I have been, and continue to be, a regular donor of LE.O, having seen the positive impact the organisation has on the lives of many students. Well over the past decade, LE.O has supported many talented individuals in their educational pursuits. The students have thrived thanks to LE.Os continuous guidance and counselling, and the program has afforded them countless opportunities for a brighter future. Even in these excruciatingly difficult times, LE.O provides a beacon of hope for many. Its work is truly invaluable, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to support its tireless efforts, and I encourage others to do the same.
LEO helped me make my dreams come true. At the time when I could not afford to pay for my visa and flights to the US to attend college and all the times I needed advice, LEO advisors were always there for me. I am beyond lucky to having been a member of the LEO community.
I hope this message finds you well. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Leonard Education Organization for your continuous efforts and dedication to serving the community. Your generosity and commitment to making a positive impact in people’s lives are truly inspiring.
Through your initiatives and support, you have brought hope and relief to many individuals in need. Your kindness and compassion reflect the true essence of humanitarian work, and we deeply appreciate everything you do.
Thank you once again for your invaluable contributions. Wishing you continued success in your noble mission.
Best regards.
I am honored to be serving on the board of this outstanding organization, and I am incredibly proud of its strengths-based, empowerment-centered approach that centers the students wellbeing and enhances their resilience and pre-existing abilities so that they can thrive rather than merely survive. Watching our students evolve and grow has been the most rewarding highlight of my career. I have no doubt that these students will lead the way towards a better future for Palestinians and contribute to making the world a better place.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Leo for their generous financial support during the war on Gaza. Your kindness and solidarity have made a profound difference in these difficult times, bringing hope and relief to those in need. Your compassion and generosity will never be forgotten.
Thank you for standing with us. May you always be blessed for your noble efforts.
My experience with L.E.O was truly wonderful. After fleeing the war in Gaza, I was searching for my next step, that’s when I found L.E.O. They guided me through every stage of my journey, from leaving Egypt to securing a full scholarship to study in the U.S. Their support went beyond academics; they helped me mentally, emotionally, and financially. Whether it was preparing for my visa, building connections, or receiving mentorship, L.E.O was there every step of the way. They feel like a family to me, and I will forever be grateful for their great support.
LEO Organization is a great opportunity for the students who in need to complete their career in all over the world and that is due to their generous fund and support for students not for nothing but because they have vision and mission as they nonprofit organization so, much love and respect for these people and for their unlimited support
This nonprofit is just that: No profit for the organizer, only for students who get a chance and support to study. Highly recommended!
If you are looking for an organization that genuinely cares about education and student success, I highly recommend Leonard Education Organization Inc. Their work is transformative, and their impact speaks for itself!
I have not worked directly with LE.O, but Mrs. Dresner-Bradić’s tireless work ethic and determination to help Palestinian students pursue their goals is not only inspiring, but admirable. The committee’s ability to be organised, impartial, and fair to all of their students is yet another example for all non-profit organisations around the country.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to LEO for the support it provided throughout my university journey. Thanks to this organization, I was able to complete each semester successfully without the worrying about school expenses. The financial assistance lifted a significant weight off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my studies and fully immerse myself in the academic experience. I am truly honored to be part of this organization, and I will always be thankful for LEO.
My Journey with LEO – A Story of Resilience and Hope
Life has tested me in ways I never imagined—war, displacement, and endless obstacles to securing my education. But through it all, LEO became more than just an organization; it became a lifeline.
Fleeing Syria, navigating refugee life in Lebanon, and later arriving in Canada alone, I faced immense challenges. Despite earning a scholarship to Pearson College, legal and visa hurdles nearly shattered my dreams. I arrived two months late, struggling academically, emotionally, and financially. But giving up was never an option.
This is where LEO changed everything. They provided academic mentorship, emotional support, and a family of Palestinian youth who understood my struggles. Most profoundly, they helped reunite me with my father after 11 years of separation—a moment I never thought possible.
With their support, I was able to pursue university education at York University and build the stability I long fought for. LEO didn’t just help me succeed in school—they gave me hope, belonging, and a future to believe in.
Forever grateful,
Mohammad Diyaa Ammori
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I joined LEO recently during Christmas break after a call with Ms. Deya'a that happened by coincidence. I could wish no better Christmas gift than knowing that Ms. Deya'a welcomed me to the LEO family. Ms. Deya'a does a tremendous effort in responding to the students' needs and she is only a call away to reach. After Joining LEO, I felt home away from home especially after all the struggles I have been facing in every aspect of life. LEO with the fascinating leadership of Ms. Deya'a motivated me to succeed and do my best while realizing that I am not alone in this journey.
I am proud to be a member of the LEO family!
Working with LE.O has allowed me the privilege to take part in shaping a brighter future for the next generation—a generation filled with bright, talented, and impactful individuals. What first stood out to me about LE.O was the extraordinary attention to detail given to each student; every individual is cared for as the unique person they are. This personalized support is what truly sets someone up for success.
LE.O thrives because it is a community—a collaboration of students, volunteers, board members, and donors—working together. This is how the next generation of leaders is created. This is how real impact is made in the world. And this is LE.O.
I am deeply grateful to Deya’ and our entire LE.O community, and I am honored to continue contributing to such meaningful work.
As a volunteer at the Leonard Education Organization ( LE.O ), it has been a great pleasure to engage. Using collective resources, this organization continues to educate under-resourced students allowing them the opportunity to overcome their challenges, and continue their educations through scholarships. Donors can engage by supporting the students with gap funding needs to ensure that they are able to continue their education. This type of close attention is unprecedented in the world of NGOs. Respect and Gratitude to LE.O
As a member of the LE.O Community, I am witness to the transformative power an education can have on the lives of dedicated and motivated under-rerved young people. You only have to go to the site to read about the challenges they have faced and their tremendous achievements , as a result their educations.
LEO helped me navigate my master's applications, and provided full support during the whole process of choosing a school, applying for it, and reviewing my application. But there support did not stop there! They also helped me resettle in a different country and supported me financially and logistically during this process. So I have them to thank for actually having been able to go to my new school and complete my masters with honors.
This guidance and support, which is often times financial, is what enables LEO to be the great organization that it is today, because it caters to the ambitious students who grew up lacking financial or logistic means, but definitely compensating for it in ambition, intelligence, and hard work.
Special thanks go out to Ms. Deya' for her unconditional support and for always making herself available to us.
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The mission of this organization is beyond noble. Its work in the field of opening doors for Palestinian students to continue their education and supporting them throughout the way is nothing short of incredible.
As a Palestinian student who has been fortunate enough to be a part of this organization, I can testify to the lengths that LEO would go to to support us financially and mentally.
I'm proud to be a part of this organization, and I hope that they get the recognition that they deserve for all they do for us.
LE.O has not been but family to me. They have supported me tremendously throughout my studies at my undergraduate institution and continuing to do so in graduate school. LE.O is always a call away when life happens and things start to go downhill. I appreciated their emotional motivation and their generous financial contribution towards my studies.
I want to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible support throughout my university journey. As a non-profit organization, you have gone above and beyond to help me secure the necessary funding to cover my university expenses.
Your generosity and compassion have allowed me to focus on my studies without the burden of financial worry. I am truly humbled and honored to be a part of such a remarkable family.
Words cannot express the depth of my appreciation for your assistance. Your unwavering support has made a profound difference in my life, and I am forever grateful for your kindness and generosity.
Thank you again for everything, Leo. I am proud to be a part of your organization.
Leo continues to be one of the most helpful organizations for students. I have been in the US for 7 years and since I joined the Leo family I have been connected to many great individuals and advisors helping me navigate through college, life challenges and future plans. In the most difficult times leo members made sure I was okay, safe and had everything I needed which is something I didn't get from my university or anyone else.
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LEO is a great organization and source of support for students. Joining LEO gave me a whole family that cares about me and helped me in the hardest times throughout college. It is run by great people and through the organization I was able to expand my network worldwide. I am so thankful to be part of the LEO family !
Leo is a great organisation, thay are helping me in literally everything in my educational journey through supporting me and giving advices to me, thay are a very good organisation!!
LE.O has helped and supported me with every single major transition of my academic journey. Moving abroad, Uni etc.. LE.O connected me with useful resources and people who helped me along the way!
Forever grateful!
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I joined L.E.O when I was 16 years old! I was too young to joing but I insisted to do so feeling that L.E.O would be my home while travelling away from home! And it was! From my experience, I have grown up in L.E.O! Deya and this community were always and still beside me, encouraging me in every single step, cheering to me at every successs, and support me at every failure! L.E.O does significant work to help Palestinian students through their ways, bring them together and create huge netwrok, and create a very warm and welcoming community! Deya and L.E.O have helped a lot starting from Visa process, to settle in the Uk, to apply for Uni! They were simply here always! I am so thankful to be a part in this bright family!
With love,
Roaya
LEO has been a great support for my during my studies in the US. They managed to provide me with the community I much needed.
The organization connected me with people from my background which my my transition to the USA very easy .
LE.O was always there for me whenever I needed support or advice throughout my college education and beyond.
I have been a supporter of the Leonard Education Organization ( LE.O ) since it was established some 8 years ago. For generations, my family has supported the education of Palestinians in Ramallah, and LE.O is continuing in this tradition. I regularly receive Newsletters and activity reports about their work and success stories about the students they support. They clearly demonstrate their mission by preparing Palestine’s future scientists, policy makers, educators, and entrepreneurs. Their focus on soft skills development and their unique holistic approach has been key to their successes. I am impressed that this volunteer organization engages the students in all the decision-making processes and in running the day-to-day activities of the organization’s programs. I encourage others to learn more about their extraordinary work and wish them continued success.
LE.O promotes not just education, but changes lives by nurturing the next generation of high achievers who care deeply about the world. The work of this organization is impactful, enduring and crucial. Thank you for making a genuine difference in the lives of young people who, without you, might never have had the chance. .
I come from a family of 10, so going to dental school seemed like an impossible dream. If it wasn’t for LE.O I don’t know what I would have done. The community members and mentors are so kind and helpful and sensitive to our needs. I always feel supported and welcome. So grateful to be part of LE.O.
I always wanted to become a journalist. LE.O makes my dream possible every single day. From helping me with the price of books and helping with my living expenses abroad, to offering advice and moral support when I need it. I am happy to be a member of this loving and supportive community.
By offering financial support and academic guidance to my son, LE.O has significantly reduced the financial burden my family struggles with. I have many children and educating them all seemed like a farfetched dream, until LE.O stepped in. We are all beyond grateful that we have a son receiving a high quality education.
I am very thankful for how LE.O is helping my daughter build the foundations for her future by offering a strong support system for her. The LE.O community is like a second family that I am always relieved to know have my daughter’s back. LE.O has removed financial barriers for her and gave her hope for a future through which she can make a difference in the Palestinian community through journalism.
If you want to understand the value of LEO, put yourself in the shoes of their students. Imagine earning an opportunity to go to university, but it is in another country. There begin the challenges: visas, flights, housing, insurance, health care, food, and the list goes on.
LEO is there for their students. They guide, advise and, most importantly, care for them in a way no other NGO has done. They have helped more than 130 gifted students to excel and flourish.
There is hope now where there once was none. Remarkable!
L.EO are always my number 1 supporters. They helped my continue my education, which was impossible for me to do because of my family's financial situation, they always check on me to know if I ever need something, they helped me become the hope for my family and I cannot express how grateful I am. Being a part of L.EO's amazing community will always be something I am proud of.
The Leonard Education Organization has been a safe learning environment for me and it has allowed me to put many of my skills into practice to help the next generation of Palestinian youth. I was once a LE.O student, and now I get to use my skills where they are needed, whether it’s in working with students, graphic design, or serving on the board. I am proud of how everyone in the LE.O community feels respected, included, and supported. I haven’t worked with any educational nonprofit organization that serves its students in such a holistic and intersectional manner! Proud to be part of LE.O.
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I have been part of LE.O since its inception, first as a service recipient, then I had the honor to serve in several leadership roles over the years and contribute in meaningful ways to this strong and supportive community. With LE.O’s support, I completed my graduate studies in feminist studies, a field I’ve been passionate about for a long time. As solidarity, community, and preserving dignity are core principles of feminist activism, I am proud to say that LE.O is the only community where I have found it easy to apply feminist principles instead of just theorizing them without putting them to practice. I am proud beyond measures to be part of this community, a community that is filled with strong women, a community that celebrates and honors the humanity of its members and puts their dignity above all else. I am proud because the women of LE.O are one of the pillars of its continuity and success.
LE.O has been on my side every step of the way during university applications, whether it was providing academic counseling on what universities to apply to or covering application fees. I am eternally blessed for having its support and I can’t wait to pay it forward and help guide the next generation of students.
LEO was a godsend, I didn’t even think I would be able to go to university especially with Lebanon’s economic crisis. Now with their support and guidance I can be nurse and help my people
I have been working on myself alone with no help since day one. I've suffered from wars and discrimination. I studied at King's Academy for my sophomore, junior, and senior year after I got a full scholarship. Yet, I've come to a point when I was about to lose hope in my future because of my financial situation, papers, and documents. Then, I was introduced to Deya by a teacher of mine at the school, who is also a member of LEO. I had an interview with Deya, and I prepared so much and was stressed about it. But the way she talked to me and the way she interviewed me was so stress-relieving. Even though I had no idea what type of help I was gonna get if I get accepted to LEO, I did apply because I believed that any kind of help would benefit me. However, what I witnessed from LEO and what they have done to me exceeded my expectations. I got help whenever I needed it. Whenever I have an issue regarding anything in the world, LEO and Deya have always been on my side. The community of LEO is amazing and consists of people who are just wonderful and appreciate the efforts you have put into your life, and help you make your dreams come true.
If I want to talk about LEO and what they have done to me, it would take me all night. However, I would love to talk about the mission of the organization. I love its mission and one of my dreams was to do something similar in my life. You get the help when you need it, but when you are in a good situation, it would be your turn to give back. I appreciate LEO and every member of the organization.
Deya, thank you so much for what you've done to my life. You've totally changed it and made such an amazingly positive impact through your efficient work and dedication.
I don't want to mention every single person because I would never finish. But, from the bottom of my heart, thank you!
Leonard Education Organization supports me and gives me everything I need, Being a member of their community is one of the best things that have happened to me in my life.
Also, communicating with them gives you incentive and encouragement to complete the path of excellence and creativity.
Therefore, LE.O deserves all my thanks and praise.
I would like to thank all the LE.O, with an additional special thanks to the kind and generous Mrs. Deya.
LE.O over the years still supports me and gives me everything I need , never let up any moment on my help, I can say it's the best thing that has happened in my life, thanks LE.O for everything.
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I always wanted to get into medical school, but I couldn’t afford it, LE.O helped financially by helping me pay my school fees and also it introduced me to a community of people from all around the world that I know they’ll always be there when I need them.
LE.O continues to help me achieve my dream of becoming a dentist by providing all kinds of support: encouragement and mental support, and providing financial assistance so that I can have access to all the resources I need to succeed. It is such a comfort to know I have the unconditional support of such a strong community. It allows me to focus on my studies instead of worrying about how I can secure basic needs that my limited resources cannot cover. I am forever grateful to LE.O for changing my life and making it possible for me to dream again.
I have been a donor since they began their work . I can think of no better way to support youth from challenging life circumstances than to ensure they receive an education that can transform their future prospect
LEO is special. It is not always about the money and organization tend to forget the human aspect of their work. LEO cares so much about their students and checks in on them to make sure they are mentally, physically and emotionally healthy. They truly deserve more credit than they get. Keep up the great work
Leonard Education Organization Inc feels like a home. Their support is something I have never encountered before. I am not only happy but proud to be part of this amazing mission. Leonard Education Organization Inc supported me during my hard time and removed a wight of stress off my shoulders.
My experience with LEO has been nothing short of amazing. I have, personally, worked with many organizations and none of which provide the holistic, individual support that LEO offers. Deya' is always one call away at any time and she is well aware of what international students might face on their educational paths. She is caring and friendly, so is everyone else on the board. I hope LEO's work continues to help other unprivileged students and thrive as a model organization in the education field.
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I joined the LEO organization approximately a year ago. I wish I had known the organization before applying to US colleges; yet they have been a great resource throughout my academic journey here at Rochester. They helped surmount a lot of impediment I faced in college, both mentally and financially. Deya’ is amazing and always willing to help with any possible way.
I feel very lucky to be a member of such an amazing community. I joined L.E.O few months ago and it is incredible to have that connection with people I didn't even meet. My words can't really express how L.E.O is being such a relief for many people including me.
LEO made me look forward for the future when I'm going to be a giver! LEO is simply the symbol for generosity..
LE.O has done amazing things for so many Palestinian students, so much work has been put into this foundation to help make sure students get funding in helping pay their tuition.
The foundation also does a great job of connecting all of its members and building a close community that supports one another.
I look forward to paying it forward and supporting other students in the future.
I am Ibrahim Alashy, a dentist, I have been supported from the LE.o to get my certificate, LE.o deserve the all respect and appreciation, we hope to continue their charity work around the world.
I’ve joined LEO couple months ago, and I can’t even express how glad I am to be part of this amazing community. Since day one, LEO has provided their full support in every aspect. I remember being so stressed out before going to college, but with their help I managed to figure everything out. I genuinely feel like I have a second family now. I remember ask Deya’ “ is there anything you want in return?” She said “ we want you to focus, study, succeed, and offer help to others as well. That’s it” and I believe these words can simply tell what LEO is all about.
LE.O plays an important role in assisting Palestinian students who come from different backgrounds to pursue their educational degrees in the United States, Egypt, Turkey, UK and other countries. LE.O helps students in many ways, including but not limited to tuition and fees, finding housing opportunities and hosting students, purchasing electronic devices, and providing students with the things they need to assure their success in their educational programs.
Please continue to support LE.O so we can see more young students succeed and achieve their dreams.
LEO is not just an organization; it is a big family. I am always glad to be part of this family where everybody is willing to help each other. I have been part of LEO for four years, and they were always there when I needed any help. LEO is always there to help students achieve their dreams and that is why all members of LEO are special at what they are doing because the motivation and support we receive help us to succeed. LEO gave me and the other students a chance to change our lives, they treat us like a family, they try to help us. I’m forever grateful for them.
Hello everyone,
My name is Mohammed from Gaza, It’s almost my third year being a member of this great community. L.EO was always a great support to me, now I’m a student in Bridgewater College, Without L.EO’s help, I couldn’t have done much. In L.EO we are family, standing by each other at all times, Finally and always, I’m proud to be L.EO. We’ve been doing a great job, and will keep it up.
Hello everyone,
When we talk about LE,O we mean the family, it is an organization concern with help notable students in the world.
My story began with LEO when I was in my second year of medicine, I was looking for a suitable scholarship and found LEO, I submitted to it and after short meetings, I have accepted.
I would say THANKS to LE, O community, and members of this magnificent community.
I am proud to be a member of this wonderful organization.
Since it‘s founding days I have seen how dedicated and tiered-less Deya has worked to provide counseling, mentorship and assistance to under-served Palestinian students world-wide.
Pleas make sure that we can continue to be a top-rated non-profit organization and share!
I have been involved with L.E.O Education since its founding, as a student, a mentor, and a believer. The organization provides personal, financial, educational, and mentoring services to Palestinian students in need. L.E.O is exceptional in its personalized approach and its direct investments in the students' lives - one does not feel like it is just another scholarship program, it is truly a family.
I am a new LEO scholar as I joined it this year . I began my journey in LEO while I was applying for UWC! Actually , Deya supported me in every single step : she guided me during my interviews , encouraged me to give my best , and stood with me step by step until I got the scholarship . Then , she introduced me to LEO team where every one works to help the other! LEO is not just a group , it is a home for all palestinian students ! And Deya is more than a friend to us !
I am very proud for being a part in this community , and it is my pleasure to know such a marvelous and generous person like Deya !
As a parent it is never easy to let your kid go away from the safety of home but I also understand that when opportunities come your way you should take advantage of them. My son left home at an early age and I supported him throughout while hiding my fears and anxiety. Having Deya and LEO’s support system gave me a sense of peace of mind because I know Deya and everyone at LEO care as much as I would for my son. I am very grateful to have known Deya personally and to have my son be part of the wonderful community that she created!
I have known the founders of the Leonard Education Org. for decades. They have put their heart and soul into making Le.O a success. It is apparent in the many successes of their student population. They show successes in their ability to choose students who best fit their programs and in the ability to gather the many Universities willing to accept the Le.O program on their campuses.
As a Professional Counselor I am happy to volunteer my time to counsel any student who feels the need to talk. I feel any donation I make whether it is monetarily or as a therapist to the students and Le.O is well worth it.
Im a nursing student studying in lebanon at BAU, due to harsh economical conditions that lebanon is going through, it was very hard pay for my university so LEO helped me pay. Im very grateful for LEO because without them I would be out of college.
I was introduced to LEO back in 2019 while I was applying to continue my undergraduate studies at the USA, I was accompanied by LEO step by step to excel in the process and for me to obtain the right resources and opportunities to thrive as an international student in America. while applying to be a part of LEO I didn't realize the amount of love and sense of family that I would be getting while being a member of that community, today I am a part of a large networking group that provides tips and advice that I could leverage from as an academic.
I am beyond thankful that I am able to manifest from what LEO has to offer and the guidance and comfort LEO provides to each and every member of the community.
When I graduated from high school in 2018, I knew that it will be so difficult for me to complete my education and study medicine as my situation was very complicated and My family's financial situation is very bad. I discovered L. EO and contacted Deya', explained my situation to her, and she was so willing to help me. She offered me all kinds of support. L. EO helped me apply to many scholarships, helped me register for their needed exams and payed for everything but sadly nothing worked. We kept trying for almost two years, I was starting to lose hope but L.EO never gave up on me. Until I finally got the chance to study medicine in Mansoura University in Egypt in November 2019. L.EO now is paying for my tuition and are supporting me in every possible way. Without their help, I would never be able to study what I wanted and follow my dreams, and I am so grateful. All L.EO members are amazing, always helping and supporting each other, we are just like a big family! I am so proud to be a part of L.EO community, and I am so thankful to have such amazing people in my life!
Leonard Education organization feels like a home to me. The organization emphasis on the importance of education for young Arabs and Palestinians who face struggles and conflicts accessing education abroad. The organization keeps the students together and closer by sharing their success stories and accomplishments during the year to keep everyone motivated. In addition, the financial support offered by the organization helps a lot of students continue their education and face the obstacles encountered living away from home. I would like to thank the founder and owner of the organization, Deya' Dresner, and anyone who contributed to help the organization grow. She puts in a lot of effort and hard work by keeping us safe and supported. I am thankful and grateful to be a part of the Leonard Education organization community, and I would love to see this organization expand and offer help for a lot of students to support their education and future. I would also love to volunteer and participate in the future to help this organization grow in any aspect!
The transition into college life is typically a challenging and stressful process, let alone if you had to move across continents and adapt to a new culture on top of that. Being a part of LEO’s community helped a lot in my first semester at the University of Rochester. Not only by helping me to cover some of the expenses but also by offering the guidance and mentorship I needed the most at that time. Starting with the small things such as what to carry in my heavy suitcase to more significant things on how to get through the process of getting a visa, picking a major, and adapting to the American culture. As a LEO member, I had the advantage of having a smoother transition into university, and, therefore, could focus more on building my new life there. moreover, LEO is a lot more than an organization, it is a community; A community of equally passionated students and advisors. Being a part of LEO always motivated me to help others and be a better version of myself.
L.E.O.Love EveryOne; this is how we all at LEO see and treat each other and all people around us. LEO supported me in lots of my lifetimes the hard and the good ones! The support is not limited to a particular area of interest. A half-year with LEO may seem not a long period but it helped me to focus on my targets; I am so happy to have such a family and be a part of the fast progress and growth is achieving. planning has always been a part of our common aims because it builds the perfect results for all. Miss Deya, such a model! what a beautiful face full of energy and life. Thank you for getting out the best version of each of us.
The connection this organization has with the students is unimaginable and very very special. It's all about understanding the transition that these students go through and the willingness to helping them out whenever needed.
LEO is not just an NGO, LEO is a family, a community, a place for marginalized Palestinians to support each other and have each other's back. It's run by an incredibly passionate, sympathetic and proactive board members.
Deya makes herself available 24/7 and is always informed about everybody's situation. She checks in on everyone and makes sure they are doing okay. This is all besides the financial and logistic help offered to all LEO members.
I am equally lucky and proud to be a part of this amazing community.
I got to know Leonard Education Organization and the wonderful people behind it as a student and as an active volunteer. All of our students volunteer and help the organization in some way depending on their abilities. I thought until I am able to financially support the organization I can volunteer to give back to it and sustain the programs. I work with the students during the application process, mentor them and be a resource for any of them if needed. I also manage the financial accounts of the organization including Quickbooks, PayPal and Paragon Solution as well as manage the CRM Every Action platform. In the last few years I have witnessed first hand the tremendous and genuine work that Deya and other volunteers put to help our community. During my volunteer work we increased our donations and engagements almost 300% while adding new universities and opportunities for our students. I learned so much and am proud of the achievements we accomplished!
For Palestinian youth, I believe there are few opportunities that can be as life-changing as joining L.E.O. It’s true that many educational and professional opportunities we’re helped to are available to us on our own, but the arduous, hectic procedures and possible prejudice against us make every application process a burdensome bet with small guarantees of success. However, with L.E.O, we’re very effectively helped to translate our sincere efforts into achievement.
Personally, I received great help from L.E.O to ascertain that I filled my college and financial aid applications in the most appropriate manner, and I believe this was fundamental to getting accepted into a prestigious college with a suitable financial aid package.
Upon arriving in the U.S., I realized how different my experience abroad will be as a L.E.O Scholar: I immediately found fellow L.E.O students to connect with, and to mentor me in several aspects of moving-in that would’ve otherwise -somewhat disoriented me! They were very helpful in learning how to navigate the several aspects of academics, extracurriculars, and personal life here. I would certainly highlight how L.E.O also allowed me to access and explore more of the U.S. and its culture.
A really interesting aspect of my status as a L.E.O scholar is my opportunity to remain connected with my home countries, Palestine and Jordan, and the struggles faced by people there -which I was subject to myself. I always have the opportunity to discuss and reflect on these struggles, and to think of the roles I may assume in addressing these issues in the future with the qualifications and experiences I’ll gain here. This is facilitated by the many activities we’re encouraged to participate in and by the discussions we can have -which often possess an intimate nature- with our director Deya and the many other members of L.E.O, who together build a Palestinian identity representative of the several Palestinian backgrounds exisiting today.
LE.O is more than an education organization to me, it is more like a family. As an international student in the US, I know that LE.O is always there for their students through bitter and sweet times. LE.O and Deya take any chance to encourage, celebrate, and motivate their student's achievements. Most importantly, LE.O will also be there to listen to their students and supporting them mentally, emotionally, and financially. Knowing that Deya is always there and ready to listen and help the students generates a precious sense of comfort within us.
Thank you LE.O and Thank you Deya for all your efforts.
I support LEO because it is an holistic and authentic organization. It recognizes that each of the students it supports is full of potential. While holding it students accountable, LEO provides the emotional (and more) encouragement that allows these students to thrive and to succeed. LEO goes “above and beyond” to support the students and to work with the institutions so that it is a “win-win”. LEO is “available” — and that makes all the difference.
LEO is an outstanding nonprofit run by an incredibly passionate human being, Deya. I remember when Deya started LEO from the ground up. Her passion and determination to help us, Palestinian students, was unwavering. Her mission has always been to lift up and support Palestinian students who otherwise would not have had a fair chance at education and in turn at a decent life. The work that LEO does is unquestionably crucial. For the students LEO serves, their family and ultimately their life and legacy.
I know what it's like to not have a chance, I know the feeling of helplessness. It's been the reality of everyone around me growing up. I know what happens when kids are not afforded the opportunity to get a decent education and most importantly, I know what happens to those kids when they grow up.
I have had the honor of watching LEO impact student lives and I could not be more inspired of the work that LEO does. LEO gives me hope, that there are still humans that genuinely care about other humans. LEO inspires me to be a better person. I was supported by LEO at one point, and I'm now back as a Donor because I strongly believe in LEO's values and mission. I've seen first-hand the remarkable impact LEO has on their students and I cannot wait to see more of that!
I can never be thankful enough for LEO's work of uplifting a marginalized community. A community I am part of and I want to see prosper!
I'm delighted to support LE.O, an organization founded on the idea that education matter to personal development, international understanding, and peace among nations. By assisting the most needy, capable and deserving young people to get scholarships, and by supporting them through college and beyond, LE.O makes a real-world difference every day.
I’ve been with LEO for almost 3 years. I learned about the great work the nonprofit does through a friend, who shared his story with me and how LEO has saved his college career. These were his words “LEO was fighting for me.” For many of us, LEO has provided us with a sense of home and safety in this country, given the political climate in the US currently. With LEO, you wouldn’t feel alone, and that somebody is always on your side. There is always somebody to monitor you with anything that regards your presence in the US from your education to your different needs, such as health insurance, finding a host family during a holiday, and much more. They’re always updating us of the political and social atmosphere in the US, giving us guidelines on how to move along. Finally, the director of the organisation is more of a friend to everybody in the community. She’s available to help with emergencies and non emergencies 24/7/365 even if it was late at night or if she was on a vacation somewhere. Can’t tell you enough about LEO! LEO is great!!
I joined LEO in the mid of November 2019 .. I had troubles with my visa to study in the US, and I already lost the chance to get there the fall semester of 2019... With the problems happening in Lebanon too, it was kind of impossible to go and join the university in the spring semester... I was almost losing my motivation of achieving what I always dreamt of. LEO was there! They guided me, reminded me of what’s important and helped me to get there with the energy needed... It is not just a nonprofit, it was family! All the staff and members are family, they check on the each other and support each other if anyone needs any help. I am a student who left his home and family to study abroad, and LEO staff and members were my family here!
I joined the Leonard Education Organization (LEO) in May 2019 upon my graduation from UWC Red Cross Nordic, Norway and it's been amazing having this amazing team to have my back! They've supported me psychologically, financially as well as with planning for what's ahead. Since joining the LEO community, I secured a full ride to Concordia College, MN, and was given mentored through every major step I was in. Most notably, getting accustomed to Senegal as a part of my Global Citizen Year bridge year program in September 2019, as well as, evacuating Senegal due to Covid-19 and arriving in Jordan followed by the Gaza Strip (which took 72 days of mandatory quarantine and self-isolation before arriving at my parents' place). LEO has made every transition smooth and almost stress-free for me and I cannot imagine how different my experience would be without the blessing of having LEO's assurances and community spirit.
Pic 1: TikTok duet with LEO executive director, Deya' Leonard Dresner, during quarantine in Amman, Jordan.
Pic 2: Assist teaching English at Lycée Malick Sy de Thiès, Senegal.
They are always with us in every small detail, you can find help and support when you need it.
They treat us like a family members not only Like students.
It is just so good to be with them ❤️
LE.O has been on my side through every little detail of my educational journey! They have supported me both financially and emotionally as I navigated graduate school. I am indebted to LE.O for everything I have achieved in the past years. I love being part of the community because it makes me feel like I have a family ready to offer me unwavering support and guidance. I am lucky to part of this amazing community and I can not wait to see it grow and be part of that growth!