In March 2024, Global Prevention & Health Foundation board members Eva Z-Sipos, My Linh, and Fruzsina Tasi traveled to Hue, Vietnam, for a visit that would become the foundation of our organization's community outreach programs. At Duc Son Pagoda Orphanage, we spent precious time with children who reminded us why we started this foundation in the first place.
Walking through the peaceful grounds of Duc Son Pagoda, we were greeted by the warm smiles of children and the gentle wisdom of the monks who dedicate their lives to caring for these young ones. What started as a visit quickly became an exchange of joy, laughter, and genuine human connection that transcended language and cultural barriers.
We played games with the children, watched them during their free time, and witnessed the beautiful simplicity of their daily routines—from tidy bookshelves filled with well-loved books to small shoes lined up carefully outside their bedrooms. Every detail told a story of children being cared for with love and respect, yet also revealed the practical needs that could help them thrive even more.
Our most meaningful moments came during discussions with the monks about the orphanage's needs and future plans. We learned about the children's educational aspirations, their need for learning materials, and the importance of play and creative activities in their development. These conversations weren't just informative—they were transformative, shaping our understanding of how GPHF could make the most meaningful impact.
The children taught us something equally important: that joy, resilience, and hope flourish even in challenging circumstances. Their laughter during playtime, their care for one another, and their curiosity about the world reminded us that small acts of support can create profound ripples of positive change.
One of the most touching observations was watching the children take care of each other—older children helping younger ones, friends sharing and playing together, and a genuine sense of community that embodied the values we hold dear at GPHF. This spirit of compassion and mutual support is exactly what we hope to nurture through our programs.
As we waved goodbye to the children and monks, we weren't just leaving—we were planting seeds for a long-term partnership. The visit confirmed our commitment to launching The Giving Nest program, which will provide ongoing support to Duc Son Pagoda Orphanage through educational materials, books, toys, and essential resources that help these children build hopeful futures.
Our March 2024 visit was just the beginning. We're now planning our return in November 2025 with tangible resources and expanded programs that will benefit not only the orphanage but also children's cancer wards in Hue and Ho Chi Minh City. The relationships we built, the needs we identified, and the joy we shared have become the blueprint for GPHF's community impact strategy.
"This visit wasn't just about what we could give—it was about what we could learn. The children and monks at Duc Son Pagoda taught us about resilience, community, and the power of simple joys. We left Vietnam with full hearts and a clear vision for how GPHF can make a lasting difference." — Fruzsina Tasi, Board Member & Secretary
