Only the Beginning!
People of Grace high school students, Quezon City. Philippines.
“The old has gone, the new has come!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17
I spent most of my second week in the Philippines at the People of Grace school and community center in Kamuning, Quezon City.
After all the work that went into building our new facility, I was taken aback when I learned that the old building on the other half of our property was being completely emptied, and its electrical service had been officially retired. It was bittersweet to learn that the last vestige of our old facility would soon be gone. So many memories were made within those walls, but it is also time to embrace a new season.
The old has gone. The new has come. But this is only the beginning!
It was wonderful to see every room in the new building fully operational and filled with students and staff. I had the privilege of spending time with two groups—our grade-school and high-school students. I loved teaching them, listening to their stories, and learning from them as well.
It brought me so much joy to hear that, in addition to pursuing their academic goals, the students are having fun at school and appreciating their new air-conditioned classrooms!
Completing this three-story building is an incredible accomplishment. However, some rooms have already needed to be divided into smaller spaces to accommodate all the classes and expanding needs of People of Grace.
Clearly, this new beginning is only the start!
Soon, we will begin preparing for Phases 2 and 3 of this important project. There is still much more work ahead—and many more lives waiting to be transformed.
Once again, thank you for partnering with us to empower children and young people through quality education in a loving, nurturing, and godly environment. We could not do this without you.
May God richly bless you!
STRIDE 2026: Moving Hope Forward
Join us for STRIDE, our very first fun run! Whether you’re an avid runner, a casual walker or simply looking for a fun morning with family and friends, your every step will help fund vital education and outreach in remote communities.
Ready to Stride?
Click on this link to register today: STRIDE 2026 Registration
Event Details
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Location: Surrey Bend Regional Park
Distances: Choose between a scenic 4K or 8K trail route.
Capacity: Registration is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early!
Ways You Can Make an Impact
Whether or not you’re able to participate in the run, there are many ways you can help move hope forward:
Register to run or walk.
Purchase a registration for someone else.
Become an event sponsor.
Donate prizes, snacks or refreshments.
Volunteer on race day (registration, refreshments, course support and more).
Invite family and friends to sponsor your run by making a donation to People of Grace International Foundation.
Fundraise With Us
If you’re participating, consider sharing this message with your community:
I’m participating in STRIDE 2026 on September 19 to help create brighter futures for children and youth in vulnerable communities. Every donation helps make a lasting impact. Join me in moving hope forward by supporting my fundraiser: https://bit.ly/gifttopogi
Please note: Registration fees and event purchases are non-refundable and are not eligible for a tax receipt. Donations made to People of Grace International Foundation are eligible for tax receipts in both Canada and the United States, where applicable.
With gratitude,
Buenavida Tupe
Founder
People of Grace International Foundation
peopleofgraceintl@gmail.com
Ways to Give
Online: bit.ly/pogigift
Cheques to ICMS: Please include a "separate" note – For People of Grace International
Contact: 604-240-5096 or peopleofgraceintl@gmail.com
Donations in the US and Canada are tax receipted by ICMS (International Christian Mission Services).
2026 Goals
People of Grace International complies with CRA/IRS guidelines for non-profits through our relationship with International Christian Mission Services (ICMS). ICMS has direction and control of the resources donated to ICMS on behalf of our ministry and holds us accountable for the work we do.
