Wvft 1 2015 eng

WORLD VISIONMAGAZINE

SPRINKLES OF HOPE AND BOUNTY INSPIRATION LEADS TO A DREAM RAISING HOPE ABOVE THE FLOODWATERS

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29th

2 World Vision Magazine

CONTENTS

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Chitra Thumborisuth, Bunjongsek Supsopha, Wiwat Srithanangkun, Prasop Khunsithi, Veeva CharnvitidkulEDITOR: Janice Evidente | CONTRIBUTORS: Somluck Khamsaen, Duangporn Choktippattana, Paiwan Benjakul, Prakit Lelaviwat, Titi Laohapinyojantra, Jay Mark Mijares | ARTWORK: Wittawat Suttipongkeat | TRANSLATOR: Monrudi Chantawichianwat

WORLD VISION magazine’s purpose is to inform and create better understanding of the work of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, and to report back to our many valuable supporters. For donors, child sponsors, churches, government agencies and organisations in the private sectors who have been supporting WVFT’s work, helping the disadvantaged, The Magazine also encourages all people who have not yet considered supporting our work, to take the rewarding step of joining WORLD VISION.

All rights reserved. Copyright © 2015 by World Vision Foundation of Thailand.

PHOTO CREDIT: Front: Albert Yu Back: Prakit Lelaviwat

READ MAGAZINE ONLINE OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AT: www.worldvision.or.th

3 Message from the National Director

4 Events

10 Sprinkles of hope and bounty

14 Raising hope above the floodwaters

18 The day that I became a farmer

12 Inspiration leads to a dream

16 Bright future for Somrit

19 Community study life

3World Vision Magazine

Greetings of peace and goodwill to everyone!

As we look back at 2014, it had been a year of countless blessings for World Vision Foundation of Thailand. One of these is the long years of partnership with you which allowed us to celebrate our 40th year together in this fulfilling ministry of helping those in need. Last year WVFT’s work in providing assistance to children has grown. Somrit’s story on Page 16 clearly shows the success of the Bachelor’s Degree project. He studied until he completed the Bachelor’s Degree he desires. Today he is happy and successful in his life as a medical technologist. Many ultimately became teachers of needy children in the mountainous region. But 2014 also reminded us of the devastation brought by the Asian tsunami as we mark the 10th Boxing Day Anniversary on December 26. Despite the massive loss that Thailand and other Asian countries experienced that fateful day in 2004, the succeeding years proved our resilience, our sense of community, and our capacity to quickly bounce back from the dreadful calamity. Five ADPs were birthed as an aftermath of the disaster. WVFT continues to support these programme areas in Kapur, Takuapa, Tai Muang, Aow Leuk and Kuraburi. It’s been a decade but our efforts are still as visible as they were in the past. The story of Mr Kamonporn on page 10 shows how World Vision enabled him and his community recover from the tragedy. We pray that we will be spared from this kind of adversity for the coming time. We wish this new year will bring us good tidings as we reach new heights together with your unremitting support. May God bless the work of your hands and bring you success in all your plans.

Chitra ThumborisuthNational Director

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World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) hosted the special event, ‘Celebrating 40th Anniversary Together - For Children, For Change, For Life’ to thank donors and sponsors for their continuous support. Hundreds attended the event, observing the 6 exhibition rooms that showcased WVFT’s works as well as bought handicrafts from WVFT’s project areas. Socialites and celebrities alike turned up as well, such as Kit Kanachai Bencharongkul, Mario Maurer and Ken Phupoom Phongpanu. The anniversary events were held on 7 June and 11 October, 2014 at Siam Pavalai Theatre, Siam Paragon. In presiding over the events, Mrs Chitra Thumborisuth, WVFT’s National Director said, “WVFT started off with small-scale operations, yet today we are helping over 100,000 children in 44 provinces. Thank you for entrusting us to fulfil the children’s dreams.” Both occasions saw several sponsors gracing the stage to meet their sponsored children for the first time, where they were moved to tears. An Acapella show by 20 children from Sangkhlaburi district, Kanchanaburi province gave the event a memorable closure.

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2 1. Sponsor Sukitti Kittipassorn with his sponsored child

2. Honorary sponsors , guests , children and WVFT management

3. Yongyut Taingaowson (left) former sponsored child of Uraiwan Somchit (right)

4. Chalermsak Kanchanawar in , former WVFT sponsored child with a boy he’s currently supporting through WVFT

5. Ken Phupoom (second from right) meets his sponsored child with the MCs, Mick Baromwut (far left) and Benz Pornchita (far right)

6. WVFT Ambassor Mario Maurer with the WVFT sponsors who bought elephant-doll blankets

7. Thai singer Mai Charoenpura with her sponsored children

EVENTS

WVFT STRIDES INTO FOURTH DECADE OF SUCCESS7 June The highlights were concerts performed by veteran singers Christina Aguilar, Rose Sirinthip and Sirivimol Charoenpura (Mai). Enlivening the ambience was also a tango show by a sponsor, Ms Sukhumarn Boonchu and the Tango Bangkok group. 11 October It was a star-studded event, with two celebrities, Mick Boromwuti Hiranyatithi and Benz Pornchita Na Songkhla hosting the event. Heartthrob actor Ken Phupoom also ascended the stage to greet his sponsored child, followed by soulful mini-concerts from singers Kob Songsit Rungnopakunsri, Lipta band and Panadda Reungwut. Amongst the WVFT sponsors who graced the event was Mario Maurer, who took the opportunity to meet his 9 year-old sponsored child, Kunakorn (Sant). The boy had travelled from his hometown in Baan Pae district, Chiang Mai province especially to meet Mario. After giving WVFT a warm blessing on its 40th anniversary, Mario invited his fans to buy elephant-doll blankets, sold for 400 Baht each. Proceeds raised from the blanket sales will go to WVFT’s Breakfast for Kids project which provides nutritious morning meals to 3,000 children ages 2-6 years old across 7 provinces in the north and northeast of Thailand.


KFC HANDS HAPPINESS AND NUTRITION TO STUDENTSA team of 40 volunteers from KFC Thailand and Central Restaurants Group Co Ltd collaborated with World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) to conduct CSR activities at Baan Klong Bon School in Pong Namron district, Chantaburi province from 24 – 25 September, 2014. Ms Anita Sony, Yum Restaurants International (Thailand) Ltd’s Director of Human Resources and Vice Chairman for KFC Thailand’s CSR activities received a cosy greeting from Ms Bunjongsek Supsopha, WVFT’s Marketing and Fundraising Director as well as Mr Amnaj Chayangkanon, Baan Klong Bon School’s Director. As part of its CSR project, Yum Restaurants International (Thailand) and its franchisee, Central Restaurants Group donated 2 million Baht to 4 schools in WVFT’s network. The donation, raised from a KFC luncheon fund went to Baan Klong Bon School in Pongnamron district, Chantaburi province, Baan Kok Tan School in Phusing district, Sri Sa Ket province, Baan Pon Daeng School, Dong Luang district in Mukdahan province and Mong Kua Border Patrol Police School in Umphang district, Tak province. The project assigns students to grow vegetables, cultivate mushroom, raise fish and collect chicken eggs. The schools will convert these harvests into nutritious lunch for the students. The surplus produce can be sold for supplementary income, which will be used to further expand the schools’ agricultural initiatives.

EASY BUY BRINGS SUSTAINABILITY TO REMOTE AREAMr Takeharu Uematsu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Easy Buy Public Co., Ltd and a team of 20 staff participated in ‘Easy Buy… for Sustainable Rural Development through Life-Changing 1-Rai Integrated Agriculture’ activity under ‘Easy Buy… for Thai Society’ project. Easy Buy pursues the project in collaboration with World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) in several areas including Baan Sum Noi village in Loei province’s Pha Khao district, Baan Makok School in Sakaew province’s Tapraya district and Baan Na Dee Hua Phu in Nakhon Phanom province’s Baan Pang district. Mr Ruengrit Danbrasit, WVFT’s Regional Manager, Northeast Region Zone 1, represented WVFT at handover ceremonies that took place throughout 2014. Easy Buy and WVFT provided vegetable seeds, mushroom nursery, fingerlings, piglets and chickens in combination with agricultural tools to the schools and communities. The project aims to equip students to grow the agricultural produce and use them to cook lunch for other students. The produce can also be sold to outsiders to generate supplementary income, thus paving way for sustainable development in the future.

EVENTS


ONE WORLD FUTBOL REACH REMOTE SCHOOL IN THE MOUNTAINSMr Marcos Purty, Managing Director of General Motors Thailand and Chevrolet Sales Thailand led a team of local media to deliver 280 One World Futbol and 2,000 Easy English books to Baan Huay Ku School in Wieng Kan district, Chiang Rai province recently, which is located in World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT)’s Pyapipak project area. They were greeted by Mrs Chitra Thumborisuth, WVFT’s National Director and Mr Thammanoon Kitnukorn, Baan Huay Ku School’s Director. Baan Huay Ku School provides kindergarten through to secondary-level education, to 483 students. Mr Thammanoon said, “The students are benefiting tremendously from this activity. Thank you for your support.” Renuka Saesong, a grade 9 student said, “I’m happy to see that the school now has so many new books as they are very useful.” “I appreciate how important it is to encourage kids to get lots of exercise and a good education. It will make a positive difference in their lives,” Mr Purty added. Mrs Chitra shared, “WVFT has fostered a strong network with communities and schools to reach children who need the most help. I would like to thank Chevrolet for fulfilling their needs.”

1. The children received the power of play from One World Futbol2. Mr Purty (middle right) Mr Thammanoon (second from

left) and Mrs Chitra (far left)3. Renuka (left) and her classmates are thrilled about the

school’s beautiful library

1. Mr Supachai (back row, middle right), Mr Anusorn (fifth from right) and Mr Uthai (fourth from right)

2. The youngsters at Wat Chai Sriyaram child care centre enjoyed a healthy breakfast from Tesco Lotus

3. Employees from Tesco Lotus bring breakfast for the children

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EVENTS

TESCO LOTUS VISITS BREAKFAST FOR KIDS PROJECT IN LOEI Mr Supachai Kulachokvanich, Tesco Lotus Corporate Affairs Regional Manager and his team visited 3 child care development centres to observe World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT)’s ‘Breakfast for Kids’ (BFK) project. Mr Anusorn Somsiri, WVFT’s Assistant National Director and Mr Uthai Homorn, Non Po Daeng sub-district governor received the team at Wat Chai Sriyaram centre in Pha Khao on August 2014. Tesco Lotus supports the BFK project for 2 years now which is implemented in 8 districts across 7 provinces in Thailand. Coming from poor families, children from these areas often do not eat enough resulting in weakened immune system and stunted growth that eventually reduces their ability to learn. The Tesco Lotus team observed the progress of the BFK project and donated children’s learning tools to Wat Chai Sriyaram, Wat Baan Perm and Wat Uthai Banpob development centres.

For more information on the ‘Breakfast for Kids’ project, please visit http://www.worldvision.or.th/breakfast4kids_eng.html


1. Acting Sub Lt Dr Thaweesak (7th from right) with WVFT and Isuzu UNT staff

2. Isuzu UNT donors treated the school children to lunch3. The executives jointly released catfish, entrusting them to

the students’ care

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ISUZU UNG NGUAN TAI HANDS OVER WATER RESOURCE FOR DEVELOPMENT

Isuzu Ung Nguan Tai Group (Isuzu UNT) handed over “Water Resource Development for Consumption and Lunch Programme” project overseen by WVFT to Ban Hinsoong School in Sirindhorn district on August 2014. Isuzu UNT’s Vice President, Mrs Souwanit Pitaksith is joined by her team Mr Theerayut Pitaksith, Mrs Usa Pitaksith, and Mrs Thantip Leevutinun. Mr Yongyuth Meechai, the school Director, Acting Sub Lt Dr Thaweesak Namsri, Ubon Ratchathani Primary Educational District Area 3 Director with Dr Bunjongsek Supsopha, WVFT’s Marketing and Fundraising Director gave the generous donors a warm welcome. The project aims to develop clean water source for schools and communities, in addition to equipping schools with agricultural resources and knowledge which potentially could expand to youth agricultural group and lunch programme of the school. The Isuzu UNT executives enjoyed interacting with Ban Hinsoong students. They released catfish, planted vegetable seeds, constructed a borehole, installed the water filter system, and gave away learning tools and sports equipment to students.

GIANT BOOKS AT THE 3RD PFIZER CAMPThe WVFT’s 3rd life skills development camp under Pfizer Thailand Foundation’s support was attend by 98 students aged 6-12 from Ban Tu Tae Ram and Ban Peeyai schools in Satun on November 2014. The primary graders spent 3 days of fun and learning at Bara Resort with the theme ‘Satu…Padu’ or ‘ join forces…unity.’ The children from the two schools were combined in 5 groups and were expected to respect others and their abilities, avoid offending others, build relations and work as a team. As a highlight, the groups were tasked to produce giant storybooks aimed at improving children’s reading and teamwork. They did the project observing the overarching values of promoting respect, synergy and harmony. When the five jumbo books were completed, the compliments simply flowed. “I really like the books. The children did beyond our expectation,” says Sanong Usa, camp speaker and Ban Wang Prachan School teacher. “It was really fun. I gained new experiences and learnt many things. We received feedback on what we did well and things we could improve,” said Wiyuda, Grade 5 student of Ban Tu Tae Ram School. “The children have become more courageous after the camp,” says Wiwan Songkuea, Ban Peeyai School teacher happily. It was another fruitful and meaningful Pfizer and WVFT partnership to develop children’s skills.

EVENTS


THE TOUR OF HOPE CYCLING ADVENTURE TO SUPPORT EDUCATION OF THAI CHILDRENDr Hans Bock, Tour of Hope Chairman, led a team of international cyclists pedal 800 kilometres from Udon Thani to Chiang Mai to hand over a new library, 20 bicycles, helmets and tool kits to Ban Mae Taman School and 75 bicycles to Ban Pang Mai Dang School in Mae Tang district. Both schools are within World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) ’s project site. Dr Bunjongsek Supsopha, WVFT’s Marketing and Fundraising Director, Mr Mongkol Putthang, Chiang Mai Primary Educational Service Area Office 2 Vice President, Mr Nuttawat Dondee and Mrs Mali Phongphanphaibun, directors of Ban Mae Taman Ban and Pang Mai Dang schools, respectively, school faculty, community leaders and parents welcomed the cyclists. The WVFT’s Library for Kids worth 995,000 Baht is supported by the cyclists. It is complete with shelves, computers and furniture benefiting 289 students, ages 4-15, aiming to instill on children a love for reading and eagerness to learn. “Your joint efforts bring change in children’s lives, improve the students’ knowledge and reading ability and allow students who live far to arrive early,” says Mr Nuttawat. Dr Hans said, “I’m glad to do a cycling tour in Thailand. We organize tours to donate money given to us by our friends to contribute to educating Thai children. I’m glad to see the library and lovely children. I want children not only cycle to school but also have fun cycling.” The cyclists also taught the students to bike safely then visited the library they donated at Ban Pang Mai Dang School in 2011. “There were no book shelves and books were old then. Now we have new books. Thank you,” Siwapon, Grade 8, said. “I never had a bicycle. With this I can bring my younger sister to school daily,” said Grade 2 student, Labi. The Bicycles for Kids project aims to ease the difficulty of students who live far by providing bicycles on loan until they complete grade 6. They return the bikes for the next group of students to benefit. The project also teaches them to care for the loaned bikes.

GLOBAL FUND GIVES MONEY TO WVFT TO COMBAT MALARIAWorld Vision received artemisinin-resistant malaria fund from Global Fund aiming to raise awareness on malaria epidemic, reduce new cases and fight artemisinin-resistance. Roughly 200 million people worldwide are infected with malaria annually and around 600,000 people die of the highly communicable disease each year. A report from Thailand’s Bureau of Vector-Borne Diseases in 2013 revealed that more than 25,000 were infected and artemisinin-resistant cases were recorded in the Thailand-Cambodia border. Mr Sarawut Rachasrimuang, WVFT Operations Director, cited the importance of working closely with other regional countries for prevention and control.“The goal is to help people to gain knowledge and learn methods in working with communities and ways to engage with malaria-affected communities. WVFT is actively working with migrant workers on AIDS, TB and malaria,” stressed Mr Rachasrimuang. Migrant workers living for less than 6 months in WVFT’s project areas in Sob Muey and Umphang, and Mueng and Mae Sarieng sub-districts in Tak and Mae Hong Son provinces, respectively, are the main targets. Staff were trained and distribution of insecticide-treated nets, dissemination of information through health discussions, booths, leaflets, and campaigns were already instigated. Tests were also conducted in suspected cases, malaria patients identified and treated at a mobile clinic. “Artemisinin-resistant malaria has been detected among people living in Thailand-Myanmar border for 4-5 years. This project is crucial in preventing the spread of malaria, reduce cases, ensure people understands and know how to protect themselves from the vector-based disease,” said Dr Thet Myo Tun, WVFT’s Regional Artemisinin Containment Initiative-Malaria Project Manager.

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1. Mr Sarawut Rachasrimuang gives an opening speech2. Atmosphere inside the meeting room during the

training Tour of Hope gives bicycles to children at Ban Mae Taman School

EVENTS

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OPENING AND DEDICATION CEREMONIES OF WVFT BUILDINGS IN CHIANG RAI AND BANGKOKMr Kevin Jenkins, World Vision International (WVI) President, together with Dr Saisuree Chutikul, World Vision Foundation of Thailand’s (WVFT) Board Chairperson and Mrs Chitra Thumborisuth, WVFT’s National Director, presided over the opening ceremonies of WVFT Chiang Rai Development Center and WVFT Training Center in Pracha Uthit road, Bangkok. WVFT’s Board Members and senior leadership team along with representatives from the Foundation of the Church of Christ in Thailand, The Evangelical Fellowship of Thailand, Chiang Rai Second Church District and the Baptist Church Foundation cordially graced the buildings’ opening and dedication ceremonies on 17-18 November, 2014. The dedication of WVFT Chiang Rai Development Center was held on 17 November while WVFT Training Center in Bangkok took place on 18 November. All honoured guest at the Chiang Development Center signified their support by

individually planting a tree at Center’s vicinity. “I feel honoured to join the dedication ceremonies for both buildings in Chiang Rai and Bangkok. I pray for this building to be a beacon of hope to the poorest children, families and communities in Thailand,” said Mr Jenkins as he congratulated the management, board and staff. “In the end, a building is just a building. It must be infused with the goodwill and enthusiasm of the people who serve in it to have a real meaning. I dedicate this building, our staff and our future to God,” he added. Dr Saisuree thanked Mr Jenkins for flying across the world to join the inaugural ceremonies. “In the last 40 years, WVFT staff has worked hard to achieve our mission. I hope for the buildings to continue to serve the work of God and for all WVFT staff to receive His blessings,” urged Dr Saisuree.

1. WVFT Board Directors and guests of honour during the dedication of WVFT Training Center.

2. (From left): Dr Saisuree, Mr Jenkins and Mrs Chitra lead the ribbon cutting ceremony

3. The choir singing a song at the dedication of WVFT Training Center.

4. Guests of honour joined together in worshipping God

5. Rev Sayam leads the opening and dedication of WVFT Chiang Rai Development Center

6. Mr Jenkins unlocks the Center’s doors7. WVFT Board Directors and guests of honour

in front of the Chiang Rai Development Center

EVENTS


Story: Janice Evidente

Photos: Albert Yu

บอกเล่าผ่านเรื่อง

Mr Kamonporn Pinnasak, 51, is hard working. Prior to the tsunami, he had three income streams. He grew vegetables, cultured sea shells and crabs, and worked as a sign artist in Khao Lak.

He was in Kha Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park when he saw a black wave approached and hit inland. It left the park muddy when the water withdrew back to the sea. ‘I saw the second surge higher than the first, I ran away to a much higher place,’ he recalled. He found his family safe in the mangrove-strewn village of Thai Din Daeng. But the seashells and crabs nets were washed away. But the mangroves which served as natural barriers protected his farm. It was his only hope left when the sign shop also closed down. But he has to work harder because farming demands a lot of time. ‘I went with other village farmers in an educational trip that World Vision arranged. We

SPRINKLES OF HOPE AND BOUNTY


observed a new irrigation solution to efficiently water farm crops in Kuraburi. World Vision introduced us to rebuild our livelihood after the tsunami stripped most of us with our source of living,’ he said. On our return, World Vision provided us water tubes and sprinkler heads. The community embraced the new technique and we still benefit from the system until now, we found it really helpful,’ he said. Before they used the sprinkling method, Kamonporn hired people to daily water the plants. With the irrigation system, he is able to save around 10,000 Baht per month from wages. This also allowed him to attend to his other crops and family needs. He adapted the same technology to supply water to his plots of string beans, ridge gourd, and eggplants. ‘Our gourd daily harvest alone averages 50 kilos a day,’ he happily reported. ‘I come on weekends to help. I especially love the long beans,’ says Kamonporn’s 11-year-old daughter, Korakod. ‘My father teaches me how to grow vegetables,’ says Korakod who wants to pursue Islamic Studies when she grows up. Despite years of exposure to different environmental factors, the irrigation tubes are still functional. ‘These are still the original tubes provided by World Vision. They have withstood the years.’

The i r income was gradually replaced by the family’s diversified crops. ‘I raise chicken layers, too,’ says Ponsini, Kanorporn’s wife. ‘This was provided by World Vision,’ she added. She sells chicken eggs but keeps some for her family. Now, Kanorporn grows looseleaf lettuce in his backyard. ‘Since I don’t have to be at my vegetable farm most of the time, I grow lettuce on the side. Income is good since harvest is year-round,’ he said. •

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Fahsai is teaching her friends how to read in Thai


With her wide, bright smile, Fahsai successfully finished teaching her classmates read basic Thai. “Great job,” said Sisuda Suwankao, Hope for

Children in Crisis project staff making Fahsai grin wider. Fahsai is doing what she has dreamed to do. “I want to be a Thai teacher, says Fahsai, 12. Born in Thailand, Fahsai is Burmese. Her parents migrated to Thailand to work as construction workers in Phuket. She grew up and spent her life at the construction camp. Every day while her parents went out to work, she would clean the house, wash the dishes and do other chores. Her daily activity changed when her mother learned about the learning opportunity for Burmese children at the Hope for Children in Crisis (HCC). The HCC in Patong, Phuket not only helps and organises life skills activities for Thai children but also partners with other non-governmental organisations to help educate Burmese children. “When my mother told me that I am going to school, I was very happy. I want to study,” says Fahsai. Fahsai went to school for the first time. “Fahsai is among our first batch of students. She is very diligent,” says Sisuda. When Fahsai started school, she could only speak Mon language. Her classmates who can speak Thai act as her interpreter in school. But it did not take long for her to speak Thai. She is now used to the accent and is no longer dependent on others. In fact, she now even acts as interpreter to new students and her mother. “I’m happy to go to school,” says Fahsai. When her mother wakes her up at 7 in the morning, she gets up from her bed quickly, washes up and fetches her white

school uniform dress and navy blue pleated skirt to wear. She then prepares her meal for lunch. She walks out of the house with her favorite fried chicken for lunch to wait for a public transport. When Fahsai reaches school, she sweeps the hall floor where they sit on. “I did not tell her to do this; she volunteered. She likes to help,” affirms Sisuda. Fahsai sits in the front row so she could see the blackboard and clearly hear what the teacher says. She likes Thai subject best and gives her wholehearted attention to it. She is often chosen to lead the reading of Thai words on the board. She was nervous at first, but she was able to overcome to nurture her dream. “I like to read Thai. I borrow books from my teacher to take home to read,” says Fahsai. Although Thai is her number one delight, she also likes Arts, Burmese and English subjects, too. At the end of her classes, Fahsai and her friends unhurriedly board the transport to bring them back home. They often hear the constant reminder of their teacher to lock their house doors if their parents are not yet home. Fahsai obeys the instruction because she knows that it is for her safety. While she waits for her parents to come home, she cooks rice beforehand so that the family can eat their evening meal together at six in the evening. “Sometimes while we eat, my mother advises me to be a good child and help others. She tells me that she wants me to work in a hotel. But then I tell her that I want to teach children.” Fahsai’s voice becomes emphatic at the end and then turns to smile at her mother. Her mother smiles back and nods her head. •

Fahsai and her motherFahsai and her friends

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By Paiwan Benjakul

INSPIRATION LEADS TO A DREAM


by Jay Mark Mijares

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RAISING HOPE ABOVE THE FLOODWATERS


Right in the heart of the ancient Thai capital of Ayutthaya, sits Bang Po Nueanga School on a rice farm. Sena district is a low land area with elevated roads leading to the school. The 2011 massive flooding affected 8 million

people in 60 out of 77 provinces across Thailand. Ayutthaya was one of the hardest hit. “This ground was like a vast ocean,” said World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) staff member, Kobchai. Education was put on hold — children lost their books, facilities were damaged and schools were shut down for weeks. While school was out, many children found themselves playing in floodwaters, unaware of the risks to their safety and health. Realizing the hazards, communities began to take ownership of minimizing the risks during the wet season. Some families bought paddle boats in case evacuation is advised. Some replaced the foundation of their stilt houses with concrete to withstand floods. And some rearranged the layout in their homes to minimize damages. World Vision, in partnership with the local authorities of Ayutthaya and the multinational Seagate, through its “Give To Asia” project, implemented resilience projects across 12 schools in the province — among them is Bang Po Nueanga School. Through the resilience projects, schools were relocated to safer ground for children to ensure education is not halted even during the rainy season. Facilities were improved like the elevation of laygrounds and water towers, strengthening of the school’s stilt foundations, and improving toilet facilities and sewage systems. These were some of the initiatives that helped shape the safe school transformation. “I can now be in school even when it rains, I come to school in a paddle boat! I don’t have to miss my classes and friends again,” said 8-year old B.M. with a grin. WVFT National Director, Chitra Thumborisuth, Ayutthaya Vice Governor, Panya Srathongoon and representatives from Seagate recently graced a hand-over ceremony at the Bang Po Nueanga School. Khun Chitra said, “Flooding has become a yearly affair for this school, hence we need to find alternatives to adapt to such change. Raising the school building will provide a conducive environment that enables children to continue their education undisturbed even when floodwaters inundate the ground below.” •

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When Somrit or Nueng was only 9 years old, he lived with his mother in a rural village that grows rice and tobacco. Nueng’s parents separated

when he was still too young to remember. In order to feed the family, Nueng’s mother worked in a rice farm in exchange for unmilled rice. His mother gathered vegetables on the roadside or in the dike for their family meal. On some days when she did not get anything, they would only have sticky rice with chili and salt. Nueng walked to school near his home every day. On days when school is off, Nueng helped his mother transplant rice seedlings and till the soil. This hardship continued until Nueng was selected into the child sponsorship programme of World Vision. World Vision provided him with uniforms and school supplies which greatly relieved his mother’s burdens. When Nueng was in grade 5, his mother got sick and died. At the age of 11, he felt hopeless and had no one to depend on for guidance. Nueng then lived with his aunt. Due to lack of maternal care, Nueng remembered how he was filled with love and encouragement from WVFT sponsorship staff. The care that he received from his American sponsor has also touched his heart. He eventually overcame sadness when he participated in youth summer camp, had fun in field trip and got excited learning new things. This also inspired him to press on in his schooling. His hope and dream of becoming a medical doctor was ignited. “If I did not receive sponsorship support, love and care from my sponsor, my life would be very hard and I might not be able to study,” Nueng recalls. When he was a teen, Neung took part in leadership training as part of WVFT’s youth activity. “I like sports and playing local musical instruments such as flute and salo. I enjoy

them and I had more friends.” Neung is also good in numbers. He often helped his friends with their Mathematics problems after school. When Nueng finished his secondary school, all he wanted was to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming a doctor but he did not pass the university entrance examination. He was unwilling to abandon his dream so he decided to take the medical technology exams instead. Determined to succeed, Neung sought for scholarship assistance from WVFT through its Bachelor Degree Project. Through the Project he was able to complete his medical technology course at Chiang Mai University. “If not for the scholarship, I would not be able to study at a university,” says Nueng. Now 23, Neung works as a medical technologist at a private hospital in Phuket. He works in the laboratory doing diagnostic tests in analyzing and detecting diseases and medical conditions. Today Nueng is happy and proud with his job and is able to help patients at the hospital. For 14 years, Neung was supported by World Vision and was able to complete his Bachelor Degree. Although he did not become a medical doctor, Nueng got so close to his childhood dream in assisting doctors by providing them important laboratory information about their patients’ condition. “Thank you. Your help has given me the opportunity to build a simple yet secure life.” WVFT child sponsorship also provides economic development projects to help villagers earn more aside from their main source of income. Support comes in forms of supplementary livelihood like sewing, livestock raising and longgan growing. The additional income helps them to send their children to school. •

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BRIGHT FUTURE FOR SOMRITBy Somluck Khamsaen

Twin sisters Cherry and Grape, age 5, live with their grandmother, Sawik, 70 in Phu Sing district, Sisaket because their parents separated. Their mother left to live in Bangkok while their father is stricken with a debilitating illness. He decided to enter monkhood according to the local belief to recover from his illness. Grandma Sawik relies mainly on her monthly 600 Baht government pension to sustain and support her young granddaughters. She works as harvester in exchange for rice. They often do not have enough food to eat. Many times the grandchildren would clamor for sweets but all the grandmother can do is to respond to them with unpromising words, “We have no money, where can I get it?” Their small shack is a dismal representation of their poverty. Only three sides of the hut are covered with elephant grass while the front of the shack is left open. The roof is thatched with grass where many portions leak. They typically gather in a drier corner when it rains. Last year’s floods caused much damage to the shack. Some neighbors helped repair their cottage but they lost some of their belongings to the flood. They lived by what was left. Every elderly person wants to see their grandchildren happy, get a high level education and a good future. For Sawik, however, her dreams for Cherry and Grape will remain remote and distant apart from your help. The children need your support. Today, we would like to invite you to tell people around you to give support to children like Cherry and Grape so that they can have a bright future, education and school supplies. These needy children will have an opportunity to live with greater purpose and meaning. Please decide to sponsor a child continuously for only 20 Baht a day or 600 Baht a month. Then you will be able to make a child smile again.

BUILD UP HER DREAM…TO A NEW LIFE

Yes! I want to showkindness to a child in need.

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Name (Mr/Mrs/Miss) ........................................................................ (Block Letters)

Address .................................................................................................

............................................ Postal Code..............................................

Telephone Number.........................................Fax...............................

Mobile Phone.........................................Date of Birth ....../....../.......

E-mail......................................................................................................

I want to sponsor a child (please indicate):

¡ One ¡ Two ¡ Three ¡..... ChildrenResidents of Thailand Sponsorship Payment¡ 650 Baht/child/month ¡ 1,950 Baht/child/3 months¡ 3,900 Baht/child/6 months ¡ 7,800 Baht/child/year

International Sponsorship Payment¡ 750 Baht/child/month ¡ 2,250 Baht/child/3 months

¡ 4,500 Baht/child/6 months ¡ 9,000 Baht/child/year

I cannot sponsor a child right now, but here is a special gift of

........................................... Baht to help children in need.

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¡ VISA (every bank) ¡ MASTER (every bank) ¡ AMEX ¡ DINERS

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As a sponsor of a child/children, I authorise WVFT to arrange regular deductions from my credit card as I have stated in the beginning of the form

until WVFT receives any further notification of cancellation or changes.

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Charge to my bank account: (WVFT will send you a form soon)

¡ Bangkok Bank ¡ Krung Thai Bank ¡ Kasikorn Bank

¡ Thai Panich Bank ¡ Krung Sri Ayuthya Bank

Crossed cheque payable to World Vision Foundation of Thailand

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Bank Branch Account Number¡ Bangkok Thonglor 206-0-43600-9

¡ Krung Thai Ekamai 053-1-10632-2

¡ Kasikorn Thai Ekamai 059-2-40974-7

¡ Siam Commercial Ekamai 078-2-00965-5

¡ Krung Sri Ayudhya Sukhumvit 63 361-1-02033-3

¡ UOB Thonglor 801-1-07026-4

¡ Thai Military Ekamai 152-2-00300-1

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Date of money transfer................................................................................... After the Money transfer, please send a copy of your money transfer together with this reply form to WVFT via postal mail to the address below or via fax at 0 2022 9203-5. We

will send you a receipt to confirm your payment afterwards.

Thank you. WVFT cannot send you a receipt if we do not have a copy of your money transfer and reply form.WVFT is the 59th humanitarian organisation under the declaration of the Ministry of Finance. Your donation is tax deductible yearly according to the law.


I never dreamed of being a farmer. I know that farming is not an easy job. It is even more difficult if farming does not run in the family or if no land

has been passed on to you as an inheritance. But I’m fortunate to know Ngaw, a farmer in Bo Thong sub-district, Thong Saen Khan district who was willing to teach me how to grow organic rice. I looked at the flooded water confined in the rice paddy. I put my foot down into the paddy field that has been prepared for me as a farmer that day. My brown boots sunk down deep into the mud as I stepped in. I threw a bunch of 3-inch tall rice seedlings straight down into the mucky soil. My mud-splattered boots moved warily backward in a straight line as I did it. I remarked softly that this is no easy task to get a plate of rice. Ngaw turned to me and smiled then handed me a new tray of rice seedlings. “Be careful not to take too big bunch of rice seedlings. Throw them with a spacing of 25 centimetres between them in order for the rice plant to sprout and grow well,” she quickly instructed me as soon as she saw what I was doing. Ngaw, 45, adopted the traditional method of farming long ago. She also faced similar problems like other farmers — she didn’t have enough money upfront at the start of each planting season, meaning she and other farmers resorted to borrowing money on interest.

The cost of growing rice goes up invariably. Aside from rice seeds, farmers need to buy fertilizers and pesticides to ensure a bountiful produce. But when it’s time for harvest, price for the grains drops, leaving farmers with not enough money to feed their families. Debts are gradually incurred from one planting season to the next. Ngaw knew that depending on rice farming alone would not sustain all the needs of her family. There must be a better alternative. The answer to Ngaw’s problem came upon a World Vision intervention programme. As parents of sponsored children, farmers in her village were taught how to make bioorganic fertilizer themselves. This has reduced their fertilizer costs by half ! The homemade fertilizer does not contain harmful chemicals and which in turn reduces the risk of health hazards. “I don’t hope to be rich. I just want my family to have enough food to eat and to be safe from the ill effects of chemicals. That would be enough for me,” says a happy Ngaw. I became a farmer for just a day but I took with me lessons for life: to be successful in your work, you must love what you do. You must persevere through difficulties and find ways to overcome problems, and finally, adapt new techniques to achieve better results. Time to serve-up some organic rice. •

Organic rice from Sinuan’s field

SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

THE DAY THAT I BECAME A FARMERBy Somluck Khamsaen


Interns at McGilvary College of Divinity at Payap, Chiang Mai presented their internship experience to their trainers recently.

“The internship is a 3-year partnership between WVFT and McGilvary College to give interns the opportunity to observe and engage with a community in Omkoi as part of their study on how to better serve and promote community well-being when they take on church leadership roles in the future,” explained Vallaya Panichpatana, WVFT Christian Commitment Manager. Learning is no longer confined in the university and the church. Their community exposure made them understand the realities of life to become effective leaders. Dr Sattanan Boonyakied, McGilvary Dean, saw the

value of WVFT’s community engagement in gearing up the students. WVFT on the other side, viewed this as a chance to eventually benefit World Vision’s ministry in communities. The six interns learned to plan their work, conduct surveys, map a community, and analyse situations. “It was a great experience. I learned to be a good servant,” says Mr Poompat Sae Chang or Pad, 24. The project is also church related in building relationships with community. Professor Chaiyapon Panya, says, “Students now think methodically and feel more confident in working with the community. I believe that the project is a success.” •

COMMUNITY STUDY LIFE

1. Dr Sattanan Boonyakied, dean of McGilvary College of Divinity in Payap and Internship Project Advisor

2. Vallaya and the college students who participate in the project

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SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

By Somluck Khamsaen

The WVFT Development Center in Chiang Rai was officially inaugurated on November 17, 2014. Its purpose is to sustain community engagement and extend World Vision’s ministry intending to host groups that need less-expensive but offers essential facilities to hold stay-in activities like training and seminars. It also aims to partner with community people to facilitate training and provide products and services in order to keep the income amongst WVFT programmes and the communities. The Center, built in 2014 by World Vision Foundation of Thailand, is located 9 kilometres away from the heart of Chiang Rai and is easily accessible by private and public vehicles.

WVFT DEVELOPMENT CENTER OPENS IN CHIANG RAI

Accommodation and Facilities• Accommodation and Facilities • 2 dormitories with 300-bed capacity• 2 double occupancy and 2 3-bedroom

bungalows• dining hall for 350 guests • conference hall with 300 seating capacity• 6 meetings rooms that can hold 40 people

each• vocational building equipped with

tools for workshops, presentations and demonstrations

The Centre welcomes communities , government and non-governmental agencies, churches, and tourists and is also open for bookings from neighbouring border countries and World Vision offices. Visit WVFT Development Center at:1/1 Moo 7 Wiengnoue Sub-Distr ict , Wiengchai District, Chiang Rai ProvinceFor bookings and inquiries, please contact us at: Tel: 053 768 040-3 or Fax: 053 768 040

our vision for every child, life in all its fullness:our prayer for every heart, the will to make it so.

We are Christian.We are committed to the poor.

We value people.We are stewards.We are partners.

We are responsive.

World Vision Foundation of ThailandWorld Vision Foundation of Thailand, Training Center809 Soi Suphanimit, Pracha Uthit Road, Samsen Nok,

Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310Tel. +66 2022 9200-5 Fax. +66 2022 9203-5

www.worldvision.or.th [email protected]

Wvft 1 2015 eng

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Transcript of Wvft 1 2015 eng