A mark of compassion with the Avant_Charite Project

In recent academic years, the Community Services at PennSchool have always been among the most meaningful activities, where students are encouraged to develop ideas, lead initiatives, and spread positive values within the community. Beyond charitable purposes, these projects also provide opportunities for #HomeOfTheEagles to cultivate empathy, responsibility, and leadership skills throughout the implementation process.

During the academic year 2024 – 2025, the Avant_Charite Project embarked on a heartfelt journey to Tam Duc Shelter (District 4), providing care for over 70 children from diverse age groups with challenging circumstances. Continuing this spirit of kindness, the project this year has moved forward with a new mission of love by partnering with WagWel Rescue, a long-standing organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for abandoned pets.

As the project founder, Bui Tran Thanh Lan shared that Avant_Charite began with a simple yet deeply meaningful intention:

“Avant_Charite was born from our desire to help abandoned dogs and cats. We also hope to spread a message of love and animal protection to the PennSchool community and to society beyond. After discussion, our group unanimously chose WagWel Rescue because it is an established organization that has rescued and cared for countless abandoned animals, providing them with nourishing meals and a warm, loving home.

Throughout the project, we faced various challenges – from brainstorming sales ideas and finding trustworthy suppliers, to completing communication materials and designing posters within only two days before the event. At the same time, we also had to balance schoolwork with project planning. Since time was limited, we worked together to reorganize our schedules so we could keep up with our studies while ensuring the project was carried out smoothly.

After weeks of planning and execution, our project succeeded just as we had hoped. Through this experience, we learned how to manage our time effectively and gained valuable skills in ideation, design, and communication. We also strengthened our problem-solving abilities and teamwork skills. Whenever we encountered difficulties or differing opinions, we learned to share openly, listen to each other, and find the best solutions together.

More importantly, we learned the true meaning of “giving”. Previously, we thought giving simply meant sharing money, belongings, or effort to help someone. But through this journey, we realized that giving is not losing – it is a way of spreading love and care. Seeing abandoned dogs being better cared for thanks to the funds we raised brought us immense happiness – a joy that came from knowing we had created even a small positive change.”

For each member, the Avant_Charite journey carried different emotions and personal lessons. For Nguyen Xuan Nghi, the project was more than a charitable activity – it was an opportunity to learn, grow, and spread compassion.

“For us, the biggest challenge was balancing learning with extracurricular activities, including community service. In addition, the initial fundraising phase was quite difficult because many people did not fully understand the purpose of the project. Therefore, our team spent a lot of time designing posters, filming short videos, and sharing them on our class communication channels to spread the message. These challenges helped us realize that to inspire positivity within the community, we must first help people clearly understand the value and goals of the activity.

We all agree that the project helped each member grow. We learned how to work as a team, delegate tasks effectively, and – most importantly – stay committed to our shared mission. Moreover, visiting WagWel Rescue and seeing the dogs and cats being cared for helped us truly appreciate the value of empathy. We believe that not every good deed has to be grand; sometimes, just a little time and kindness are enough to bring hope.

When the project concluded, we all felt proud and fulfilled. We realized that everyone can create change – as long as we take the first step. The Avant_Charite Project has left a beautiful mark on our learning journey – a journey that connects hearts and nurtures kindness and compassion, reflecting the true values of #HomeOfTheEagles.”

After a long journey dedicated to the project, its success has become a source of pride not only for the founders but for every member involved.

“After a long journey together, we feel truly happy and proud. We are happy because we were able to contribute, even in a small way, to protecting and helping dogs and cats, giving them a better life. There are many animals out there who suffer from abuse, and seeing their situation fills us with compassion. With the success of the Avant_Charité Project, we were overjoyed to know that we helped create a safe and loving environment for these animals. 

At the same time, we are proud that the project has spread meaningful messages about protecting and caring for animals to PennSchool students and the wider community. We are deeply grateful for everyone’s support, and we truly cherish the entire journey— from the very first days of the project until its completion.” – This is also the heartfelt joy that Thanh Lan wished to share following the project’s success.

PennSchool deeply appreciates the students’ dedication and compassion, and believes that the values cultivated through Avant_Charite will continue to sow seeds of kindness throughout the community.