- by Edwin I. Lariza and DZ P. Lariza (completed February 2013)
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to describe the growth and development of Katin-aran Center and its contribution to the community, as well as the University. It used the exploratory and descriptive design. A focus group discussion with pioneers and key players validated both primary and secondary data. Katin-aran Center emerged as a response to the needs of the Department of Social Work for more field placement for practicum students. Soon it grew with established development concepts, framework and effective methods in organizing communities. Because of its track record, the Center earned recognition and respect locally, nationally, and internationally. It has reached its peak when it became a separate foundation implementing multi-million empowerment projects. The impacts of the programs and services to personal lives of the Katin-aran members have been translated into community involvement in various forms and services. The following administrative factors are responsible for the development of the Center: institutional support provided by the University; participatory and integrated/ holistic development approach; and the charismatic qualities and management style of the pioneer director combined with highly committed staff. However, the same factors that sustained the operation of the Katin-aran Center created some organizational problems and issues, namely: ill defined structure, lack of a more definite framework for strategies, learning disability, and role confusion. Despite the problems it encountered and whatever negative experiences it has, there is no question that the Katin-aran Center has given us learnings on how to manage outreach projects.