MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR

WHAT ACTIVITIES DOES YOUR GROUP DO?

We participate in the Jacksonville Cleanup that occurs every year, and we have even adopted our own street, General Samuels Road, and have a scheduled cleanup. Some members support St. Jude Catholic Church with Catholic-youth fundraising. The Fil-Am Dance Group performs at nursing homes, retirement centers, Asian Pacific Celebrations at the Little Rock Air Force Base and Camp Robinson, and International Fest in Jacksonville. We also raise money for landslide victims in the Philippines, and we make monetary contributions to Dorcas House.

WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE PART OF THE FILIPINO-AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF JACKSONVILLE?

It allows me to positively contribute to two great cultures — the Filipino culture and the American culture. Plus, being so far from home, being around other Filipinos makes it feel just a little like home. America is our home now, but we still have a soft spot for our home in the Philippines. There’s a lot of positivity and great networking [opportunities] to meet new friends and family.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE JACKSONVILLE’S HIDDEN GEMS?

Splash Zone. It is a wonderful water park for children and families. The walking path near the police station is a great place for picnics. Jacksonville Community Center is my favorite place because it caters to different generations with exercises, swimming, arts, crafts, etc., and I love the service and friendly atmosphere.

WHAT SIGHTS AND SOUNDS WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO JACKSONVILLE VISITORS?

I would recommend that everyone visit the Jacksonville Museum of Military History. Jacksonville and the military have a very strong and close relationship that goes back decades.

WHY IS JACKSONVILLE A GOOD PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY?

The people here are so friendly, and there does not seem to be a lot of crime . ... We have the best library around.