Former Green Bay West High School math teacher Ward Bacon returned to his former school on May 6, 2025, to share a powerful and inspiring story with students about his recent humanitarian work supporting Ukrainian refugees.

In a heartfelt presentation, Bacon spoke about his “Mission to Poland” — a self-initiated effort that provided critical support to families displaced by the war in Ukraine. Over the past year, Bacon’s initiative has helped nine refugee families secure housing and basic needs in Poland, using funds he personally raised to cover rent and utilities for an entire year. One of the families has since returned to Ukraine, while the remaining eight have successfully transitioned to self-sufficiency.

“The war in Ukraine has uprooted millions and I felt called to do something more personal, more direct,” Bacon said. “What began as a fundraiser became a mission to give these families a stable start toward rebuilding their lives.”

Students listened intently as Bacon described the families' resilience, the challenges of navigating a foreign system, and the outpouring of support that made the effort possible. His story offered students a living example of compassion, initiative, and global citizenship.

Bacon’s visit was organized as part of the grade 11 Social Studies Curriculum - World History, Conflict and Resolution.