ROLLY

We met young Rolly from Pier 4 … he is a member and leader of the G Unit, the young dance group from Pier 4 … we were so struck by these young boys … their living conditions are truly horrific … they are surrounded by dark influences in their lives and yet they can be committed and dedicated to their life of dance.

Their discipline and sheer guts and determination are extremely impressive. As we learnt more about the boys we were immediately struck by their heart and fight to be different.

Rolly’s mother died from Leukemia when he was only 7 years of age. His father soon took up with another lady but sadly she didn’t like Rolly and refused to have him the house. Rolly tried to be different from all those around him … he determined that he was going to finish school and put himself through college, however after working hard and trying to pay his own way within five months there just weren’t enough hours in the day to both study and work nor pesos in his bank account to finish his course. He was bitterly disappointed but decided that he will have to work harder to save to go to college again … but things were harder and harder for Rolly, he was staying with his uncle on another island but he was not treated well there and so he was forced to return to Pier 4, where he had no option but to sleep on a neighbors outdoor bench … in the open, and of course when it rained … he got wet.

Our heart went out to Rolly … we could see his tremendous potential and determination to change his circumstances. During our youth camp he was deeply touched by the friendship and love that he experienced … and he wept and wept as that love touched his heart and melted away years of hurt and rejection… soon after this we invited Rolly to live in our home at the mission where he will train to drive (one of our greatest needs) and we have a vision to send him back to college to complete his studies … this young man has a great future …

Rolly has started his driving lessons already and has been a great help with caring Liza from room to room …