The Picture This Story

Jason and I (Victoria) have explored Southeast Asia a few times now, but something changed after a short visit to the Philippines in 2013 following Typhoon Yolanda.  We decided to bring books, arts supplies, and a lot of love. Our goal was to find underprivileged children along our journey in hopes we could brighten up their day with simple acts of kindness. The experience was beyond our expectations; we were invited into homes to share meals and we learned about each other's cultures. We befriended local guides that took us into these villages, some quite far and difficult to reach. The people from these communities seemed excited to see foreigners care about their culture and their children. To put it simply, it was a life-changing trip. Their huge smiles, sparkling eyes, and contagious laughter left an imprint on us. Without a doubt, we did not return home the same two people; our hearts were changed forever.

When we returned home to America, we kept thinking about two specific communities with which we hoped to deepen our friendship, as well as provide some of their basic needs. One community (barangay) a small fishing village in the Philippines called Lajala, and the other, a Hmong Hill tribe that lived in the mountains of Laos. 

So we pictured this, what if we helped kids from America get to know these amazing people? What if they could express themselves through drawing encouraging pictures and and simple, handwritten notes? This would provide a taste for travel and break down cultural barriers as they befriend their new pal on the other side of the world. We believe these friendships will be an opportunity to cultivate compassion in the hearts of American youth. In return, this friendship would bring joy, hope, encouragement and education to underprivileged kids around the world. Simply put, when you’re living in a simple bamboo hut, a colorful drawing from a caring friend could mean so much. 

We desire the next generation to live with a deep compassion for others. A generation who believes no matter how different we are, or what background we come from, we are all God's children, and we need to begin sharing a radical love for our brothers and sisters around the world.

Our dream is for children in our program to grow up with seeds of compassion and love planted in their hearts.

Thank you for taking the time to hear our vision; we hope our dream will be yours too!