Often, it's a seemingly normal occurrence that sets in motion a series of events, that lead to something great.

For Peter Simmons, CEO of GraceWorks Myanmar Inc, that occurrence was hearing that a friend was travelling to Myanmar to do some mission work. It was the year 2000, and curious to see a third world country; Peter decided to accompany his friend.

Upon his arrival, Peter was confronted with stories of babies and young children dying needlessly from lack of medicine. The dire poverty and desperation he witnessed impacted him so deeply that on his return to Australia, he felt compelled to act.

A successful businessman, Peter approached his business contacts, friends, Rotary clubs, organisations and other like minded individuals, and before long, GraceWorks was conceived.

Repeated trips to Myanmar, the creation of a board of members, connections with Asia Heart Beat and Orphans Hope - US based aid organisations, all helped to establish GraceWorks over a four year period.

Now, eight years since Peter's first trip to Myanmar, GraceWorks has over 500 passionate and committed supporters around Australia, New Zealand, England and Myanmar.

What sets GraceWorks apart from other aid organisations is their focus on assisting groups and communities rather than individual children or families. Their objective is to help as many people as possible while keeping administration costs to a minimum.

But that's not all that makes GraceWorks unique. Donations to GraceWorks can be directed to a particular 'Program' by the individual or organisation making the donation.

Would you prefer to see your donation help build Education Centres? Then simply let GraceWorks know and your money will be allocated accordingly.