The child has more love in their heart
Brayán and his sponsor got to spend time together during P.E. last April
The child has more love in their heart
Henry is in his final year as a student at Escuela Integrada. As he looks forward to graduation in November, he would not have made it this far without a sponsor to support his education.
“It’s very beautiful [to have a sponsor] because there is someone who is there for each one of us,” he said. “There is someone who will always be there for me.”
When we asked students about what it means to have a sponsor, they jumped at the opportunity to tell us about their “padrino” (godparent), “champion”, “cheerleader,” “someone who wants the best for them,” and “a person who believes in their education.”
“It means having a special person who wants to support you in your studies and in everything you do, and who wants to see you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself,” said Brayán, who is in eighth grade.
GRACES Sponsorship Program is unique in how a relationship grows between the child and sponsor. Through letters, zoom calls, updates and the occasional in-person visit in Guatemala, a friendship blossoms.
Sponsorship helps cover the cost of education and meals at Escuela Integrada, but ultimately gives students a renewed hope in the potential of their lives. With someone walking alongside them in prayer and friendship they begin to believe that they can break the cycle of poverty for their families.
“For me, to have a sponsor is to have someone to accompany me and someone who believes in my life,” said Elena, who is nine years old. “When you have a sponsor—more than the gifts—the child has more love in their heart.”
This summer, GRACES has a goal to connect 50 new sponsors with students at the school. Our sponsors provide support and encouragement for students to continue their education despite the obstacles they face in their everyday lives.
*New this year, you can invite a friend to sponsor a student. Do you know someone who could provide hope for a child at Escuela Integrada? We have 19 children waiting for someone to walk alongside them in their education.
To refer a friend to the Sponsorship Program, simply forward this email or fill out the “Invite a friend” form. If you submit a friend’s name, they will receive additional information about the program via email or text. This is a no-pressure opportunity to learn more about the program. We promise no phony gimmicks and no sales calls! Plus, anyone who submits a name will receive a limited edition “I Supported the Summer of Sponsorships” sticker!
The Summer of Sponsorships runs through August 15. Will you help us connect 50 new sponsors?
[button url=”https://wearegraces.org/sponsor” text=”Learn more”]
Save the dates! Supporters Gathering returns November 2-6
GRACES’ Supporters Gathering will take place November 2-6 in Antigua, Guatemala. We invite all supporters, sponsors and friends to join us for this annual event where we will celebrate three graduation ceremonies (kindergarten, 6th and 9th grade), engage in lively discussions about the organization and participate in home visits and cultural activities.
The total trip cost and additional details will be announced soon. To be the first to find out or if you already know you are coming, please fill out the Supporters Gathering Interest Form.
Ready to book your flights? We recommend arriving in time for dinner on Monday, Nov. 2 and departing on Friday, Nov. 6, midday or later.
It’s a fantastic time to meet other supporters and share in the joy of the students’ academic accomplishments. We hope you will consider joining us this November!
New merch added to GRACES store!
You can now order a packable rain jacket, soft shell jacket or all-weather 3-in-1 jacket from the GRACES merch store! These waterproof options are great for summer travel during the rainy season (hint, hint… Guatemala!). Choose from white, purple or gray options.
Heavy duty jackets and beanies are also available as you look toward cooler temperatures come fall and winter. Plus, with each purchase, GRACES will receive a $5 donation!
Items are available in men’s clothing, women’s clothing, youth apparel and accessories. The store will close at the end of each month to process orders, and orders will ship directly to your home address.
Visit the GRACES Store for your rainy season needs today!
June 13-20: FMC Family Vision Trip
June 22-29: Mid-year Vacation at Escuela Integrada
June 25: Day of the Teacher in Guatemala
June 28-July 5: FMC Youth Group Vision Trip
*Save the Dates* November 2-6: Supporters Gathering in Guatemala!