With a deep commitment to serving beyond the academic sphere, UP IECEP is honored to announce the much-anticipated return of its annual charity and outreach event, “IECEP Cares,” which will be held on January 18, 2025. This event marks a significant milestone as the first “IECEP Cares” gathering since its five-year hiatus due to the global pandemic. The return of this cherished initiative reflects UP IECEP’s dedication to community involvement, focusing on providing meaningful support to vulnerable children in need. This year’s theme, “Empowering Connections, llluminating Hearts,” serves as a light of hope and compassion as we rekindle the spirit of service within our community. IECEP Cares 2025 is dedicated to reaching out to the abandoned, neglected, and surrendered children at House of Refuge Foundation, Inc., located in Quezon City.
For over a decade, IECEP Cares has been more than just an outreach event; it has been a movement of solidarity where members of UP IECEP have a valuable opportunity to unite, strengthen bonds within the organization, and contribute to a meaningful cause. This year’s iteration carries the profound mission of fostering meaningful connections and shining a light on the lives of children, bringing them joy, comfort, and hope by offering a memorable day filled with interactive activities and heartfelt connections. By engaging in this compassionate initiative, UP IECEP members reaffirm their commitment to the principles of empathy, service, and social responsibility.
For a day of joy and connection, IECEP Cares 2025 is proud to support the mission of House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. (HORFI). Founded in 1986, HORFI began as a humble halfway house dedicated to supporting street children in need of a safe place to stay. As a fully licensed child-care institution, registered and accredited by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), HORFI has provided life-changing shelter, compassionate care, and essential services to children who have faced abandonment, neglect, or abuse. Over the years, HORFI has opened its doors to more than 1,000 children, offering them the resources and stability they need to rebuild their lives.
HORFI’s programs go beyond just offering shelter; they are meticulously designed to foster a stable and nurturing environment where each child has access to education, healthcare, and crucial emotional support. By addressing both the urgent and long-term needs of these children, HORFI empowers them to heal, grow, and envision a life filled with promise. With a strong commitment to helping children overcome trauma, HORFI provides more than just a temporary home—it offers a path toward independence and success, building a foundation for each child’s brighter future.
Through the continued generosity of donors, the collaborative efforts of community partners, and the dedication of its compassionate staff, HORFI remains a vital sanctuary for vulnerable children in the Philippines. With each day, it works tirelessly to break cycles of neglect, fostering resilience and creating opportunities for self-reliance and empowerment. HORFI’s unwavering mission is to give every child the chance to reclaim their future with hope and confidence.
