The Kapwa Project is a grassroots community initiative in Northeast Seattle that brings neighbors together through mutual aid, shared learning, and collective care. "Kapwa" is an indigenous Filipino value that means "shared self" — the recognition that we are all interconnected.
I started The Kapwa Project because I believe marginalized children and families deserve more than what institutions have been willing to give them. I've also seen what happens when community members just start showing up for each other — so that's what we do. We pack food kits, connect at park playdates, swap clothes, share resources, and make space for young people to use their voices. The actions aren’t big, but they’re meaningful, and it's slowly building something I care deeply about: a culture of collective care, solidarity, and shared responsibility.
If you know me, you know I'm always dreamin' and schemin'. Where do I hope this goes? I envision a community youth and family center where:
- Every child has access to play, create, learn, and lead
- Families can work, relax, and connect with neighbors
- Community members have space to host craft markets, workshops, cultural performances, mutual aid events, and educational teach-ins
Of course, we're not there yet; I'm just manifesting it into the world —but this $1,000 seed fund will go directly toward supplies and resources (e.g. snacks for volunteers, food/hygiene kits, art supplies, handouts, etc.) for upcoming mutual aid and community building events as The Kapwa Project grows and works toward more sustainable funding.
Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. Thank you for your support and for believing in this dream of mine! Follow @thekapwaproject on Instagram for updates.
AC
