US students volunteer in central Hue province
Eleven students from a college in the US journeyed to the central city of Hue back on May 20, to take part in a month long program of charity work in the region, according to event organizers.
The 11 American students, part of the Break Away Association at Johnson State College, had a chance to attend the kick-off ceremony of Vietnam’s Youth Volunteer Campaign, the Green Summer 2005, in Hue June 4, organizers said.
During their stay, the students joined local youth volunteers in cleaning out Nghinh Luong Dinh Park, dredging irrigation canals in Phu Thuong and Phu Vang commune, and teaching English to street children among other charity activities.
The American group held and English class with street children. “The kids like us a great deal; working closely with them has changed my view of your country and people”, said Chris Anderson, a third-year student at the JSC.
The special historical relationship between Vietnam and the US has brought them here, another student said.
“We read a lot about Vietnam before coming here. We’re visiting Vietnam in the spirit of friendship and peace”, said second year student Tara Duffy.
“These students help Vietnam wholeheartedly. Many of them had to work part-time jobs to collect money to help fund this trip,” said Ms. Pham Thi Yen Nhi, a JSC coordinator.
The student’s volunteer trip will run until the 20th of June, when they will return to the US.
Reported by Bui Ngoc Long – Translated by Ngoc Hanh.
Story from Thanh Nien News
Published: 08 June, 2005, 12:12:32 (GMT+7)
Copyright Thanh Nien News
