About the Jesse Griego Kindergarten
Rebuild: Ongoing
Original Completed: 2009
Project Sponsor: Jim Lewis
The Jesse Griego Kindergarten is dedicated to Jesse Griego, a fallen Marine in the Vietnam War. The kindergarten is located in A Xing Village, Quang Tri Province. It provides young children the opportunity to receive a local early education in a location where they are safe from unexploded weapons. Additionally, PeaceTrees’ healthy meal program provides them with a healthy meal five days a week and helps ensure that they receive the vital nutrients their growing bodies need to develop.
In October 2020, a series of consecutive storms severely damaged the original kindergarten building making it unsafe for use. The original sponsor of the school, and dear PeaceTrees friend, Jim Lewis, quickly set about raising funds for the rebuild of the school. The new classroom is currently being rebuilt. Here are Jim's reflections on what this journey has meant to him:
“Receiving the news about the destructive typhoon that destroyed Jesse’s kindergarten was heartbreaking. For 12 years it stood and helped provide education and opportunity to the children of A Xing Village. Jesse would have loved knowing that he had helped the children…which he may know. Once the shock wore off it was obvious to all, the school had to be rebuilt. So we made a plan, which matured into exceeding our fundraising goals! Next is a groundbreaking, rebuilding the school and then a dedication. I detect a smile from Jesse, as he was often prone to do.”
