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September 1, 2024

KAZUKO KUMON

Having a heart for the unfortunate and disabled children
– Kazuko Kumon

Kazuko Kumon’s heart for the children started when she visited the civil war-stricken West African country in 2001 and saw children dying daily. She moved to Kenya and noticed that children with disabilities were not receiving trained care and education. This absence of support suggests a need for greater social awareness about people with disabilities, leaving many families struggling.

“The spirit of helping shouldn’t be based on pity for the weak or disadvantaged,” said Kazuko Kumon,

Kumon founded The Garden of Siloam (https://gardenofsiloam.jimdofree.com/about-us/history), a facility and church ministry established on Nairobi’s bounds, wherein disabled children receive a range of support, from high-quality education to personalized health care. Those with mental and physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy and autism receive classes and rehabilitation in a fun-filled environment.

The classes are being attended by people who have received specialist training in caring for and educating children with disabilities, however, they are only limited thus, Kumon started training her personnel from scratch. She believes that everyone is born with the power of living and that these vulnerable and poor children need a helping hand to bring such power out.

Kumon strongly holds that.

“By receiving appropriate treatment and education early, many children can utilize the potential they were born with. I think the one thing I can do as someone who has come from Japan is to use tangible empirical images to convey to Kenyans what the children are capable of and what kind of society it is possible to create.”

With the increasing number of children who are unfortunate and abandoned, someone like Kumon is a big help. These children, especially those with special needs, must be protected and given a healthy environment, proper education, and nutritious food to grow properly. These are the same quality programs that our Mary K Yap Foundation team continues to develop and extend year by year to those orphan communities, especially in Myanmar, facing dire lifetime adjustments.

Source:

https://www.japan.go.jp/tomodachi/2019/spring2019/empowering_children.html

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/12/29/national/christian-doctor-wakayama-offers-hope-disabled-kids-kenya/

By admin

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

August 25, 2024

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Yangon, Myanmar – The first annual Charity Bazaar, hosted by St. Augustine Catholic Church, was a vibrant, one-day event filled with compassion, community spirit, and a shared purpose. The Foundation participated with a dedicated booth, connecting with attendees and sharing our mission to uplift orphaned children across Myanmar through our social development programs. The atmosphere was lively and heartfelt, with visitors from diverse backgrounds coming together for a meaningful cause

During the event, the Foundation successfully recruited over 80 new volunteers who expressed genuine enthusiasm for lending their support to a noble cause. These passionate individuals are now part of a growing movement dedicated to supporting the advancement and well-being of orphaned children throughout Myanmar. In addition to volunteer sign-ups, we took the opportunity to proudly promote the upcoming charity film, Myittar, a heartfelt production sponsored by the Foundation in collaboration with our production partner, Mandalay Productions. The film was created to raise awareness and support for children in need.

The bazaar was also a rich gathering of like-minded exhibitors and community members. We engaged with other organizations promoting humanitarian initiatives and enjoyed the warm company of booth operators selling nourishing meals and traditional Burmese delicacies. The day not only strengthened our network of support but also deepened our resolve to build brighter futures for the children we serve.

By admin

INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT

May 24, 2024

Cynthia Lauper

A True Colors supporter of LGBT youth
– Cindy Lauper

Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper, born on June 22, 1953, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and activist. She has been celebrated for her humanitarian work, particularly as an advocate for LGBT rights in the United States. She also was part of the USA For Africa music project, singing one of the most famous parts of the 1985 “We Are the World” song. Lauper has sold over 50 million albums and 20 million singles; Lauper’s acting skills earned her Emmys and Tonys.

“My mother said I was a little odd as a kid. I was alone a lot, but I didn’t feel alone.”

Her charitable efforts were acknowledged in 2013 when she was invited as a special guest to attend U.S. President Obama’s second-term inauguration.

Lauper has been an LGBT rights supporter throughout her career, campaigning for equality through various charities and gay pride events worldwide. Lauper stated that she became involved in gay rights advocacy because her sister Ellen is a lesbian and because Lauper herself was passionate about equality. Lauper cites her sister Ellen as a role model. Her song “Above the Clouds” celebrates the memory of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man beaten to death in Wyoming. As a member of the Matthew Shepard Foundation Board, Lauper devoted a concert tour in 2005 to promoting the Foundation’s message.

“My music is about a joyful experience. I’ve learned that if you can affect other people, you should.”

She also co-founded the True Colors tour for Human Rights throughout the United States and Canada in June 2007. One dollar from each ticket was earmarked for the Human Rights Campaign, which advocates equal rights for LGBT individuals. In April 2010, Lauper’s True Colors United launched the Care campaign to help get straight people more involved in LGBT rights.

In 2012, Lauper started True Colors United after learning that while 10% of American youth identify themselves as LGBT, up to 40% of American homeless youths do so. The organization works to end youth homelessness, focusing on the experiences of LGBT youth. She set up the True Colors Residence in New York City for LGBT homeless youths. The 30-bed facility offers temporary shelter and job placement help.

“You always have to remember – no matter what you’re told – that God loves all the flowers, even the wild ones that grow on the side of the highway.”

The Foundation applauds Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper, whom we idolized as teenagers. She has become a champion of social causes, bringing equality and accessibility for many LGBT youths and homeless communities.

Our team is pleased to recognize Ms. Lauper on the International Day of the LGBT as one of the role models for bringing positive change for all LGBT youths who have been discriminated against and ridiculed. The Charity film titled “Myittar” which our organization partnered with in collaboration with Mandalay Productions has a small supporting character embracing love for the LGBTQ community.

By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

April 5, 2024

H20Hope: Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

H20Hope: Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

San Francisco, CA, USA – The Foundation is proud to introduce Campaign 8: H20Hope, a bold step forward in our mission to protect and uplift orphaned children through sustainable access to clean water. Set to launch in 2025, this heartfelt campaign will focus on delivering safe drinking water, enhancing sanitation infrastructure, and promoting hygiene education within orphanages across underserved regions. Our work will begin in Myanmar, where over 100 registered orphanages face daily struggles to access clean water, including eight orphanages we visited over the past year, highlighting the most urgent needs. Clean water is a basic necessity and a gift of dignity, health, and hope for a better tomorrow.

H20Hope is part of our enduring commitment to advancing the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Every child deserves the right to safe, accessible water, yet today, too many orphaned children live with the constant risks of unsafe water and poor sanitation. Through H20Hope, we respond with action and compassion, determined to bridge this gap and build a foundation of health and opportunity for the children who need it most. Our vision for H20Hope is made possible through the spirit of collaboration. By partnering with donors, strategic partners, and caring communities, we can make clean water more than just a dream – it can become a shared reality. More than installing wells or building systems, this campaign will empower orphanages with hygiene education and long-term maintenance support, creating a cycle of resilience and hope that lasts for generations.

With H20Hope, we are doing far more than quenching thirst—we are nurturing futures. Each drop we deliver echoes with the promise of health, opportunity, and a life free from preventable hardship. Together, we can build a world where every orphaned child in Myanmar, and beyond, wakes up with fresh water, renewed hope, and a future filled with endless possibilities.

By admin

CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS

March 29, 2024

H2OHope: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

Introducing the Mary K Yap Foundation’s H2OHope Campaign: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

At the Mary K Yap Foundation, we proudly announce the launch of our groundbreaking H2OHope Campaign: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives Campaign. This visionary initiative represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of orphanage communities worldwide. With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of access to clean and sustainable water, our campaign aims to achieve dual objectives essential for the holistic well-being of these vulnerable populations.

Our primary focus is to establish reliable and safe water sources, ensuring that orphanages have continuous access to clean water for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and other essential needs. We are dedicated to promoting comprehensive water education programs that empower orphanage residents with essential knowledge and skills in water hygiene practices, sanitation, and conservation. Through this multifaceted approach, we strive to create lasting positive change and improve the overall health and quality of life for orphanage communities around the globe.

Key Challenges and Solutions:

Access to Safe and Sustainable Water Sources: One of the critical challenges orphanage communities’ faces is the lack of access to clean and safe water sources. Many orphanages rely on contaminated water, leading to waterborne diseases and health complications among children and staff. To address this challenge, the H2OHope Campaign will work towards implementing sustainable solutions such as water purification systems, well drilling or repairs, and rainwater harvesting systems. By providing reliable access to clean water sources, we aim to improve orphanage communities’ overall health and well-being.
Water Education and Hygiene Promotion: Another critical challenge is the lack of water education and hygiene promotion practices within orphanage communities. Children and caregivers are at risk of waterborne diseases without proper education on handwashing, safe water storage, and basic sanitation measures. Our campaign will focus on educating orphanage communities about the importance of hygiene and sanitation through workshops, training sessions, and educational materials. By empowering orphanage communities with knowledge, we aim to reduce waterborne diseases, improve overall health outcomes, and foster a culture of cleanliness and hygiene.

Our Plan of Action:

The Mary K Yap Foundation and our non-profit partners are committed to taking decisive action to address these water sanitation challenges. Our plan of action for the next three years (covering 2024 to 2026) includes the following work for orphanages in three phases:

- - Collaborating with local communities and experts to assess water needs and implement sustainable solutions.
  - Providing financial support and resources to install water purification systems, repair wells, and establish rainwater harvesting systems.
  - Conducting water education workshops and hygiene promotion campaigns to empower orphanage communities with knowledge and skills.
  - Monitoring and evaluating the impact of our interventions to ensure long-term sustainability and positive outcomes for orphanage communities.

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Join us in our fundraising campaign #H20Hope to transform lives through clean water. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of orphaned children and contribute to a healthier and brighter future for all.

By admin

INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT

March 24, 2024

Miss World Venezuela

An Orphan who became a Miss World Venezuela
– Ivian Colmenares

There are so many successful orphaned stories all around the world.

The story of Ivian Lunasol Sarcos Colmenares, a Venezuelan model and beauty queen, who was orphaned at the young age of 8 and was raised by nuns, is one of the popular orphan stories. So why did a young little girl raised by the nuns become a successful beauty queen?

Ivian Lunasol Sarcos Colmenares was born on November 6, 2011, in London, United Kingdom, and unfortunately lost both of her parents when she was 8. She was raised by nuns in a covenant in Cojedes for five years. This period was so influential that she once dreamt of becoming a nun. She eventually gave up the idea when she realized she wanted the fame and success that being a model could bring.

Ivian auditioned as Miss Amazonas in her country’s national beauty pageant, Miss. Venezuela 2010, on October 28, 2010, and was crowned Miss World Venezuela. She also won the Most Beautiful Face Award.

On November 6, 2011, Ivian won the 2011 Miss World pageant at the Earls Court Exhibition Centre in London. She was awarded as a third runner-up during the Miss World Beach Beauty and the fifth runner-up in Miss World Top Model, becoming the eventual winner of Miss World. She became the sixth woman from Venezuela to capture the title. In a press conference after her victory, she said,

“This has taught me that life, although it may be bad, doesn’t have to end badly. Although I no longer have my parents, it has taught me to be stronger. I want to carry on doing the wonderful work that ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ and the Miss World organization does and to help people in need. I want to help people like me.”

The foundation is proud of the successful orphans who have a passion and drive for excellence in every task they are given. Your outlook in life should not depend on your history in life. Ivian made a turnaround in her life in that no matter what happened in her early years; she had a positive outlook that she could be a successful model one day. Indeed, she achieved her dream of becoming Miss World 2011.

By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

March 10, 2024

BOD Business Trip to Myanmar

My first visit to Myanmar surpassed all expectations. The warm hospitality, rich culture, and natural beauty left a lasting impression. Excited for its bright future!

In a recent corporate news update, we are excited to share insights into the business trip undertaken by our distinguished Board Member, Dr. Jean Luc, to Myanmar, also known as the Golden Land. This trip marked a significant milestone as Dr. Jean Luc explored Yangon for the first time, adding to his extensive travel experience across more than 50 countries.

The journey commenced from the scenic city of Boudreaux, France, where Dr. Jean Luc embarked on a flight that connected him to Singapore before reaching the vibrant city of Yangon. The purpose of his three-day visit was multifaceted, with a primary focus on attending the private screener of “Unbroken Ties,” also known as “Myittar.” This collaborative charity film project between the Mary K. Yap Foundation and Mandalay Productions aims to channel its net proceeds towards benefiting underserved and vulnerable children, especially those in orphanage communities.

Dr. Jean Luc was joined by more than 60 friends and family members, including the Myittar Cast and Crew, led by our Unit Director of Myittar, Legendary Myanmar Academy Winner Actress Grace Swe Zin Htaik, Academy Award Actress Htun Eaindra Bo, Academy Award Winner Director U Soe Moe, Academy Award Winner Director Zaw, along with Chairman, U Kyi Soe Htun of the Myanmar Motion Picture Organization (MMPO), and popular local social media influencers and audience members from ages of eighteen to twenty-four years who joined on an exclusive private screener in Yangon at the Mingalar Gold Class venue hosted by Mingalar Group’s Founder and CEO, U Zaw Min.

The itinerary was meticulously planned, featuring strategic meetings with stakeholders such as Legendary Myanmar Academy Winner Actress Grace Swe Zin Htaik, the Unit Director for the Charity Film, the Foundation’s Executive Director, Peter K Yap, and the Program Manager, Meme Lwin to discuss upcoming festival participation in the USA and Europe, and what is needed to amplify the film’s charitable impact further. Other discussions were held in parallel about the prospects of establishing the first union association, the Myanmar Orphan Association (MOA), to unite all the supporters, NGOs, and INGOs under one umbrella to bring awareness to the needs of vulnerable children and communities living under orphanage care.

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Dr. Jean Luc’s engagements extended beyond the boardroom to meaningful interactions with local communities during his stay. A notable highlight was his visit to a local Twantay orphanage, where he had the opportunity to connect with over 45 orphaned children. This experience underscored the Foundation’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. Furthermore, Dr. Jean Luc actively participated in the launch of the H20Hope Campaign, an initiative championed by the Foundation to promote clean water initiatives. The campaign aligns seamlessly with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, reflecting the Foundation’s dedication to sustainable and impactful philanthropy.

On the last night of Dr. Jean Luc’s stay in Yangon, the atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and celebration as he graciously joined the Foundation team for a memorable evening. The setting was delightful, with the aroma of sizzling meats and savory spices filling the air as everyone gathered for an all-you-can-eat Burmese barbecue feast. Dr. Jean Luc, known for his affable nature and genuine interest in fostering connections, engaged with team members, exchanging insights and stories from their respective experiences during the trip.

Dr. Jean Luc’s business trip to Yangon showcased his global engagement and highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to meaningful projects that create positive change. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our mission to make a difference in the orphanage communities we serve.

By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

March 4, 2024

Leadership in Action: Dr. Kouyoumji at Ebenezer Compassion Association

Leadership in Action: Dr. Kouyoumji at Ebenezer Compassion Association

San Francisco, CA, USA – We were deeply honored to welcome Dr. Jean Luc Kouyoumji, one of our esteemed board members, on his inaugural visit to Myanmar. His journey to the Ebenezer Compassion Association—nestled in the remote rural area of Twantay Township, approximately 90 minutes north of Yangon—was a profoundly moving experience that underscored the heart of our mission.

The Ebenezer Compassion Association provides a safe and nurturing home for approximately 55 children from diverse and vulnerable backgrounds, including orphaned children from northern Myanmar and others from surrounding communities. In this haven of care, children are supported through access to education, emotional guidance, and essential daily needs, which help them grow with dignity and hope. Throughout his visit, Dr. Kouyoumji connected warmly with the children, listened to their stories, and took a close and thoughtful look at the association’s needs, particularly regarding access to clean water and mental wellness support. His presence uplifted spirits and brought renewed momentum to our upcoming #H20Hope Clean Water Campaign initiatives for 2025.

Dr. Kouyoumji’s visit affirms our commitment to empowering every child with opportunity, resilience, and care. We are deeply grateful for his passionate support and visionary leadership as we continue building a brighter, more compassionate future together. See Video Highlights #H20HOPE+

By admin

INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT

February 28, 2024

Jennifer Anne Garner

Advocate of Early Childhood Education

Jennifer Anne Garner is an American Hollywood award-winning actress born April 17, 1972, in Houston, Texas. She was voted “Most Beautiful Woman” by People Magazine in 2019. Her father, William John Garner, worked as a chemical engineer for Union Carbide; her mother, Patricia Ann English, was a homemaker and later an English teacher at a local college.

She is a strong advocate for Early childhood education activism. In 2009, Garner became an artist ambassador for Save the Children USA, promoting national literacy, nutrition, and early education efforts. Since 2014, Garner has served on the board of trustees for the organization, advocating for early childhood education. As an ambassador, she frequently visits with families involved in the organization’s Early Steps to School Success program, which coaches’ families to help children learn in the early years.

“My mom grew up in poverty in Oklahoma – like Dust Bowl, nine people in one room kind of place – and got out of poverty through education. My dad grew up without a dad, with very little, and he also made his way out through education.”

Jennifer Garner donated $10,000 to West Virginia’s Promise – The Alliance for Youth. The donation will match AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers with local groups serving children in the summer. Summer Associate AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers serve at nonprofit organizations, schools, and state agencies to provide the Five Promises to children and youth. The Five Promises are Caring Adults, Safe Places, A Healthy Start, An Effective Education, and Opportunities to Help Others. In addition, the VISTA volunteers facilitate education programming to prevent summer learning loss for students, STEM programming, reading, arts, healthy futures, gardening, and summer feeding sites.

“My parents came from a poor background and worked their way up because of education. They saw it as a way to succeed. So, they cared about me getting straight-A grades growing up.

One of our special projects, “Myanmar Orphans (www.myanmarorphans.org),” introduces a unique set of learning for orphan youths by bringing English and Computer courses to the orphanages at an early age targeting boys and girls over twelve years old. Like how Jennifer Anne Garner has done with her early childhood programs in partnership with Save the Children USA, our volunteering teachers are introduced to our Road2Ace Campaign, which promises to organize English learning programs to enrich the orphanage communities by teaching the children how to read and write English and focus on Education at an early age of development. For more information, click Road2Ace campaigns.

“Your happiness is your own responsibility.”

By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

February 14, 2024

The Nine Campaigns: A Unified Movement for Orphaned Children’s Futures

The Nine Campaigns: A Unified Movement for Orphaned Children’s Futures

February 14, 2024 – San Francisco, CA – The Nine Campaigns initiative was created with a clear and heartfelt purpose: to bring lasting hope and meaningful support to orphaned children through targeted, impactful programs. The initiative has been guided by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Focusing on strategic areas of need, Nine Campaigns seeks to bridge critical gaps and lay the foundation for brighter, more secure futures.

At the core of our mission are three educational campaigns—#Each1TeachOne, #H.S.Diploma, and #Road2Digital—which have been longstanding efforts to expand access to learning for vulnerable communities. These programs address educational disparities by equipping children with the essential knowledge and practical skills they need. Through mentorship, high school diploma support, and digital literacy programs, we aim to empower young minds with the tools they need to pursue their dreams and build independent, fulfilling lives.

Beyond education, our commitment extends into social development and nutrition. We proudly champion initiatives like #NourishHope and #TeddyBear4Hold, two campaigns designed to meet children’s emotional and physical needs. Through these efforts, we ensure that children feel loved, supported, and consistently nourished with healthy meals. By nurturing the body and the spirit, we foster a more profound sense of security, emotional well-being, and belonging for those who need it most. Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to launch a new wave of campaigns that continue to expand our holistic support system. New initiatives include #H20Hope, which aims to provide access to clean drinking water; #FirstSeed, introducing sustainable gardens in orphanages; and #LifeLine, which is focused on increasing access to basic vaccinations. In addition, we are proud to introduce #OrphanRelief, a vital campaign dedicated to supporting orphanages during emergencies caused by natural disasters and other crises. By responding swiftly during hardship through our web of active volunteer networks, #OrphanRelief will help protect children’s safety and ensure their essential needs are met when they are most vulnerable.

Together, the Nine Campaigns form a unified movement dedicated to uplifting and protecting orphaned children across all dimensions of their lives. We strive to create lasting change and a future filled with hope through education, nourishment, emotional support, health services, and emergency relief. Every campaign is a testament to the belief that small, consistent efforts can lead to powerful, life-transforming outcomes for the children we serve.

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SOCIAL BOND

By admin

Contacts

KAZUKO KUMON

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Cynthia Lauper

H20Hope: Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

H2OHope: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

Key Challenges and Solutions:

Our Plan of Action:

Miss World Venezuela

BOD Business Trip to Myanmar

Leadership in Action: Dr. Kouyoumji at Ebenezer Compassion Association

Jennifer Anne Garner

The Nine Campaigns: A Unified Movement for Orphaned Children’s Futures

HEAD OFFICE:

PROJECT OFFICE:

PROGRAMS

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SEAL OF TRANSPARENCY