The strangeness of strangers soon wore off as the Ship crew interacted with the local residents, many of whom had never seen a foreigner before. The only way of getting to Giuc Tuong in Kien Giang province was by boat.

It was the fourth trip to Vietnam, but the first to Giuc Tuong, a small community where most of the residents had never met a foreigner before the crew from Ship arrived in late December.

The crew, with nine students and two alumni built three small houses with the help of Vietnamese student partners and members of the community. All were eager participants and accomplished more than constructing buildings.

Through the United Campus Ministry, Reverend Jan Bye coordinates trips to Vietnam every two years. “The project is such an amazing opportunity on so many different levels,” said Jan. “The students have the opportunity to grow as world citizens, live out their beliefs, make friends across the globe, and serve others in need. The past participants in this experience have been changed forever.”

The students also visited Anh Linh School where they gave the children there school kits made by students at the Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School.

The journey into a remote area of Vietnam was worth it as the smiling faces of Ship volunteers and village residents show. In the few days of their stay, the Ship crew helped build three homes, including the one pictured.

Below right: Students at the Anh Linh School (for street children and orphans) are thrilled with the school kits children at the Luhrs Elementary School, on campus, created for them.