Marion Dela Pena - Youth Program Graduate and FAHSI Family Member!

"FAHSI is like my second family and second home.  When I first stepped into the center, I was automatically welcomed with open arms.  I started as a youth member and spent my summers and after school hours at the center.  Growing up in Long Island, I wasn’t exposed much to other Filipinos other than my family.  When I started to become a part of FAHSI not only did I meet
others that understood me and looked like me, I also become empowered and more knowledgeable about my Filipino Heritage. 

FAHSI like my family, has always been there for me and has taught me valuable life lessons.  As a high school intern I learned a lot of skills that I was able to utilize in college.  I enjoyed and excelled in the program so much that I received the Youth Leadership Award.  For the past few years, I worked as a Youth Coordinator and Administrative Coordinator for FAHSI.  As the Youth Coordinator I was able to pass down what I learned from past FAHSI programs to the present youth.  And as the Administrative Coordinator it was a pleasure to help the organization maintain it’s mission statement of serving the most vulnerable segments of the Filipino community of New York.  

Without FAHSI, I wouldn’t be the individual I am today!"

---