The Values That Built Our Foundation

Lieutenant Colonel Lê Văn Thuyên

Our foundation is rooted in the life and example of Lieutenant Colonel Lê Văn Thuyên, whose journey from Huế, Vietnam to the United States shaped the principles we carry forward today.

As a young man, he lost his father early and learned responsibility long before adulthood. At 19, he joined the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, eventually rising to Lieutenant Colonel. His life was defined by duty, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serve others.

In 1975, he made the painful decision to send his wife and seven children to the United States to protect their future, remaining behind to fulfill his military responsibilities. After escaping Vietnam during the fall of Saigon, he reunited with his family and began again in rural Minnesota, with no status, no wealth, and no certainty.

He exchanged an officer’s uniform for janitor’s work clothes, later retraining as a machinist. With grit and discipline, he and his wife rebuilt their lives and ensured all seven children received a college education. He believed dignity comes not from title, but from responsibility.

His devotion extended beyond his immediate family. When his elderly mother required full-time care, he visited her daily, often multiple times, feeding her meals and caring not only for her but for others around her. Service, to him, was not situational. It was a way of life.

Because our family once depended on the generosity of others to rebuild, we believe in creating sustainable opportunities for families facing hardship today. Duty. Resilience. Service. These are not just words to us, they are the foundation of our work.