A Time of Reflection for all our Blessings | Stories | International Humanitarian Missions

Thanksgiving is a time of reflection on the things we are most grateful for — and a deeper sense of connection to the people who bring meaning to our lives. It is the time to be thankful, a time to remember, and to embrace those who enrich our lives.

We're thankful for a lot of things — but we're most thankful for you.

"I want to thank my supporter from far away. My mom said they are from heaven, here to help us," said Chớ Nguyễn, a 7-year-old stateless Vietnamese girl living on the Tonle Sap River. "I love going to school and playing with my friends."

Because of your support, Chớ is starting her 2nd year of school. She and her family of 4 have received food, clothing, and school supplies. She is now able to read and write — thanks to you.

Chớ, a 7-year-old stateless Vietnamese girl, with her backpack and hands clasped in greeting — Chớ, a 7-year-old stateless Vietnamese girl starting her second year at the IHM school.

"Thanksgiving wishes from miles away, across the globe, from our home to yours. May your days be filled with laughter and happiness!"

Two children of the Tonle Sap floating village with their hands clasped, sending Thanksgiving greetings — From our home to yours — Thanksgiving wishes from the children of Tonle Sap.

Whatever is beautiful, whatever is meaningful, whatever brings you happiness — may it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year.

The season's most thoughtful gifts are those that create positive change now and for generations to come.

Children of Tonle Sap gathered with their bowls around a large pot of food at the IHM kitchen — Children of Tonle Sap gathered around the IHM kitchen — sharing food, sharing community.

Excited about a bright future.

As our children head back to school, the children of Tonle Sap are also starting their 2nd academic year. And as our children are excited about a good year, the students at our IHM school are excited about a bright future. We send them our best wishes for a great year with lots of love, learning, and laughter.

Our job now is to make sure that our school is supported by the best skills, experience, expertise, resources, and ideas from all of us — so that the children are given real and sustainable opportunities to improve their lives. In the very near future, we also want to expand the scope of our school to benefit more children, up and down Tonle Sap Lake.

The IHM team gathered in front of the Le Van Khanh School of Hope sign — The Le Van Khanh School of Hope — where bright futures begin.

A large group photo of the IHM team together with Le Van Khanh students, all in matching blue shirts in front of the school sign — The IHM family — students, teachers, supporters, and volunteers — all gathered at Le Van Khanh.

There is nothing more beautiful than someone who goes out of their way to make life beautiful for others. — Mandy Hale

A young Le Van Khanh student smiling broadly as he holds up his Khmer-language workbook — The smile that says it all — your generosity, turned into a future.

A Time of Reflection for all our Blessings.

Excited about a bright future.

Be someone's thank you this year.