admin – Page 2 – Mary K Yap Foundation

December 1, 2024

Charity Film Campaigns at RC Church

Charity Film Campaign Takes Center Stage at St. Augustine Church Event

Bahan, Yangon, Myanmar – We are excited to announce our joyful participation in the Charity Bazaar at St. Augustine Catholic Church this Sweet December—a heartfelt annual tradition that unites people from all walks of life in the spirit of giving. The event brought together a diverse and compassionate group of church members, community leaders, embassy representatives, and NGO partners, all eager to contribute to meaningful causes that uplift and inspire. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, purpose, and the unmistakable energy of a community working together toward a better tomorrow.

Throughout the day, a wide range of exhibitors showcased their charitable missions—each booth representing a shared commitment to service, from supporting displaced families and vulnerable children to promoting education, health, and empowerment in underserved communities. Visitors came not only to enjoy the festivities but with a clear intent to support and engage. Many generously offered their time, donations, and heartfelt encouragement, reminding us all that change begins with kindness and collective action. Their presence underscored the beauty of a community that gathers and gives with open hearts.

The Foundation was proud to be among the exhibitors, using this vibrant platform to promote the upcoming release of our charity film—a creative endeavor rooted in advocacy for orphaned children in Myanmar. With the support of more than 15 dedicated volunteers, our team passionately shared the mission behind the project, raising awareness and fostering meaningful conversations. Thanks to their tireless efforts and the overwhelming generosity of attendees, we successfully sold over 100 presale tickets to the film, with all proceeds going directly toward our initiatives for the welfare, education, and empowerment of orphaned youth.

This event was more than a fundraiser—it was a celebration of shared purpose, a reminder that extraordinary things can happen when communities come together with compassion and intent. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Charity Bazaar organizers, every visitor who stopped by our booth, and our incredible volunteers who helped make our campaign a success. We look forward to continuing this journey and invite everyone to stay connected as we approach the film’s official release, marking the next chapter in our mission to bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most.

By admin

INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT

November 24, 2024

Australian Prime Minister: J. McEwen

“An Orphan Becomes Australia’s 18th Prime Minister.”

(1900–80). Farmer and politician John McEwen was prime minister of Australia from Dec. 19, 1967, to Jan. 10, 1968. He served for 37 years in the House of Representatives.

McEwen was born on March 29, 1900, in Chiltern, Victoria, Australia. Orphaned at a young age, he and his sister were raised by their grandmother. He left school when he was 13 years old to help earn money for his family. At age 18, he joined the army, although World War I ended before he was sent overseas. Upon his discharge, McEwen bought a farm and settled into dairying and sheep raising before he turned to rural politics.

McEwen became a member of the House of Representatives in 1934 and served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade in Gorton’s government until he retired from Parliament in Feb 1971. During World War II, he held several ministerial positions, including deputy prime minister from 1958 to 1971. McEwen was knighted in 1971. He died on Nov. 21, 1980, in Melbourne.

Despite losing his mother and father at an early age, McEwen didn’t let it affect his ambitions in his political career. With the right determination, he successfully lived his orphaned life.

Source: John McEwen – Students | Britannica Kids | Homework Help

By admin

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

October 19, 2024

Charity Film Premieres in California

Charity Film Premieres in California at SVAPFF with Support from the Burmese American Community

Santa Clara, CA, USA – In a moving display of unity and compassion, Foundation Founder Mary K. Yap and devoted patrons from the Burmese American Catholic Fellowship (BACF)—under the Archdiocese of San Francisco and led by Father Rick Vandewater—graced the California premiere of Unbroken Ties, a powerful charity film dedicated to bringing hope and support to orphaned children in Myanmar. Held during the 10th annual Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival (SVAPFF), the premiere marked a profound moment for the Burmese diaspora and local supporters, uniting communities in a shared mission of love, remembrance, and global responsibility. The event was completely sold out and drew a diverse audience, including friends, family members, and members of the broader Asian American community.

The Mary K. Yap Foundation, in collaboration with Mandalay Productions, proudly supported Unbroken Ties as part of its global Hope for All Orphans initiative. The film, written by Mary K. Yap and directed by award-winning filmmaker Graham Streeter, tells a profoundly human story that resonates across cultures and borders. It also featured unit direction by Myanmar’s own Grace Swe Zin Htaik, an Academy Award-winning actress and cultural icon, whose involvement lent even greater significance to the project. This creative team brought to life a cinematic expression of resilience, identity, and the enduring strength of children left behind by conflict and loss.

The film’s screening at SVAPFF was not only a creative milestone but a cultural one, as it represented the festival’s ongoing commitment to spotlighting compelling stories by and about the Asian American experience. Unbroken Ties joined a robust lineup of works that gave voice to underrepresented communities, celebrating their struggles and triumphs. While rooted in Myanmar’s orphan crisis, the festival provided an ideal platform for a film that conveys a universal message of hope, healing, and solidarity. This milestone marked the tenth festival appearance for the film, further expanding its reach to audiences committed to global humanitarian efforts through the arts.

Importantly, the premiere brought together the Burmese American community from across the San Francisco Bay Area, reaffirming their role in elevating this humanitarian message to an international stage. Their presence and participation helped amplify the Hope for All Orphans projects, which continue to advocate for the educational and emotional well-being of orphaned children in Myanmar and beyond. As the Foundation looks ahead to future screenings and campaigns, the California premiere is a testament to what can be achieved when storytelling, community engagement, and compassion intersect with purpose and action.

By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

September 26, 2024

#OrphanRelief: Urgent Aids for Yagi

#OrphanRelief Campaign Brings Urgent Aid to Typhoon Yagi Survivors in Taungoo

In early September 2024, Typhoon Yagi made landfall in Myanmar, unleashing one of the worst natural disasters the country has faced in decades. The storm struck on September 9, bringing torrential rains and widespread flooding that devastated both urban centers and rural communities. Between September 10 and 13, Yagi’s remnants swept through the nation with relentless force, submerging crops and plantations, destroying homes, and displacing hundreds of thousands across 60 townships. The scale of destruction was catastrophic, leaving countless vulnerable children and families in dire need of emergency relief.

Responding with urgency and compassion, the Mary K Yap Foundation’s Orphanage Ambassador, Meme Lwin, and a committed team of in-country volunteers visited three heavily impacted orphanage homes in the Taungoo area. They hand-delivered food, medicine, and emergency donations, providing immediate support and comfort to children who had lost nearly everything. Their presence on the ground during such a critical time reinforced the Foundation’s promise to stand by orphaned communities when they need it most. This mission was a lifeline for those in need and a powerful reminder that no child is forgotten. The team’s dedication inspires hope and resilience in the hearts of the children and caregivers.

Thanks to the swift generosity of donors and the unwavering commitment of the Mary K Yap Foundation’s network of friends and partners, the OrphanRelief campaign raised over USD 3,200 within its first week. These funds played a pivotal role in our early response efforts. Beyond providing aid, the campaign has become a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of immense hardship, compassion and unity can light the way forward.

collage images - 03

collage images - 07

By admin

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

September 10, 2024

KKIFF 2024 Asian Movie Premiere

KKIFF 2024 Asian Premiere of Unbroken Ties Inspires Global Support for Orphaned Children

Kota Kinabalu, Borneo, Malaysia – As part of the 15th anniversary celebration of the Kota Kinabalu International Film Festival (KKIFF) held on September 10, 2024, the Mary K. Yap Foundation, in collaboration with Mandalay Productions—our official movie production partner—proudly premiered the Asian screening of Unbroken Ties, a powerful charity film created to raise awareness and inspire action for the well-being of orphaned children. The screening served as a heartfelt platform to highlight how storytelling can serve as a force for social change, particularly in advancing support for vulnerable communities in Myanmar.

Just a 2-hour and 45-minute flight from Myanmar, Kota Kinabalu offered a fitting setting for this significant occasion. KKIFF Founder Jude Day warmly welcomed the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s Executive Director, Mr. Peter K. Yap, who also served as Executive Producer of Unbroken Ties, along with an inspiring group of guests and festival patrons. In attendance were representatives from Good Shepherd Services, the Kota Kinabalu Women’s Business and Entrepreneur Association, and the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church administration team, all of whom brought a shared passion for humanitarian efforts and regional collaboration. Their presence added great meaning to the event, underscoring the importance of unity, compassion, and cross-cultural dialogue. The evening served as a powerful reminder of how film and community can come together to spark change and foster lasting relationships across borders.

The festival served as a gateway for meaningful dialogue, as leaders and partners explored ways to collaborate with the Mary K. Yap Foundation to strengthen initiatives supporting orphaned children, particularly in Myanmar. From access to clean water and education to emotional and social development, the conversations focused on long-term solutions that foster empowerment and hope. The premiere of Unbroken Ties was not just a cinematic event—it was a powerful call to unity and compassion, rooted in purpose and shared vision.

By admin

INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT

September 1, 2024

Compassionate Dr. 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

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

Award-Winning Singer: Cyndi 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

Campaign Goals for 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

#H20Hope: Clean Water Initiatives

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.

H2OHope (1)

H2OHope (2)

H2OHope (3)

H2OHope (4)

H2OHope (5)

H2OHope (6)

H2OHope (7)

H2OHope (8)

H2OHope (9)

H2OHope (10)

H2OHope (11)

H2OHope (12)

H2OHope (13)

H2OHope (14)

H2OHope (15)

H2OHope (16)

H2OHope (17)

H2OHope (18)

H2OHope (19)

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

Contacts

Charity Film Campaigns at RC Church

Australian Prime Minister: J. McEwen

Charity Film Premieres in California

#OrphanRelief: Urgent Aids for Yagi

KKIFF 2024 Asian Movie Premiere

Compassionate Dr. Kazuko Kumon

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar

Award-Winning Singer: Cyndi Lauper

Campaign Goals for Clean Water

#H20Hope: Clean Water Initiatives

Key Challenges and Solutions:

Our Plan of Action:

HEAD OFFICE:

PROJECT OFFICE:

PROGRAMS

GET INVOLVED

SEAL OF TRANSPARENCY