EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — When University Orthopedics X-ray technologist Francesca “Frankie” Agwunobi returned to the small village in Nigeria where she grew up, she was appalled by the poor state of their elementary school.

She brought the pictures and videos she took back to her colleagues at University Orthopedics, including Dr. John Czerwein, with whom she’s been close since they met 15 years ago. Seeing Frankie’s tears, they jumped into action.

In the interview above, Frankie and Dr. Czerwein tell 12 Health host Shannon Hegy explained what they’ve done and plan to do to help that community and how the children have shown their appreciation.

First, they raised money to replace the toilets. Then Dr. Czerwein took it a step further, donating his own money to buy the kids school supplies, fix cracks in the building, and get new desks for the children. With each of those generous donations, the kids send back videos with their thanks, jumping up and down, laughing, and holding signs thanking Dr. Czerwein.

Dr. Czerwein is a strong believer in giving back. He’s involved with local charities as well, sitting on the board of The Izzy Foundation along with Shannon.

“If you have the means to give to people who are less fortunate, it’s a win-win situation,” he said. “It of course, helps the people you’re giving to, it makes you feel better, and it also sets a good example for people around you.”

The next step in their mission to help the children in Nigeria is to build them a whole new school building. They need to raise $150,000 to make it happen, and you can help them by donating to their GoFundMe page.