Hung Manh Ha\'s Education Fund

Here I am sitting with Hung and his family on my last day in Vietnam, July 2009.

I spent July 2009 in Hanoi and Hai Phong doing volunteer teaching through Uniterra and WUSC. Hung was assigned to be my translator and it didn't take me long to realize I had been dealt a lucky card. .

Not only did Hung translate my class's everyday "“ he took the time to learn the subject matter, to study it and to understand it. He worked 10 to 11 hours every day. Whether I needed a tour guide, tickets to a play, a pizza or a train ticket; Hung happily took care of it. He gave me lectures on how to travel safely in Vietnam. When I travelled alone Hung checked on me every day via cell phone. Always starting the conversation: "Miss Crystal, did you manage to have a good breakfast?" Those of you who know me, know how important food is to me!

Most of Hung's English was learned from action movies like Batman and Indiana Jones. I cannot tell you how delightful our conversations were.  I so enjoyed hearing about Hung's family, his friends and his life in Vietnam. Imagine my surprise when I found out Hung was a volunteer. To have that type of dedication (without the motivation of a paycheck) is inspiring to say the least!

Hung's greatest desire is to come to Canada to study. Having this opportunity would completely change Hung's life. By being immersed in English, Hung's language skills will improve ten fold. It would greatly increase his employment opportunities upon returning to Vietnam.

I remember thinking wow: great goal but the chances of that happening are about 1 in a million. I really hope someone helps him with that someday. Even as I formed the thought I began to feel ashamed of myself. Why couldn't I help Hung?

Tuition, health insurance and books will total about $7500.

I'm thinking "little snow, big snow." If 1500 people make a $5 donation we'd be set!

If you'd like to make a donation, please consider doing so in honor of someone who has helped you with your education, a teacher, a family member, a friend, or a coach.

Thank you for helping make a huge difference in Hung's life!