Thomas Merton once said, “To be grateful is to recognize the love of God in everything.” And if there’s one thing that ANCOP alumna Chelsey Rose Ruales learned from being a sponsored student, it’s to see everything as divine providence.
The multi-awarded financial management graduate thanked her ANCOP family in a heartfelt post on social media after graduation in May 2025, saying: ”…(T)his scholarship was a lifeline, significantly easing the financial burden.
This momentous accomplishment is a direct result of your incredible generosity and commitment.
You have given me the most incredible part of my journey, the chance to pursue my education and build a brighter future…I am forever grateful..”
‘A beacon of hope’
A sponsored student of CFC ANCOP’s flagship program the Educational Sponsorship Program (ESP), Chelsey had been supported by donors both in Canada and New Zealand from grade 1 all the way till college.
She thanked her Canada sponsor for the support, calling it “a beacon of hope”, which fueled her ambition and gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams.
Meanwhile, the Bato Institute of Science and Technology graduate, who received awards for both academic excellence and for outstanding service and leadership, did not forget her New Zealand-based sponsor.
In her message, she specifically mentioned her New Zealand donor saying, “Thank you for your invaluable support during my first four years of college. Your contribution made a profound difference, allowing me to focus on my studies without the crushing weight of financial worry.”
Thanking the PIT
It is clear that Chelsey, an active member of CFC – Youth for Christ, benefited from the formation that all sponsored students undergo.
She served in her school’s supreme student council during her sophomore year.
Her sweetest message, however, was reserved for Violeta Otadoy and Noberta Ruales Espano, members of the ANCOP Program Implementing Team, which had the closest and most regular contact with Chelsey during her time as a sponsored student. She said, “…(T)hank you for your unwavering guidance, wise advice, and constant support to all sponsored students. Your dedication and belief in us have been instrumental in our success.”
22-year old Chelsey remains active in the CFC community.
