Swing for the Kids golf charity raises much-needed funds for students

For nearly the past two decades, the tournament has provided scholarships to underprivileged students across the country, leaving a profound impact on the lives of thousands.

Since its inception, the tournament has mobilised over $880,000 in donations, delivering scholarships and funding the renovation of educational facilities in 40 provinces and cities throughout Vietnam. Speaking about this year’s efforts, Le Trong Minh, VIR’s editor-in-chief, said, "With 243 golfers participating this season, we estimate we have raised more than $92,000 to continue our mission of supporting students in need."

According to Minh, the Swing for the Kids initiative has become a lifeline for many students from difficult backgrounds, helping them pursue their dreams of higher education. Many former recipients of these scholarships have graduated, established careers, and are now making meaningful contributions to society.

$92,000 was raised to empower underprivileged students across Vietnam. Photo: Chi Cuong

For students like Chao Lo May from Lao Cai, the scholarship is more than financial aid - it symbolises a responsibility to excel.

"It’s not just about gratitude; it’s about responsibility. This scholarship motivates me to study harder and give back to those who have helped me along the way," said May, who has received the scholarship for three consecutive years.

She has used the scholarship to cover tuition, rent, and even an English language course, which she hopes will give her an edge after graduation.

Similarly, Vu Minh Phuc, a fourth-year student at the Academy of Policy and Development, also reflected on the scholarship’s significance. Her family’s financial situation is dire, with her father working as a farmer and her mother managing a heart condition.

"This scholarship means so much to my family. It eases the financial burden, allowing me to pay tuition and support my younger brother, who is just starting university," said Phuc.

This year’s tournament also extended its reach to students affected by Typhoon Yagi, which recently hit northern Vietnam. Six students received emergency financial support of $400 each to help them recover from the impact of the disaster.

One of the recipients, Do Thi Hue, a student at the University of Transport and Communications, spoke about her family’s losses.

"The typhoon destroyed five acres of our farmland and swept away our seedlings. My parents tried to hold back their tears and encouraged me to continue my studies, but it was devastating. This support means I can stay in school and pay my tuition," said Hue.

Another beneficiary, Nguyen Thi Hai Hau, a second-year student at the same university, spoke of her struggles after her family lost a fish pond and 60 ornamental kumquat trees.

"My brother and I both need money for tuition. As soon as I receive the scholarship, I’ll head back to Hung Yen to pay for my brother’s fees first. He has been anxiously waiting for me," said Hau.

Nguyen Huong Tra My from the Academy of Policy and Development also expressed her gratitude after surviving a landslide that buried her family’s home in Yen Bai province.

"My father heard the sound of rocks falling that night and told us to run. Barefoot and half-asleep, I escaped with my parents just before our house was engulfed," said My. "We lost everything, but today’s scholarship gives me hope to continue my studies."

At the gala event, the Organising Committee awarded six full scholarships worth $400 each to outstanding students from the Academy of Policy and Development and the University of Transport and Communications. In addition, the committee provided $800 to the Vietnam Scholarship Fund.

The Organising Committee provided $8,000 to the Vietnam Scholarship Fund. Photo: Chi Cuong

As the 17^th season of the Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament concludes, the initiative serves as a beacon of hope, empowering students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue education, overcome challenges, and shape a brighter future.

Full scholarship recipients for 2024:

1. Mai Van Yen – Accounting, 3^rd year, Academy of Policy and Development

2. Vu Minh Phuc – International Economics, 3^rd year, Academy of Policy and Development

3. Chao Lo May – Auditing and Accounting, 3^rd year, Academy of Policy and Development

4. Ho Thi Binh – Applied Mathematics, 3^rd year, University of Transport and Communications

5. Bui Thi Xuan Mai – Applied Mathematics, 2^nd year, University of Transport and Communications

6. Nguyen Huong Giang – English Language, 1^st year, University of Transport and Communications

Emergency aid for students affected by Typhoon Yagi:

1. Nguyen Huong Tra My – Academy of Policy and Development

2. Nguyen Bich Ngoc – International Economics, Academy of Policy and Development

3. Vu Tran Ngoc Ha – Economics, Academy of Policy and Development

4. Nguyen Quynh Hoa – Digital Economics, Academy of Policy and Development

5. Do Thi Hue – Applied Mathematics, University of Transport and Communications

6. Nguyen Thi Hai Hau – Applied Mathematics, University of Transport and Communications

Hundreds gather at 2024 Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament In its 17th iteration, the Swing for the Kids 2024 charity golf tournament drew hundreds of golfers, who engaged in the competition and lent their support to underprivileged students.

Best golfers awarded at Swing for the Kids 2024 The Swing for the Kids 2024 charity golf tournament has raised almost $100,000 from donors and 243 golfers.

Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament kicks off The 17th edition of the Swing for the Kids charity golf tournament teed off on the morning of October 12, with nearly 300 golfers participating.