The two main objectives of the Hanoi International Women’s Club are assisting expatriate women to settle happily into life in Ha Noi and supporting Vietnamese women and children in need. HIWC provides a variety of activities and social occasions for its members, while also presenting many opportunities to engage in meaningful work that makes a difference to the lives of others.

Our giving begins with the proceeds from our biggest fundraiser, the Annual Charity Bazaar, which takes place at the end of the year (November/December). HIWC members join with embassy representatives to create a blend of festivals from around the world featuring cuisine, crafts, national dress and entertainment - the proceeds of which all go to our community aid projects. These funds are supplemented year round by sales of our publications (the Hanoi Guide, the agenda, the cookbook), and the proceeds from our luncheons, coffee mornings and special events.

Our community aid projects are extremely varied, from funding orthopedic, eye and cleft lip/palate operations and donating life-saving oxygen delivery systems to newborns to providing support for women victims of domestic violence in Ha Noi and improving the health environment of schools in Ha Tinh province. Our sponsorship programs support children to stay in school - street children, ethnic minority students and children with disabilities. We have worked with - amongst others - orphanages, hospitals and schools and with organizations such as the World Health Organization, the National Fund for Vietnamese Children, the Friendship Village and the Women’s Union. All our efforts are characterized by a commitment to ensure all project money is well spent.

Working on the Community Aid Committee has many benefits beyond the obvious ones of improving the lives of many Vietnamese. It helps us to feel more connected with our host country and offers many opportunities to learn more about Vietnamese culture and institutions. Our aid projects are more than just giving a cash donation to an organization. It often involves developing relationships with the groups and individuals we fund and sharing some of their hopes and dreams.

Anybody, who is interested in submitting a proposal for needy projects, please contact Amanda Jensen for the guidelines and procedures.

In 2010, the Community Aid Committee consists of approximately 14 volunteers from all different countries. HIWC Members, who are interested in volunteering for the Community Aid Committee should contact the Co-chairs. Volunteers will be expected to attend the monthly CAC meeting as well as making a serious commitment of time to work on projects taken on by the CAC.