to learning, and willing to adjust their strategies as they gain insights and experience.
6. Working globally
Social entrepreneurship is not limited by geography. Many social entrepreneurs tackle global issues and operate on an international scale. Notable examples of social entrepreneurship include organizations like TOMS, which donates a pair of shoes for every pair sold, and Grameen Bank, which provides microloans to empower people in poverty. These initiatives have not only created successful businesses but have also made significant positive impacts on the world. In recent years, social entrepreneurship has gained momentum and recognition, with more institutions, investors, and individuals supporting and engaging in this approach to address some of the world's most pressing challenges.
THE COLLABORATION
The House of Joseph Foundation, Inc. (HOJ) is a 501(c)3 non-profit, public charitable organization registered in the State of New York last March 2022. The Employer ID Number is 88-1243027. Its Mission is to connect funding and material resources to that of capital and operational needs for various foundations, ministries and community in the geographical areas of the Philippines.
Its first beneficiary, the Josefheim Foundation, Inc. (JFI) located at Sitio Labong, Bugarin, Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal, Philippines is a Home for the Aged facility. The JFI was established in 2017 and is currently taking care of 27 elderly and persons with disabilities, who were abandoned by their families.
The JFI has many programs being studied at the moment, i.e. home care, job training, bamboo processing, retirement living, etc. But the subject of this document is named, the "Permaculture With A Heart: Bahay Diño Program". This program aims to create small to medium scale farming businesses whose proceeds would be donated back to the care of the poor and the needy. It would also support the poor, diocesan priests of the Diocese of Antipolo. It would also provide jobs to indigent people to give them the dignity and self-respect as human beings. The goal is to have a self-supporting, sustainable community of underserved peoples that would grow its own food, have green energy for power and water, have job security, care for the poor and the needy, and most of all to physically, spiritually and emotionally embody our shared humanity's aspiration to love one another, regardless of religion and ethnicity.
Under the Permaculture with a Heart: Bahay Diño Program, the JFI-HOJ partnership would venture into the Projects below, together with other affiliated companies and individuals. Its targeted proceeds would support the Home for the Aged facility and its growing residents, as well as give jobs to indigent people.
Its first beneficiary, the Josefheim Foundation, Inc. (JFI) located at Sitio Labong, Bugarin, Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal, Philippines is a Home for the Aged facility. The JFI was established in 2017 and is currently taking care of 27 elderly and persons with disabilities, who were abandoned by their families.
The JFI has many programs being studied at the moment, i.e. home care, job training, bamboo processing, retirement living, etc. But the subject of this document is named, the "Permaculture With A Heart: Bahay Diño Program". This program aims to create small to medium scale farming businesses whose proceeds would be donated back to the care of the poor and the needy. It would also support the poor, diocesan priests of the Diocese of Antipolo. It would also provide jobs to indigent people to give them the dignity and self-respect as human beings. The goal is to have a self-supporting, sustainable community of underserved peoples that would grow its own food, have green energy for power and water, have job security, care for the poor and the needy, and most of all to physically, spiritually and emotionally embody our shared humanity's aspiration to love one another, regardless of religion and ethnicity.
Under the Permaculture with a Heart: Bahay Diño Program, the JFI-HOJ partnership would venture into the Projects below, together with other affiliated companies and individuals. Its targeted proceeds would support the Home for the Aged facility and its growing residents, as well as give jobs to indigent people.
THE PROJECTS
A. Mushroom Farming Project
The Oyster Mushroom Farming Project will embrace the mission to educate many people about a sustainable farming / agriculture project that relies on WASTE products such as sawdust or coffee grounds as substrates.
Such sustainable agricultural practice reduces waste and makes use of many raw materials that could have been discarded or thrown away as garbage. Furthermore, the oyster mushroom cultivation is a valuable educational tool. |
Situated in Sitio Bulo-Bulo, Brgy Quiasao, Pililla, Rizal, this project also aims to provide employment, livelihood and teach social entrepreneurship around the communities of Pililla, Rizal. Many schools and universities use mushroom cultivation as part of their science curricula. Oyster mushrooms, like many fungi, are being studied for their many potential medicinal properties. Some studies and research revealed that oyster mushrooms may have immune-boosting and antioxidant effects, making them subjects of interest in the field of natural medicine.
One of the relevance will be the data that we will develop/gather once we finish the cycle of mushroom production, another thing is the technology transfer we can share and innovations to the cultivation of the fungi variety.
Through adaptation of modern technology and results of research and development programs, the two major innovations under the “Oyster Mushroom Farming Project” are creating other products, such as:
a. Mushroom Powder
b. Mushroom Chips or "Chicharon"
Project Manager: Bro. Marvin Da Silva
Budget Required: $215,000.00
Status: On-going
One of the relevance will be the data that we will develop/gather once we finish the cycle of mushroom production, another thing is the technology transfer we can share and innovations to the cultivation of the fungi variety.
Through adaptation of modern technology and results of research and development programs, the two major innovations under the “Oyster Mushroom Farming Project” are creating other products, such as:
a. Mushroom Powder
b. Mushroom Chips or "Chicharon"
Project Manager: Bro. Marvin Da Silva
Budget Required: $215,000.00
Status: On-going
B. The Homestead Project
The idea of creating a farm for JFI was born out of the goal of having a sustainable source of income for its beneficiaries. Although the primary goal is financial stability, this project also aims to open doors for the employment of locals and able-bodied residents under the care of the foundation. The plan is to create a produce farm that will supply the demands of the community, the foundation, and partners such as restaurants and local markets. At the same time, providing a healthy environment and experience for its growing community.
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We envisioned to do the project in Phases.
Phase One: Site Development and Crops;
Phase Two: 4 Room Bed and Breakfast with Cafe;
Phase Three: Pavillion for Events
Project Manager: Sis Chen Collado
Budget Required: $500,000.00
Status: Design Phase
Phase One: Site Development and Crops;
Phase Two: 4 Room Bed and Breakfast with Cafe;
Phase Three: Pavillion for Events
Project Manager: Sis Chen Collado
Budget Required: $500,000.00
Status: Design Phase
C. Bamboo Farming Project
Bamboo farming in the Philippines has gained significant attention in recent years due to its environmental and economic benefits. Bamboo is a versatile and fast-growing plant that can be used for various purposes, ranging from construction to furniture production.
1.Environmental Sustainability
Bamboo is known for its rapid growth and ability to thrive in diverse climates. It is considered an eco-friendly alternative to traditional timber, as it can be harvested without causing deforestation.
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2. Versatility
Bamboo has a wide range of applications, including construction, furniture making, handicrafts, and even as a food source. Its versatility makes it a valuable resource for various industries.
3. Carbon Sequestration
Bamboo can absorb high amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change.
4. Climate
The Philippines' tropical climate is conducive to bamboo growth, with ample rainfall and warm temperatures. Various bamboo species thrive in different regions of the country.
5. Geographical Diversity
Bamboo cultivation is suitable in different terrains, including lowland areas and hilly or mountainous regions, making it accessible to a wide range of farmers across the country.
6. Livelihood Opportunities
Bamboo farming provides income-generating opportunities for local communities. From harvesting and processing to the creation of various products, the bamboo industry supports livelihoods at multiple levels.
7. Export Potential
The Philippines has the potential to become a significant exporter of bamboo and bamboo products. The demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials in global markets enhances the export opportunities for Philippine bamboo. Processing Infrastructure: Developing proper processing facilities for bamboo is crucial to maximize its economic potential. Investment in technology for bamboo treatment, preservation, and manufacturing is essential.
8. Awareness and Education
Creating awareness among farmers about sustainable bamboo farming practices and the benefits of bamboo as a cash crop is essential for the industry's growth.
9. Research and Development
Continued research and development in bamboo cultivation techniques, pest management, and product innovation will further strengthen the industry.
In conclusion, the bamboo farming industry in the Philippines holds great promise for sustainable economic development and environmental conservation. With the right investments, education, and infrastructure, the country can harness the full potential of bamboo as a valuable and renewable resource.
And the JFI-HOJ working committee, would like to tap on this opportunity, together with local partners for its sustainability goals.
Project Manager: Bro. Marvin Da Silva
Budget Required: $200,000.00
Status: Under Study
In conclusion, the bamboo farming industry in the Philippines holds great promise for sustainable economic development and environmental conservation. With the right investments, education, and infrastructure, the country can harness the full potential of bamboo as a valuable and renewable resource.
And the JFI-HOJ working committee, would like to tap on this opportunity, together with local partners for its sustainability goals.
Project Manager: Bro. Marvin Da Silva
Budget Required: $200,000.00
Status: Under Study
D. Aquilaria Project
The JFI would venture into a social enterprise together with a local partner.
AGARWOOD is a non-timber type of wood that is used for its sap or resin, highly valued in the perfume and scents industry. The tree is very rare and is found in the deepest parts of the forests of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. This Aquilaria tree species is also known as: Eagle wood, Aloeswood, Gaharu (Malay) Chen Xiang (Chinese), Jin-koh (Japanese), Oud (Arabic), Tram Huong (Vietnamese), karas (Indonesia-Malaysia), Mai kristina (Thai). And locally known in the Philippines as "Palisan", "Bari", "Lapnisan", "Mangod" or "Binukad". |
Agarwood is the resinous heartwood that grows inside Aquilaria trees. Due to overwhelming demand and extremely limited supply, Agarwood is by far the most valuable and expensive wood in the world. When Agarwood chips are grounded and distilled into oil, Agarwood oil, or "Oud oil" as it is officially known, is the key ingredient in some of the most luxurious and expensive fragrances in the world.
Top global fragrances in the industry have all incorporated Oud Oil within their premium fragrance lines.
Now, with over 1,000 new fragrances launched each year, the global fragrance market has reached a current market valuation of over USD 33 billion and growing.
This project is currently under study by JFI-HOJ and will be implemented as soon as the economic feasibility is done
Project Manager: Bro. Marvin Da Silva
Budget Required: $300,000.00
Status: Under Study
Top global fragrances in the industry have all incorporated Oud Oil within their premium fragrance lines.
Now, with over 1,000 new fragrances launched each year, the global fragrance market has reached a current market valuation of over USD 33 billion and growing.
This project is currently under study by JFI-HOJ and will be implemented as soon as the economic feasibility is done
Project Manager: Bro. Marvin Da Silva
Budget Required: $300,000.00
Status: Under Study
SUMMARY
We have established that helping forgotten peoples is not only a matter of moral and ethical responsibility but also has practical, societal, and global implications. It reflects our shared humanity and a commitment to creating a more just and equitable world for all.
Agriculture offers a multifaceted approach to addressing the needs of marginalized communities. It can provide food, income, education, and a sense of belonging, while also contributing to environmental sustainability and local development. By choosing agriculture to help marginalized people, we can address various aspects of their well-being and work towards creating more inclusive and equitable societies. |
The heart(s) of the mission of JFI and HOJ are very close to each other. We were created to make a significant difference in the quality of life of people often forgotten. We take care not only of the seniors and elderly, and persons with disability but especially those that have been abandoned by their families. We will be taking care also of poor, retired diocesan priests that often times are neglected as well. We will be providing employment to marginalized peoples with benefits, giving them the pride and dignity of a human being.
We dedicate ourselves in creating a positive change in the lives of the indigent, underserved, and marginalized individuals. We encourage people to share their time, talents and treasures in the service of the poor and the needy. But most of all, we inspire people of all walks of life, to love and care for one another which we believe is the greatest aspiration of the humanity.
We dedicate ourselves in creating a positive change in the lives of the indigent, underserved, and marginalized individuals. We encourage people to share their time, talents and treasures in the service of the poor and the needy. But most of all, we inspire people of all walks of life, to love and care for one another which we believe is the greatest aspiration of the humanity.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Josefheim Foundation Inc., together with the House of Joseph Foundation, Inc. wishes to thank the following persons that have made this document possible.
- Rev. Fr. Uldarico Dioquino, Spiritual leader
- Josefheim Foundation, Inc.
- e-mail address: [email protected]
- Bro. Rogelio Ignacio, President and Founder
- House of Joseph Foundation, Inc.
- e-mail address: [email protected]
- Bro. Marvin Da Silva, Operations Manager
- Josefheim Foundation, Inc.
- e-mail address: [email protected]
- Sis. Chen Collado, Homestead Project Manager
- Josefheim Foundation, Inc.
- e-mail address: [email protected]
- Sis. Krisel Getalada-Celino, Holy Rosary Leader
- House of Joseph Foundation, Inc
- e mail address: [email protected]