School News

Shortest Summer Break!

Due to Covid-19, the schools in Vietnam closed in late January and early February. Vietnam quickly closed borders and worked to control the virus. Within months, the transmission rates fell to some of the‘lowest reported levels in the world. In May, school resumed and they completed the 2019-20 school year at the end of July. 

During the closure, the school staff, and some older students worked to distribute food to students and others in the communities they serve. As conditions improved some Anh Linh students spent time creating pretty plants out of clay to sell to raise funds and keep them occupied. The plants were a hit, with swift sales. While the staff was busy, they also took some time to rest and make music. 

The plan was to reopen the schools in August, but a Covid-19 outbreak in the Central city of DaNang in late July, pushed back the start date to September. Per the government's reporting the outbreak resulted in several deaths, but is now under control. We are happy to report the Viet Anh Primary school is set to open in early September. 

So after the shortest summer break, of about six weeks, the teachers and children are excited to start the new school year. We are happy to see the children return to schools with great supports in place for their well-being -- food, education, and a caring environment for them to thrive. 

Yearning to recreate the fun of last year's 1st Annual Bridges to Learning Golf Tournament, the board researched and discussed options to recreate the magic. However, the decision was made to postpone the 2nd Annual tournament until next year. While disappointed, we look forward to healthier days when we all can gather and hit the links for the kids. 

In the same vein, the 2020 Wine Tasting was postponed as well. The logistics of serving wine and food, let alone arranging tables to accommodate "social bubbles"  precluded the event. So, as other large events are being postponed, we are being socially responsible too... However, we are looking forward to seeing you next year. Wine does get better with age, right?

Fortunately, B2L is in a position financially to withstand some of the blow to fundraising, and continue support the schools. Student sponsorship contributions continue to flow to the school, and we are fulfilling other commitments through reserved funds.

However, please consider B2L and the children we support in your year end giving. More information will be sent to you over the next few months to help the schools during these difficult times.

We thank you VERY MUCH for your support!

We are pleased to announce that Charity Navigator awarded Bridges to Learning a 100/100 score with their Encompass Rating system. It is a new rating system focusing on small nonprofit organizations. The rating is based on Finance and Accountability. Per Charity Navigator, “This beacon evaluates a nonprofit organization’s financial health, including measures of stability, efficiency, and sustainability. We also include accountability and transparency practices to ensure integrity.”  

It is a huge deal for our small organization as Charity Navigator typically reviews and rates large non-profits and is nationally recognized. Charity Navigator is working on rolling out ratings on three other beacons: Impact and Results, Leadership and Adaptability, and Culture and Community. We look forward to achieving high marks in those areas as well.

Kudos go to our past and current board members, and especially to B2L treasurer Bob Mac Murdo for providing great leadership and prudent management of the donations, grants, and sponsorships we are entrusted with by contributors like you.