Everything, nothing: A documentary on selfless volunteers and the struggles they encounter

• Main Authors: Barreiro, Raissa M., Bruckner, Gabrielle I., Casas, Celina B.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2017
• Subjects: Volunteers > Philippines; Voluntarism > Philippines; Matala, Cheryl
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/8652
• Institution: De La Salle University

Typically, documentaries revolving around the subject of volunteerism would opt to focus on those who are on the receiving end. However, most people overlook the many volunteers who selflessly dedicate their lives to an advocacy without expecting any gratification in return. These people endure their own personal hardships and challenges just to give their time to those whom they feel need it most. Everything, nothing is an observational documentary revolving around Cheryl Matala who falls under the aforementioned group of people. She is driven by her passion for helping others, most especially sickly, impoverished and abandoned children in Child Haus, 2KK and Asilo de San Vicente de Paul, respectively. The film documents Matala's routinely visits to these non-government organizations and it captures not only her interaction with the kids, but her insights and sentiments on her actions and the effects of volunteering on her as well. Matala is just one out of the many others who make an impact on the lives of children through means other than money or material things. It is hope that the material disproves the stereotype that only the upper class being capable of improving the lives of others, and that anyone who is willing to give their time and self to a good cause can make a difference in society.