Enjoy this heartwarming letter from Y Khuynh, a student from Vinh Son 2 who is mid-way through a four year Social Work major at Kon Tum Community College. Learn about what her social work class has been doing at the local care center and her reflections on donating her time to those in need.

Dear Friends of VSO,

First, I would like to send you my sincere thanks and appreciation. I am truly grateful for the support and compassion you have given me, and all the children of VSO over the years. Because of your sponsorship, I have the opportunity to attend Kon Tum Community College and participate in meaningful volunteer activities that help us to grow both in awareness and in spirit.

The VSO nuns together with the seminary teachers organized a day of activities and games at Vinh Son 2. These activities not only brought us together to laugh and play, but also taught us about the importance of supporting and giving back to the community. Our class K6C Social Work is allowing us to put our learnings into practice at Kon Tum Province Social Protection Center, just 5km from school, where we take care of the elderly, disabled, and orphans. Our teacher divided the class into three groups and I was in group 3 which was assigned to helping the elderly at the Protection Center. Here, with guidance from the caregivers, we performed activities such as: massaging the elderly's hands and feet, sweeping and mopping the house, taking care of the living space, gardening, and probably most important, simply sitting and chatting with the elderly at the center and enjoying each other's company. Although the time was not long, each day at the Center was a wonderful lesson about compassion, humility and the importance of bringing joy to others, especially those who are lonely and in need of love.

On our last day of visiting the center, our group coordinated a small party. Although simple, the atmosphere that day was really warm and touching. The bright eyes and gentle smiles of the elderly were a great gift to us, and reassurance that we were making a difference. What I have learned through this experience is invaluable, and I will continue to live a kinder and more compassionate life because of it.

Once again, I would like to thank the FVSO Association, who, although far away, always follow and support us with all their hearts. I vow to try to live well, study well and spread the values of love that the Association is planting every day everywhere.

I wish the Association good health, peace and continue to be a bridge connecting love between beautiful hearts.

-Y Khuynh