My name is Will Doyle the owner of Sanctuary, and I recently had the privilege of meeting a remarkable man named Victor during my visit to Boracay in the Philippines. Victor works as a line cook at a local Greek restaurant and harbors a dream of one day owning his own restaurant.

Our conversations over a couple of days revealed his sincere dedication to his family and unwavering determination.

Victor extended a heartfelt invitation to his home, and what I witnessed there left me deeply moved. His family's living conditions are incredibly challenging, to say the least. Their dwelling, if it can even be called that, consists of cement and mesh walls, and a corrugated roof. It's a cramped space, roughly 1/3 the size of the bar at Sanctuary, with a dirt floor and minimal furniture consisting of only a couple of plastic chairs. The upstairs, accessible only by a ladder, serves as the sleeping quarters. Shockingly, the supports for the second floor are broken, there are holes in the roof, and I noticed a hole in the 2nd floor plywood floor. Victor shares this small space with ten other family members, all of whom he is responsible for feeding, clothing, and caring for. They have no bank account and live paycheck to paycheck.

What struck me most during my visit was the family's incredible spirit. Despite their dire living conditions, they radiated happiness and a deep sense of unity. It was a beautiful experience to witness their unwavering love and support for each other.

In an effort to get to know the family better, I invited Victor's family to my home for a dinner I would prepare. Much to my surprise, twenty family members gathered, all related and all brimming with happiness and love. We enjoyed a wonderful evening, sharing stories and laughter. At the end of the night, the older men volunteered to take care of the little ones, an act of care rarely seen there, while the young adults and women joined me for a night of dancing at a club.

During our time together, I learned of Victor's need to raise approximately $1500 USD to hire a contractor to repair their home. I am determined to help Victor and his family by raising funds to make their living conditions safer and more comfortable. With just $2500, we can also help him furnish his house and we can make a significant difference in their lives.

Additionally, I met Victor's niece, Analiza, a young woman of just 19 years who has faced unimaginable challenges. Her family couldn't afford to support her education, leading her to drop out after the fourth grade. She began working at a massage parlor at the tender age of 13, and it's likely that she was exploited at such a young age. She became a mother at 17 and, only to tragically lose her child last July due to lack of resources. She welcomed her second child this past April and was in an abusive relationship until recently.

I was able to reunite Analiza with her mother and youngest sister, bringing them to safety away from her abusive situation. They will soon be living with her other four sisters in Davao. Any funds raised beyond the initial $2500 and up to $5000 will go toward supporting Analiza and her mother as they heal and rebuild their lives.

I have set the ask for $10,000 even though I don’t have any expectations that we will hit that ceiling. Any money raised above $5000 will be split evenly between Victor and Analiza.

To show my commitment, I will personally match up to 20% (up to $2000) of any donations we receive.

Please consider joining me in making a profound impact on these wonderful people who have so little but have endured so much. Your contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in their lives.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and generosity.

Will Doyle