From Danville to Vietnam: How One Student is Stepping up to Help

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By Sean Grame, Resident since 2001, student at The Athenian School

One cannot truly understand how privileged they are until they see people without it. From an early age my grandfather used to show me photos of his visits to Kon Tum, a city that is home to seven unique orphanages. He did business overseas in Vietnam but integrated time into every trip to visit the children. His passion and commitment rubbed off on me, inspiring me help the Vietnamese children, to give them opportunities. Shortly after, grandfather took me to the orphanages and that trip solidified my passion to help these children. Fast forward five years and I have visited Vietnam three times, joined the board of a non-profit raising money for these children, and involved my community in any way I could.

During my trips to Vietnam my perspective on privilege completely shifted. Prior to visiting Vietnam, I had not traveled to third world countries, so I did not understand the polar contrast between my life and theirs. Arriving at the orphanages and seeing hundreds of children living in poverty, yet with smiles from ear to ear, taught me that material items do not determine happiness, rather only intrinsic values. These trips also instilled in me that I can make a positive difference, whether it be fundraising at school, collecting items to take there, or simply socializing with the children.

Look at those smiling faces!

Friends of Vinh Son, the non-profit that I work for, has allowed me to do this. With the help of my mentor, Vietnam war veteran Patrick Leary, I have been able to raise awareness for the cause through social media by posting YouTube videos, updating the Facebook page daily, and promoting our website.

Sean and his grandfather share a moment

Additionally, I have been able to involve my friends in Friends of Vinh Son. Some of my close friends have aided me in organizing bake sales at school, coordinating events, and helping me edit videos. In the near future, I plan on arranging a trip for students at my school to visit the Vinh Son orphanages and experience the beauty that every single child there radiates. The kids in Vietnam have given me a purpose, regardless of how easy or tough my Danville life is, I know that they appreciate everything they have; they are my inspiration.

Check out FVSO @ https://www. friendsofvso.org