The Heart Behind the Lotus Child Foundation
The Lotus Child Foundation was born from a place of compassion, shaped by firsthand experiences and a deep desire to help those who continue to live with the scars of the Vietnam War.
Moved by what he witnessed during his visits to South Vietnam, Mr. Barger, a compassionate attorney with a heart for service, co-founded the foundation to bring hope and healing to children and families still suffering from the devastating impact of Agent Orange, poverty, and limited access to medical care. What began as a personal mission quickly grew into a lifelong commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities—both abroad and at home.
Mr. Barger is not only a strong advocate for children in Vietnam, but also for underserved youth in the Randolph Metrocom area of Texas. His leadership roles as Past and Current President of the Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club, Founding Board Member of the Randolph Metrocom Rotary Foundation, and Board Member of the Partners in Education Foundation reflect his unwavering dedication to service, education, and opportunity for all.
Alongside him is Kristyann Nguyen Barger, his wife and co-founder of the Lotus Child Foundation. Kristyann brings her own powerful story and voice through her book, One Woman with Divided Lives—a deeply personal narrative about cultural identity, resilience, and healing. Through this book, Kristyann not only shares her journey, but has made it her mission to give back: 100% of the proceeds go directly to support the Lotus Child Foundation’s efforts.
Together, Mr. and Mrs. Barger have united their passions to create a legacy of love, compassion, and tangible change—one child, one family, one story at a time.
To support this mission, you can purchase Kristyann’s book on
Amazon or
Barnes & Noble.
CHARITIES
It’s a deep privilege to be able to follow my heart and travel with purpose. This year, my journey took me to Vietnam, where I sought to connect with those whose lives have been shaped by the lasting scars of war and political turmoil. The consequences of conflict go far beyond broken buildings—they fracture communities, dismantle institutions, and leave behind pain that lingers for generations, both visible and invisible.
I feel truly honored to share what little I have, and even more so to be welcomed into lives and stories that expand my understanding of resilience, suffering, and hope. These experiences have given me the gift of perspective and a deeper appreciation for the strength of the human spirit.
From Central to Southern Vietnam, I’ve been humbled to meet individuals living with disabilities and in extreme poverty—many impacted by the devastating legacy of Agent Orange or the harsh realities of generational hardship. I’ve been able to offer food, medicine, and financial support so they can access care and treatment specific to their needs. Each encounter has reminded me that even the smallest act of compassion can carry immense meaning.
A Story of Healing, Identity, and Giving Back
In 2024, I published One Woman with Divided Lives, a deeply personal exploration of multicultural identity, family, and resilience. The book delves into the complexities of navigating life between cultures, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of a biracial family. Through this narrative, I aim to shed light on the struggles faced by many who live between worlds, striving to find a sense of belonging.
But this book is more than just a story—it's a mission. All proceeds from One Woman with Divided Lives are dedicated to supporting individuals affected by Agent Orange in Vietnam. The legacy of this chemical has left profound impacts on countless lives, causing severe health issues and disabilities that persist through generations. By channeling the book's earnings into foundations that provide medical care, rehabilitation, and support services, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those still grappling with its effects.
Your purchase of this book is not just an investment in a compelling narrative; it's a step toward healing and hope for many. Together, we can honor the past and contribute to a brighter future.
Available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
At the Lotus Child Foundation, we are deeply honored to be a monthly sponsor of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—a place where hope lives and miracles happen every day.
If it’s within your heart to give, we invite you to join us in supporting this life-saving mission. Your contribution could help give a child the chance to grow, to dream, and to live. Because of the kindness of generous donors, families at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. They’re free to focus on what matters most—helping their child fight for life with love and dignity.
Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club
Mr. Barger is the 2025 President of the Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club, a founding board member of the Randolph Metrocom Rotary Foundation, and a board member of the Partners in Education Foundation. Rotary brings people from all parts of the world together, developing a network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time, experience, and expertise to assist with the world’s most constraining humanitarian challenges.
