The annual Sports Car for a Cause event celebrated 5 years of philanthropic greatness on February 11th, 2024. The event, organized by Father Al’s Children’s Foundation, was held at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
The roaring engines and sleek designs of the sports cars weren’t just for show as participants rallied support for a noble cause – the Sisters of Mary Schools.
The Sisters of Mary Schools is an institution that was formed over 35 years ago to provide for children from very poor families. At present, the institution takes care of over 60,000 high school boys and girls in its four campuses, in Cavite and Cebu. The Sisters of Mary Schools offer food, clothing, shelter, medical and dental services, high school and technical education, all free of charge.
The event drew participants from the Sports Cars Club in the Philippines, who showcased their prized vehicles and also showed their unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. Their passion for sports cars was matched by their dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
This year’s event marked a significant milestone as it garnered the highest donation yet, thanks to the generosity of participants and sponsors alike. The proceeds from the event will benefit the education and living expenses of 140 students enrolled in Sisters of Mary Schools, providing them with a pathway to a brighter future.
At the heart of the event were the generous contributions of the Calvin Ayre Foundation, in collaboration with Ayre Group and nChain. Their philanthropic spirit shone brightly as they emerged as the top donor of the year. With a donation of $100,000, the Calvin Ayre Foundation’s support will directly fund the education and living expenses of 93 students at Sisters of Mary Schools for an entire year.
For the 93 students who will benefit directly from the Calvin Ayre Foundation’s generosity, it means more than just financial support—it signifies hope, opportunity, and the realization of their dreams.
During the event, attendees had the opportunity to hear from key figures involved in the cause, including the President of Father Al’s Children’s Foundation, Charlie Rufino. Rufino who is also the organizer of the event, expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event.
“It is truly a highlight of my year to see such a convergence of work, family, and passion for cars in support of the kids at Sisters of Mary. The school is 100% donor-funded, and it’s efforts like this that open doors for the rest of the year.”
“We could not be prouder to see an all-time-high in both donations collected and the number of cars that rolled in for the cause,” added Rufino.
Sr. Elena Belarmino, Superior General of Sisters of Mary Schools, also shared her heartfelt appreciation for the support extended to their students.
“Thank you so much to all our benefactors, through your generosity thousands of deserving high school students coming from underprivileged families are now crossing the bridge from poverty to self-sustainability.”
To top the afternoon off, guests were also treated to performances from some of the Philippines’ most notable performers, including Sitti Navarro Ramirez, Philippines’ queen of Bossa Nova; Rony Fortich, musical director; Tara Imperial, singer and advocate; Paulina Yeung, New York-based soprano singer; George Yang, founder and chairman of Golden Arches Development Corp as well as Sisters of both of the Mary Girlstown Handbell Choir and the Mary Boystown Choir.
In conclusion, the 5th Sports Car for a Cause charity event was not only a success and a celebration of automotive brilliance but also a testament to the profound impact that collective generosity and compassion can have on transforming lives. Through their support, participants and sponsors have truly made a difference, paving the way for a brighter future for the students of Sisters of Mary Schools.
L-R Stephanie Tower, nChain Country Head; Gen. Jose Mabanta, Calvin Ayre Foundation representative; H.E. Johann Brieger, Austrian Ambassador to the Philippines; H.E. Râduta Dana Matache, Ambassador of Romania to the Philippines; Sr. Elena Belarmino, Sisters of Mary Superior General; Charlie Rufino, FACFI President, and NEO President; H.M.A. Laure Beaufils, British Ambassador to the Philippines ; H.E. Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, German Ambassador to the Philippines; Randy Del Valle, Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Mobility; Philip Barnes, Country General Manager at The Ascott Limited Philippines