Adamson highlights Vincentian roots with hosting of FamVin conference on slum dwellers
Date Posted: January 29, 2024 at 04:45 PM
Adamson University continues to manifest its commitment to fostering charity and social responsibility, this time serving as gracious hosts of the Vincentian Family (FamVin) Homeless Alliance's (FHA) International Conference on Slum Dwellers.
The event officially commenced today, January 29, at the Co Po Ty Hall of AdU's Dr. Carlos Tiu Building.
The theme, "Empowering Individuals and Communities: Vincentian Action in Slums,” aims to address the global issue of slum dwelling and discuss effective strategies to combat homelessness.
Newly installed Adamson President, Fr. Daniel Franklin E. Pilario, CM, inaugurated the proceedings, expressing gratitude to the participants and referring to them as missionaries dedicated to serving the poor and homeless.
"This house is your home for the rest of your stay," he said in jest, embodying the Filipino spirit of hospitality.
"As we welcome you to this conference, we do not only want to understand the plight of the homeless from different contexts in the world. We also want to seek solutions on how to end homelessness in our times so that we not only welcome the poor but also give the homeless a chance to welcome others in their homes one day."
Looking into the roots
Fr. Pilario's remarks were echoed in the answers of Depaul Group President and FHA Coordinator, Mr. Mark McGreevy OBE, during an interview with Adamson News as he provided insights into the conference and its significance, shedding light on the roots of the FHA and the program.
"In 2018, the heads of the Vincentian Family decided to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Saint Vincent de Paul by collectively addressing a global issue. The FamVin Homeless Alliance was born, focusing on practical initiatives like building houses worldwide and sharing knowledge through a series of conferences," he explained.
The current conference is already the third in the series, with the first two focusing on street homelessness, refugees, and internally displaced people.
"[The third conference looks] at the issue of slum dwellers – the largest population of homeless people across the world, amounting to some 1.2 billion -- so this conference is bringing together practitioners, Vincentians, policymakers, foundations – all here to discuss the best way to tackle slum dwelling," Sir McGreevy said.
He also explained his choice of the Philippines and Adamson University for the event, recognizing the positive projects initiated by the Vincentian Family in addressing slum living in the country and the proactive approach to poverty-related issues.
"Adamson is a place where you train the leaders of tomorrow for Filipino society – people who have power and influence," he said, commending the University for its commitment to outreach programs and scholarships focused on the poorest of the poor.
Being inspired to inspire
Sir McGreevy also encouraged the community to do even more, emphasizing that the institution plays a crucial role in shaping future leaders who can contribute to the service of Manila and the Philippines.
"When I last visited, it was interesting because I went to see a family living in the middle of the slums, and I asked them what is the one thing that I could do to help you to escape poverty, and they said educate one of our children, and this is what Adamson has, and I'm delighted that they do, so congratulations already.”
“You already provide a leadership. You're already inspirational. I think it's how do we amplify that and how do you make it known to the world, and hopefully this conference will make it known."
Sir McGreevy acknowledged Adamson University's leadership and inspiration, expressing optimism that the conference would amplify the University's values and efforts in addressing the needs of the poor.
As the conference continues, it is expected to foster collaboration, inspire change, and contribute to the ongoing global conversation on addressing homelessness, particularly in the context of slum dwellers.
Sessions will include plenary sessions on different topics on homelessness, trends in slum dwelling, FamVin's 13 Houses Campaign, and other related projects.
The three-day event also features numerous workshops, including group sessions and Q&A opportunities, and visits to the Vincentian Philippine projects with slum dwellers to continue the flow and exchange of ideas among the participants.
The event will officially conclude this January 31 through a closing mass led by Congregation of the Mission Vicar General Fr. Gregorio Bañaga, Jr., CM and Fr. Pilario.
