The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation held the 18th New Life Family Walkathon to give hope and love to the underprivileged. On May 21, 2017, more than 10,000 people, including Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and directors from the WeLoveU, and distinguished guests from all walks of life gathered at the Peace Square in Seoul World Cup Park. Diplomats from 13 countries, which included the ambassadors of Jordan, Spain, and Laos, and their families were present. This walkathon was hosted by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation and sponsored by Korea Ministry of Health and Welfare, Seoul Metropolitan Government, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Sejong General Hospital, and Korea Child Abuse Prevention Association.
Hope and Courage to the Underprivileged
The 18th New Life Family Walkathon was held to give hope and courage to the underprivileged suffering from diseases, poverty, and climate disasters, and global climate refugees. At the first part, Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah introduced an anecdote related to the African proverb, “If we go together, we go far,” and a traditional African saying, “Ubuntu,” and said that we should share happiness with all global neighbors so that no one would be left alone in the world.
Congratulatory speeches from the ambassadors to Korea followed. Climate refugees are another class of the socially underprivileged due to the lack of support for them from around the world. The ambassadors expressed their gratitude, saying the WeLoveU is helping the underprivileged with climate change response activities and tangible support. They also hoped that the WeLoveU’s activities would actively continue in the future to make the world a better place.
Steps to Help the Underprivileged
It was followed by a fund delivery ceremony to support the socially underprivileged class. Honorary Chairman Jang Gil-jah delivered living expenses and medical expenses to city officials for multicultural families and underprivileged families in Seoul and five cities in Gyeonggi Province. In addition, the WeLoveU gave support to provide public facilities and daily necessities to climate refugees and poverty-stricken residents in five overseas countries. City hall officials said they would do their best to deliver the WeLoveU’s sincerity to those in need who are in the blind spots of welfare.
The second part of the walkathon, which started with the energetic performance of the marching band, was filled with various events for families. The participants, who completed the walking course while talking and sharing stories with their families, all agreed that it was rewarding to be able to help neighbors in need with the easy task of walking. Various side events prepared with talent donations from university students also provided joyful memories.
Kim Seo-hyeon (from Bu-cheon), a middle school student, said with bright laughter, “At school, I was busy just filling up my volunteer hours, but I came to today’s walkathon on my own initiative. I felt very proud of myself as I was volunteering.” Seol Hyeon-ji, (from Gangseo-gu, Seoul), a member who came with her toddler who had just started walking, said, “I don’t have a lot of face-to-face time with my family, but today we made many memories together. It must have also been a meaningful time for my child as he was able to experience first-hand and learn that helping others in need is easy and enjoyable.”
Leaving No One Behind
“I am honored to attend this event to help the underprivileged in our society and underdeveloped countries. The prerequisite for eradicating poverty and hunger is environmental protection. Therefore, it is necessary to more actively protect the planet from climate change, preserve peace, and cultivate justice. I hope that all the activities promoted by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation to create a more peaceful and prosperous and just earth will spread throughout the world.” H.E. Gonzalo Ortiz the Ambassador of Spain to Korea
Diplomats in Korea, who explained the various problems of their own countries, praised the welfare activities of the WeLoveU, which dreams of a happy future for all 7 billion people. H.E. Khamsouay Keodalavong the Ambassador of Laos to Korea gave a message of support, saying, “Today is like a family day. I hope more families and more people will join this event from now. I too, will definitely be with you.” Having a joyful time with their family, participants were reminded of the value of family and ruminated on the meaning of the global family as well. The WeLoveU plans to continue to conduct various welfare activities around the global village so that no one will be left behind.
