Letter of appreciation on the occasion of ACDC's 15th anniversary (2011-2026): Sharing vision - Bringing empowerment

Fifteen years ago, ACDC embarked on its journey with virtually nothing. We had limited resources, little recognition, and no achievements to demonstrate our capacity. All we had was a young and passionate team, driven by a deep conviction that persons with disabilities deserve a better life, one in which they are respected, given opportunities, and able to participate equally in society.

As one of ACDC’s founders and someone who has accompanied the organization since its first days, I cannot help but feel deeply moved and proud when looking back on these 15 years. I still remember those challenging early days, the long business trips, sleepless nights at work, constant struggles with limited resources, and doubts about whether the organization could survive. Yet, throughout this journey, we also received countless helping hands, words of encouragement, and invaluable trust from persons with disabilities themselves, as well as from our partners, donors, colleagues, friends, and families. Some believed in ACDC when we had nothing but aspirations and commitment.

From those first steps, ACDC has grown into what it is today. We are proud to have contributed to the improvement of important legal documents and policies; supported the development of dozens of organizations, associations, and groups of persons with disabilities; and established and developed various models in independent living, rehabilitation, livelihoods, accessibility, and community inclusion. Behind these figures are real people and lives transformed, barriers gradually dismantled, and new opportunities created.

What makes me most proud is not how much ACDC has grown, but how we have worked alongside the community of persons with disabilities to demonstrate that changes once considered extremely difficult can indeed become reality, enabling persons with disabilities to become confident, live independently, and be included in their communities. Persons with disabilities are not merely our companions on this journey; they are also our inspiration and the people who directly contribute their voices, knowledge, and actions to bring about these changes. Every improved policy, every public facility made more accessible, and every additional opportunity for a person with a disability to live independently is a testament to the power of belief and collaboration.

As ACDC enters its 15th year, we embark on a new chapter with the aspiration of becoming a professional organization dedicated to promoting the realization of rights, developing specialized services, fostering innovation, and creating an inclusive living environment for all. We understand that many challenges lie ahead, but there are also greater opportunities to create a more significant and sustainable impact for the community of persons with disabilities in Vietnam.

On the occasion of ACDC’s 15th anniversary (2011 – 2026), I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the community of persons with disabilities, organizations of and for persons with disabilities, government agencies, partners, donors, colleagues, friends, and families – everyone who has placed their trust in us, shared our aspirations, supported us, and accompanied us throughout this journey. ACDC’s achievements today bear the invaluable contributions and imprints of each and every one of you.

Fifteen years have passed, and we are proud of the journey we have taken. As we look towards the next ten years, we will continue to nurture our aspirations and belief that, together, we can bring about even greater changes.

Thank you for accompanying ACDC in “Sharing Visions, Bringing Empowerment” for persons with disabilities in Vietnam.

With sincere appreciation and gratitude,

Ph.D. Candidate. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh

Founder – Director Action to the Community Development Institute (ACDC)

Hanoi, 2 November 2026