About

Since its beginnings in Toledo , the D.O.V.E. Fund has grown to include 25 members of the Board of Trustees - most of whom are veterans - a full time liaison in Vietnam and many members spread across the United States from New York to San Francisco and Minnesota to Louisiana. There are several fundraisers held each year throughout the country by our committed members most of whom have visited Vietnam and recognize the great need of many of its people. In Ohio, the D.O.V.E. Fund holds 2 major fund raisers each year, an elegant dinner auction and an all day golf outing followed by dinner and prizes Many donors have a connection with Vietnam through a family member or simply want to help build a struggling new society. There is at least one major trip to Vietnam each year where those interested in meeting the people, learning the culture and understanding the rich tradition and history of Vietnam may join in the journey that is fun and rewarding.


For veterans of the Vietnam war who have been scarred by painful memories for decades, a return to Vietnam with other veterans can provide the ultimate healing. It is in this environment where many veterans learn to finally put Vietnam in perspective. The generous and forgiving nature of the people helps many veterans deal with the images of their wartime experience and start to remember a new Vietnam. To help those who were once the enemy is an remarkable personal journey that is lifechanging for many veterans.

The Vietnamese people have a strong belief in the value of education. In spite of limited funds, the government has given wide support throughout the country to make education a national priority. Since 2000, The D.O.V.E. Fund has funded the construction of over 40 schools throughout the country. It was during the dedication of one of our school projects that we realized that just building a school was not enough. As we started to leave the new school, returning veteran Tom Treece, noticed a little girl crying on the side of the road. As he knelt down and extended his arms, he learned that her parents, who were farmers, could not afford to send her to school. Tom then reached into his pocket and gave the girl $10 and asked for her promise that it only be used for school. With her assurance and a big smile, she quickly ran to her mother working in the rice fields. We watched as she and her mother hugged each other and exchanged happy waves of goodbye to us as we drove away. Stories like this encouraged the trustees to consider a new scholarship endeavor by asking a simple question: Why build schools if the children can't afford to attend?


The scholarship program, started in 2000 has benefited hundreds of Vietnamese students from grade school to college.The D.O.V.E. Fund Scholarship Committee works with school administrators to determine which of the most deserving students will become scholarship candidates. Along with financial need, students must demonstrate scholastic potential, initiative and a solid work ethic to receive a D.O.V.E. Fund scholarship.

Givology is excited to assist with the D.O.V.E Fund's Scholarship program!