About Us
From Scarcity to Self Reliance
Our Journey
Founded by Dr. William Le and Dr. Elizabeth Leynes-Le, a husband-and-wife physician team from the San Francisco Bay Area, WE Foundation grew from a shared passion for helping the underserved.
An encounter with fellow physicians on medical missions to the Philippines led to a meeting with a Fr. John Vien Nguyen, visionary leader serving the indigenous people of Culion through his Self-Reliant Farm program. With financial support from family and friends, he provides scholarships to deserving young students and supports local livelihoods to help families become more self-sufficient.
Profoundly moved by Fr. John's dedication, WE Foundation aims to help expand his vision of empowering communities through sustainable solutions.
The need is clear
Culion was once a leper colony, isolated for nearly a century. Though declared leprosy-free in 2006, its remoteness and long history of separation have left it far behind in development.
The island lacks the basic institutions that support daily life—there are no banks, no colleges, and few formal services.
Many live in remote sitios with no paved roads or access, some reachable only by boat.
Children in remote villages often can’t attend high school because the nearest one is hours away, and staying closer means paying for lodging.
Some families live with the bare minimum. Homes without electricity, running water, or toilets are still common.
Our Approach
WE Foundation is dedicated to empowering underserved communities in the Philippines through scholarships and community development. In collaboration with local programs, government agencies and community leaders, we create sustainable solutions that foster self-reliance and a brighter future.
We live by our values
Empowerment
We invest in people so they can build their own future.
Sustainability
We focus on long-term solutions, not temporary fixes.
Collaboration
We work hand-in-hand with local leaders and partners.
Integrity
We act with transparency, accountability, and purpose.
