Mammoth problems, one bite at a time
The Elephant in the Room
Lubao, Philippines is a low-income rural region facing severe infrastructure problems: outdated or absent sewage systems, a lack of community spaces such as libraries and health clinics, and limited access to clean water and economic opportunity.
Taking the First Bite
In partnership with the city council of Sto. Tomas, ETE has pinpointed key areas in need of community development. We’ve teamed up with Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Environmental Design to lead the first design phase of Lubao’s infrastructure improvement.
Next Bite: Action on the Ground
Professor Ray Senes and 15–20 senior students from Cal Poly Pomona will travel to Sto. Tomas in February 2025. Their mission: conduct in-depth community research and produce a 40-page conceptual design for infrastructure development. Select Ethnic Studies students will also contribute valuable socio-economic insight to refine the implementation plan.
Our Commitment
- "100% of donations go directly to community action."
- "No admin fees — volunteers power every dollar.”
Our Mission: Making a Difference, One Step at a Time
EatTheElephant.org was founded on the belief that significant global challenges can be overcome through focused, pragmatic action. We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to identifying critical needs within communities and implementing effective solutions in areas such as infrastructure development, economic empowerment through seed-funding, and essential community support.
Pragmatic Action, Real-World Impact
Early action and tangible results. We understand the urgency of community needs and strive to implement solutions efficiently, cutting through excessive red tape. Our approach focuses on making practical contributions that have a direct and immediate impact on the lives of individuals.
How We Work
Investigate
Investigating community issues on the ground.
Develop
Developing pragmatic, actionable plans.
Build
Building sustainable infrastructure and support.
Meet Our Team
Kenneth Woodall
Founder & Director
Kenneth is a visionary educator and founder of Meridian Prep and Eat the Elephant, where he builds bridges between underserved student communities and global industry leaders. After redesigning a national counseling program that dramatically improved admissions to top universities, he launched mentorship models that have impacted hundreds of students now thriving in medicine, finance, tech, and engineering. Kenneth’s work focuses on equity, leadership development, and real-world solutions to systemic barriers in education and opportunity.
Crystal Zell
Volunteer Coordinator
Crystal supports and organizes volunteers, helping drive community-based projects through collaboration and engagement.
Sheila Vatan
Outreach Lead
Sheila leads outreach initiatives that connect underserved communities with life-changing educational opportunities.
Ryan Vatan
Marketing & Communications
Ryan oversees marketing and communication strategies, amplifying the impact and mission of Eat the Elephant.
Pavel Petrov
Operations Manager
An award-winning urban designer, Pavel brings global project experience and mentors students in real estate and infrastructure development.
Ray Senes
Academic partner
A renowned professor and designer, Ray leads international design collaborations and brings decades of expertise in sustainable, community-driven development.
RR Dimla
Community Liaison
A nurse and public official, Richard leads grassroots health and education programs in the Philippines and serves as ETE’s international coordinator.