Each
year Pista Sa Nayon recognizes a couple within the local Filipino American
community for their service and dedication. This year Pista is proud to honor
Josie and Erlando Leyva as Hermano and Hermana Mayor for the 2005 festival.
Actively engaged in a variety of activities, it is without hesitation that Josie and Erlando share their time, talents and resources with countless Filipino American organizations and causes. Quite simply they recognize the value of service, especially to those in need, and the benefits that are reaped for the entire community. Participating in a variety of capacities on behalf of numerous organizations and causes, Erlando and Josie are leaders who exemplify the spirit of community and Pista.
“Volunteerism has a large and active role in whatever happens in our community,” said Erlando and Josie. “We have a stake in the development of the community we live in. It is vital that volunteers take an active role in advancing the development and progress in our community. We have the ability to see the big picture as well as the small picture of what is happing in our surroundings.”
After arriving in the United States their involvement in the community initially began as their children participated in activities sponsored by FYA. Over the years their involvement has grown, including their current involvement with Pista.
A finance manager for the City of Seattle, Erlando has served as past president of the Filipino-American Association of Certified Public Accountants and past secretary of the Fil-Am Ministry of St. Louise. Josie, a licensed real estate agent and retired senior representative for the City of Seattle, has served as past president of the National Council of Philippine, American, Canadian Accountants, Auxiliary; past president of the Fil-Am Ministry of St. Louise; and past vice-chairperson of the St. Louise Parish Council.
Their combined list of accomplishments is evidence of how much a part of their lives volunteerism is. Honored as Parents of the Year for 1999-2000 by the Filipino Community of Seattle, the awards committee noted their extensive volunteer service.
“One should extend a helping hand or assistance to anyone, be it an individual or an organization to help and be a part of something good,” said Erlando and Josie. “It is our mission to share whatever we have with those who have less, whether it is in material, spiritual or other needs.”
Their volunteerism within the community speaks volumes of their desire to make a difference and enhance lives. As they take actives role in the development of the community they are also working to ensure Filipino culture and heritage is preserved for future generations through their support of Pista.
“We can perpetuate our culture with events like Pista where we showcase performances such as dances, food and other delicacies,” said Erlando and Josie. “This will give Americans and most especially second generation Filipinos a taste of what Pista is really about.”
As they participate in the 16th year anniversary of Pista, they look forward to joining the community in a showcase of culture and traditions. In their roles as Hermano and Hermana Mayor, Erlando and Josie are bringing something new to the festival, a silent auction with all proceeds going to Pista.
“We feel honored to have been chosen as Hermano and Hermana Mayor for this year’s Pista Sa Nayon,” said Erlando and Josie. “There are other couples who are equally if not more deserving than us to be Hermano and Hermana Mayor.”
Erlando and Josie Leyva are the Hermano and Hermana Mayor for Pista Sa Nayon 2005. Erlando’s and Josie’s leadership and ongoing support of Pista and the local Filipino American community is to be applauded. Pista thanks Erlando and Josie for helping to make this year’s festival a success.
Written by Cindy Cawaling