In June 2019, Mike Galeski appeared on American Ninja Warrior to test his physical abilities and raise awareness about the importance of quality education around the world. Mike recently told us that  “a basic education is fundamental…[and acts] as a spark to ignite a lifelong search for knowledge.” Mike and the Omaha community set a goal to generate enough donations to build a school where students could experience a high quality education and pursue their dreams. Pencils of Promise helped Mike and his peers make this a reality.

Photo description: Primary school building in Bouam Phor, Laos dedicated to the impact of Mike and his community of supporters. 

In late December 2020, the Pencils of Promise team and the community of Bouam Phor completed a five classroom school building Laos. With the help of Mike and his supporters, this school will create a high quality learning environment for hundreds of students each year and serve as a sense of pride for nearly 1,000 members of the community. But this is just the beginning — Mike has been selected to compete in American Ninja Warrior once again this year!

Photo description: Mike wearing a Pencils of Promise t-shirt in front of the American Ninja Warrior logo in 2019

This coming summer, Mike will be facing the American Ninja Warrior obstacles once again and continuing his efforts in advocating for quality education around the globe. When we asked Mike why he supports Pencils of Promise he said: “I think a lot of non-profits can get complacent and stagnant. I haven’t seen that with PoP. Adaptation, creativity, and innovation has always seemed to be its strength.”

Mike’s advocacy and leadership is making a dramatic change around the world. Are you ready to make a difference? Start a campaign now and become an advocate for quality education.