The late Doña Consuelo Zobel Alger
The Consuelo Foundation may well be one of the most genuine untold charity stories in the Philippines.
For over 25 years, the foundation has been quietly helping those in need, particularly children, women and families in the Philippines and Hawaii.
Untold stories like Consuelo Foundation’s are interesting in that it projects a true sense of wisdom. Both the story and its works have stood the test of time; a testament to the purity of the vision and passion of one woman.
It began in 1987 when wealthy heiress Doña Consuelo Zobel Alger was approached by Child and Family Service Philippines (CFSPI) head Patti Lyons for funding. Consuelo eventually became CFSPI’s main benefactress, which later on opened a residential center for street children in Baguio City.
There Doña Consuelo found her inspiration. Having no children of her own, it was the children supported by her program that she cared for as her children. In 1988, she created her own private foundation, the Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation to improve the quality life of disadvantaged children, women and families in the Philippines and Hawaii.
When Doña Consuelo passed away in 1992, her endowment was given to the foundation where it was invested. This is where her legacy lives on. Today, the earnings from the investments continue to sustain the organization. Since its inception, the foundation has given over $75 million (P3 billion) to help her cause.
It is this quiet yet highly involved foundation that has quietly given throughout its 25 years devoid of corporate or political motives that illustrates a true sense of charity. A pure mission to give to those in need may explain how it has continued to give for 25 years, even after Consuelo’s life. It’s a testament that genuine and sincerity stands the test of time, a true legacy that can be passed on for generations.