At the end of Phase 2 of our project in Xieng Khouang, we took some time to evaluate our successes.

This involved visiting many communities and reflecting with villagers about the benefits of their project activities. We heard exciting stories about the changes taking place in different communities. Here is a snippet from one of those discussions.

This past year [Tong Lee] received an award for being the most active volunteer in the area.

Mr. Tong Lee and his wife have five children. Before World Renew began working in their village, the Tongs were one of the poorest families there, often doing without clothing for the children to wear. Tong Lee was one of the first people in their village to sign up for a “piglets for the poor” activity. He received two pigs, promising to pay for them both by passing on piglets to another poor family identified by the Village Development Committee.

Step by step, with income from selling piglets from several litters, the family made improvements. Over time they were able to purchase two cows, corn seeds, a motorbike, and a solar lamp. It was an exciting day when Tong Lee shared the gift he received with another family who can now begin a similar process to improve their living situation.

Tong Lee has become an active member of the community, including village veterinarian and later, a Village Health Worker. This past year he received an award for being the most active volunteer in the area.

Blessings in this coming year, 

Mike Fennema

Country Consultant
World Renew Laos