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As a former school teacher, Minda Gordon is passionate about children's education. Through her advocacy, there are now three learning centers for tribal children in the mountains of South Cotabato in the Philippines. She mobilized resources, such as school supplies, from her American friends. These learning centers cater to pre-school children, ages three to five. By attending these centers, the children get a head start and are better prepared to go into the public school system.

Photo Above: The little boy was so happy to receive his family's share of the goats.

In a recent trip to the Philippines, Minda saw a group of 30 Bilaan and 35 Muslim children. It was their first time ever to visit a town, ride a ferris wheel, and eat ice cream. What impressed her most was how very well-behaved these children were. Additionally, the children did not appear fearful or intimidated. Instead, they were confident and followed their teacher's instructions.

Another area that tugs at Minda's heart is empowering women to become productive members of society through micro-economic developments.

Photo Above: Forty families received one goat each four years ago. The family pictured above has multiplied their project of goat raising and sold others to augment their family income.

Photo Above: Three learning centers have been established for tribal children to better prepare them for the public school.

Photo Above: Mobilizing friends in the U.S. has enabled us to collect and send school supplies and children's books. The picture is a typical classroom where children learn their numbers and alphabet.