From fleeing war to a life of philanthropy: How education transformed Gatod’s life 

When war erupted in South Sudan in the early 1980s, young Gatod and his family were forced to flee to the northern region of the country, seeking refuge from the violence. But they found more than just safety—they discovered an educational opportunity that would shape the future of the entire family. 

A foundation built on education 

In their new village, Gatod, his siblings and even his uncle enrolled in an SOS Children’s Villages community school. 

“My uncle is [now] a lawyer, and my brother is a pharmacist,” he said. “If not for this school, most of my family wouldn’t be here. We wouldn’t know the value of education.” 

He remembers how dedicated teachers created a nurturing learning environment for each child to thrive. For many children in the community, school became more than a location to learn—it was a safe place that sheltered children from the dangers of child exploitation and labor.  

A few years into his education, a class on United States history sparked a dream that would alter the course of Gatod’s future: a dream to visit the United States. 

Classroom dreams become real-world achievements 

Years later, that dream came true.  

Gatod and his family resettled in the United States, where he enrolled in college. Equipped with the strong educational foundation he received at SOS and a relentless work ethic, Gatod earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona.  

Today, Gatod’s educational journey continues as he pursues a graduate degree in Middle Eastern and North African studies and social linguistics. His ultimate goal? To become a foreign services officer—a career path inspired by his early education.  

“I give all my credit to that school,” Gatod said. “If it weren’t for that, I wouldn’t be where I am now. It gave me hope and opened my eyes to education.”  

The ripple effect of compassion 

Gatod’s connection to SOS Children’s Villages runs deeper than his own experience. During his childhood school years, he formed friendships with children from the nearby SOS Children’s Village.  

“While I was lucky enough to have my mom and dad, those kids didn’t have anyone but SOS,” he said. “I saw firsthand how this is something good to be involved in, something that makes a difference in this world.” 

Witnessing this impact inspired Gatod to become a monthly sustainer of SOS—despite being on a student’s budget. 

“I’m a student, so I can’t give much, but I know that if I give a little, and someone else gives a little, that it will add up to a great impact for kids in need,” Gatod said. 

How regular giving creates extraordinary change 

Gatod’s journey isn’t only an inspiring story—it’s living proof of the transformative power of education and consistent support in the lives of marginalized children worldwide. 

Monthly sustainers—a community of dedicated, compassionate friends to children—are the backbone of SOS’ work worldwide. Every monthly gift creates a ripple effect that spans generations.  

When thousands of compassionate supporters each contribute a small amount monthly, the impact on children is extraordinary. Children who might otherwise be forgotten discover their potential and develop the skills to transform their communities. 

Your commitment—at any level—creates the stability children need to thrive, even in the most challenging circumstances. Together, we can ensure that more children like Gatod have the opportunity to turn their classroom dreams into real-world achievements. 

Invest in a child’s future and become a monthly sustainer today.