Friends of Project Renew
When I first visited Vietnam in 2016, I wasn't fully aware of the scale of the problem with unexploded ordnances (UXOs). However, learning about them during that trip stuck with me long after I left. Now, having returned to Vietnam to live, it felt important not just to appreciate the country, but to actively contribute in some way.
As an American living here, I believe we have a responsibility to help address the legacy we've left behind. Many unexploded bombs and mines still threaten daily life in parts of the country, creating danger for children playing outdoors and farmers working their fields. The continued impact of Agent Orange also affects communities, leaving generations coping with its devastating consequences.
After careful research, I chose to support Friends of Project Renew because of their tangible, comprehensive approach. Project Renew actively clears mines and explosives, educates communities to prevent accidents, and offers crucial assistance to affected families. They also focus on addressing the lingering effects of Agent Orange and providing prosthetic limbs to survivors.
Through my photography, I aim to showcase the everyday lives of Vietnamese people—the landscapes, bustling markets, and lively streets. My goal is to foster understanding back in the States, highlighting the resilience and warmth of the Vietnamese people. Despite historical tensions, I've found that the Vietnamese bear no ill will toward Americans, focusing instead on building a peaceful future.
Currently, my contributions to Friends of Project Renew come from photographic print sales. Specifically, I'm dedicating 10% of total profits to Project Renew, alongside another 10% to Team Gleason (an organization assisting individuals diagnosed with ALS). Every print sold directly supports these important causes.
In the future, I may create targeted campaigns or challenges to enhance these efforts, but for now, the concept is straightforward: purchase a print, support meaningful change, and enjoy something real and impactful on your wall.
If you'd prefer, you can donate directly to Friends of Project Renew via their official donation page here. Every contribution, no matter the size, can truly make a difference.
Thank you for reading and for your support.
Friends of Project Renew Donation Page