Posted on June 23, 2025 View all Articles
In April 2025, Friends of Project Renew board members Bob Frank and Chuck Searcy traveled to Vietnam to witness firsthand the continuing impact of our life-saving work and the enduring partnerships that make it possible. Their visit highlighted the essential role international cooperation plays in healing the scars of war and investing in the future of central Vietnam.
One of the most meaningful moments of the trip was their meeting with representatives from the Irish Embassy in Hanoi—a long-standing and deeply valued partner of Project RENEW. For over a decade, the Irish government has provided steadfast support for Project RENEW’s efforts to educate children about explosive ordnance risks, assist survivors of UXO-related accidents, and create economic opportunities for families still affected by the legacies of war.
Bob and Chuck expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of Friends of Project RENEW for Ireland’s consistent commitment to justice and peace in Vietnam. They emphasized that the Embassy’s backing has not only funded direct assistance for survivors, but also helped build a model of community-led mine action that is now being expanded across provinces like Quang Tri and Quang Ngai.
“Meeting with the Irish Embassy was a reminder that peace is not just a concept—it’s a practice,” said Chuck Searcy. “Ireland has walked alongside the people of central Vietnam, year after year, in the quiet work of rebuilding lives and restoring safety.”
Bob Frank added, “Their support goes beyond dollars. It’s about dignity, solidarity, and a shared belief that no child should live in fear of landmines.”
The visit also reaffirmed Friends of Project RENEW’s commitment to cultivating meaningful partnerships and amplifying the voices of those who have turned hardship into hope. As we celebrate our growing global network, we recognize Ireland as one of the pillars that has helped Project RENEW thrive.
