21Nov2025

Making a Difference ●Building Dreams ● Creating Impact ● Saving Lives

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HEAD OFFICE:                          548 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA 94104         USA

PROJECT OFFICE:                  Pearl Condo, Bldg A, 15 Fl., Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd.,      Yangon, Myanmar

hello@marykyapfoundation.org

US: +1 415 991 2030                 US: +1 415 799 8282                    MM: +95 9 977 66 7777

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COMMENTARIES
August 7, 2022

Standing Strong Amid Myanmar’s Challenges

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Despite the ongoing uncertainty in Myanmar, the Mary K. Yap Foundation remains committed in our mission to uplift and care for the orphaned children we have served for over two decades. These children, who face some of life’s most difficult circumstances, continue to be at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every child deserves hope, stability, and a future filled with opportunity.

As Dr. John Palmer, Board Chair of the Foundation, shared in a recent Zoom interview:

“They (the children) should not fear what will happen in the future, instead, we must take each day and pay attention to areas where they can develop new talents and skills to support their future.”

– Dr John Palmer

Board Chair of the Mary K. Yap Foundation
Daily Learning and Emotional Growth

In line with this vision, our Foundation encourages all children in our care to continue their journey of daily self-learning. Developing habits such as reading, writing, and critical thinking helps build a foundation of confidence and independence. Our local orphanage teams work diligently to provide educational materials, including books, journals, and storytelling sessions, to support each child’s development. Daw Meme Lwin, one of our dedicated Orphanage Ambassadors, has played a key role in nurturing this spirit of growth. Through her regular reading sessions and motivational talks, she helps children understand that even the smallest effort can pave the way for a “Better Tomorrow.” These acts of engagement do more than educate—they inspire hope.

Building Resilience Through Reading and Connection

Through partnerships with domestic and international donors, we have launched a coordinated effort to distribute books and educational materials to every orphanage center under our care. These resources are not just for learning—they are tools for healing. They allow children to explore stories of strength, imagination, and survival, and to find pieces of themselves in each tale.

Children who grow up in traumatic or unstable environments often struggle with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal. These issues cannot be ignored—and we are committed to addressing them head-on.

Empowering Mental and Emotional Well-being

At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we know that education alone is not enough. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on emotional well-being and mental support. Our teams maintain regular communication between children, ambassadors, and caregivers to create a circle of support and listening.

Through shared stories, meaningful dialogue, and personalized care, we work to remind each child that they are not alone. That their voices matter. And that despite the uncertainty outside, within our care, they are safe, valued, and seen.

As we continue to navigate the challenges facing Myanmar, our Foundation remains devoted to protecting the light within every orphaned child—and to ensuring that their future is one of resilience, growth, and hope.

By admin
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TESTIMONIES
June 8, 2022

In My Own Words by Naw Yu Nadi Lin

My name is Naw Yu Nadi Lin. I am 20 years old. I studied from 5th to 10th grade at the Myittar Mon Orphanage Center.

After completing 10th grade, I enrolled in a Nursing Assistant course. I have three siblings, and one of my sisters is also currently studying at the Myittar Mon Center. Today, I am working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

During my time at the orphanage, the Sisters cared for us with love and dedication, always guiding us to stand on our own. They not only taught us religious values but also practical skills, such as agriculture. More importantly, they instilled in us the value of unity, teaching us to support and care for one another like a true family. Because of the Sisters’ tireless efforts, we received tremendous support and donations from kind-hearted individuals.

When I was in 6th grade, U Peter and his family visited Myittar Mon Orphanage for the first time to donate. Their visit marked the beginning of a new chapter—the launch of the High School Diploma Education Program. By 8th grade, I was selected for this program. Since then, U Peter has not only supported us but also extended his care and generosity to orphans all across Myanmar. On this note, thank you so much, U Peter. Thank you for everything you’ve done. I apologize if I haven’t lived up to all your expectations, but please know that I am doing my best.

At the orphanage, I met friends from many different parts of Myanmar. We were happy together, sharing our joys and growing up as one family. Eventually, the time came for us to go our separate ways. I miss them deeply. Although I’m still working toward becoming a professional, I’m the eldest at home and proud to be able to support my family. I come from a broken family, and from a young age, I’ve had to take responsibility for my loved ones. During difficult times, I constantly remind myself to stay strong because I know I need to be there for them.

(Image of time with U Pete and Foundation)

When I was young, I used to tell myself, “One day, I want to be someone who helps others, just like the donors who came to support us.” Although I haven’t yet been able to give back to the orphanage directly, I’ve donated to others in need. For example, I send medicine to those displaced by war and living in the forests, often exposed to harsh weather and danger. I believe that a donation is meaningful, regardless of where it goes. I choose to help those who are in the greatest need. One day, if I become a professional, I want to be someone who can consistently offer help—not just to orphans, but to all who are suffering and in need of support.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue working hard and gain experience in the UAE. I wasn’t able to complete high school, so I’m preparing to take the GED exam while working. My dream is to one day become a flight attendant, a goal I’ve held close since childhood. I’m still in regular contact with the Sisters and friends from the orphanage. I could never forget them—they’re a part of who I am.

To all my younger brothers and sisters currently living in orphanages, I want to say: Don’t give up when you face hardship. Try with all your heart. Take every opportunity seriously. Be strong, even when life challenges you. There is a saying: “There is always beautiful weather after a storm.” We all share a familiar story. That’s why we must be strong. We are each unique, and we matter.

Thank you for everything, Aunty Mary, U Peter, Ma Mee.
May God bless you always.

With love and gratitude,
Yunadilin.”

Direct Translation by MF Staff

By admin
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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHTS
April 22, 2022

A Global Movie Star Icon: Jackie Chan

Jackie Chan was born in Hong Kong on April 7th, 1954, as Chan Kong-sang.  He was the only child of poverty-stricken parents  – refugees from the Chinese Civil War.

“Taking Full Charge of own circumstances.” 

The small family lived in the Victoria Peak district, a prestigious area in Hong Kong. But their lifestyle was far from privileged. First, they lived in the servant’s quarters while his father worked as a cook and his mother as a housekeeper for the French Ambassador. Then, when Jackie was seven years old, Jackie’s parents left to work at the American embassy in Australia to keep their jobs, leaving Jackie alone in Hong Kong to study.

Over ten years, Jackie learned martial arts, acrobatics, singing, and acting. Finally, at 17, Jackie Chan graduated and continued his trade as a movie extra and stuntman for various Chinese productions. Movie after movie, Jackie chased his dream of making it big.  Eventually, his efforts began to show promise. Jackie Chan’s first big success came in 1978 with Snake in Eagle’s Shadow, where he reportedly knocked out a tooth. It was followed by Drunken Master,  who almost went blind.

Since then, Jackie Chan has starred in a series of blockbusters that finally put him on the Hollywood A-list. From Rush Hour to Kung Fu Panda, his roles have continued to entertain audiences worldwide.  At home in Hong Kong, he continued making movies that he knew would delight his fans, his innovative filmmaking and marketing setting the stage for countless Chinese action-comedy films to follow. 

Although Jackie Chan never learned to thoroughly read or write, use a computer, or lose his fear of public speaking  –  he never stopped pushing his limits. As a result, he now speaks seven languages, contributes millions of dollars to philanthropic causes, and is a creative entrepreneur who desires to “do one good thing every day.”  Looking back on his harsh childhood training and countless movie failures, he doesn’t regret any of his hurdles, as one way or another, they all inspired him to think differently and work even more challenging.

Jackie Chan’s determination to be excellent, one of the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s core pillars, made him reach his ambitions, making him a successful actor, stuntman, and movie maker. He worked and strived hard to be a well-known artist up until this day. He didn’t let the past affect what He would become in the future, even though some people didn’t believe in Him.

By admin
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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHTS
October 20, 2021

From an Orphan to First Lady

Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

Eleanor Roosevelt (The First Lady and an orphan)

 

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The longest serving First Lady in US history, Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, was born on October 11, 1884. At the early age of 8, Eleanor Roosevelt lost her mother, Anna Hall Roosevelt, due to diphtheria in 1892, while her father, Elliott Roosevelt, died of alcoholism.

Eleanor lived with her maternal grandmother, Mary Hall, who sent Eleanor to Allenwood School, a progressive girls’ boarding school in London, England, in 1899.  Ms. Marie Souvestre, Allenswood ‘s Director, recognized Eleanor’s keen intellect, improving her self-confidence. As a result, she became a well-liked leader at a young age among her classmates.

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Eleanor lived in the life of politics as her uncle, Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, the brother of her father, who assumed the 26th presidency (1901-1909) right after President McKinley was assassinated. She was then involved in different charity programs and contributed to volunteer settlement houses and social work, activities that reflected the service’s philosophy of the time spent at the Allenswood ‘Girl’s Boarding School, which molded Eleanor to appreciate and develop deeper insights into politics.  During this time, she fell in love with her fifth cousin, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who later became the 32nd President for four terms from 1933 and 1945.

Eleanor Roosevelt is commonly appraised as one of the influential American women of the 20th century.  In addition to serving as the First Lady of the United States for 12 years, she was a newspaper columnist, author, diplomat, and a great contributor to the League of Women Voters.   President Truman appointed her as the delegate of the United Nations General Assembly. In 1946, she joined as a member of the Human Rights Division, further cementing her position as one of the inspirational voices in the modern world.

 

Our Foundation is pleased to recognize the incredible ‘life celebrations of Eleanor Roosevelt.  Although she became an orphan young, she championed noble causes that embodied gender equality movements to be accepted worldwide.  In acknowledgment of her invaluable workaround ‘for women’s and human rights, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by President Kennedy, among others.

By admin
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CORPORATE NEWS
September 5, 2021

A Warm Tribute to Mr. Edward Thaung

The Board of Directors of the Mary K Yap Foundation would like to extend our tribute to our beloved Board member, Edward Thaung, who passed away at the age of 73 on August 7, 2021, in Yangon, Myanmar.

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Edward Thaung was a devoted Roman Catholic who stood by his religious convictions in supporting those in need.  He was always available to lend his ears and share his valuable insights and experience with anyone who asked for help.   As a faithful husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and mentor to many start-up companies, Edward Thaung touched many people with his candid personality, storytelling talents, and five decades of knowledge of the country’s regulatory and commerical affairs.

During his professional career, Edward Thaung counseled and advised many local and foreign companies on such diverse matters as company formation, taxation, investment proposals, criminal law, family law, international contracts, and dispute resolutions.   His early years of legal work included serving as a Town Law Officer, Grade (4) Public prosecutor, and Pre-trial Legal Advisor to the police department, revenue, customs department, immigration, and other government departments.  Among his notable contributions was his time as Senior Law Officer at the Attorney General’s Office (1989-1993) in coordination with other government bodies to successfully host the Rights of the Child Seminar in cooperation with UNICEF in Yangon.   He redrafted new laws in coordination with the relevant Government departmental personnel and translated Myanmar legal statutes into English.   

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From 1993 to 1995, he was the Assistant Director for Environmental Affairs ‘Office’ and attended the United Nations Environmental Program UNEP Seminar as National Ozone Officer for Myanmar.   For ten years, he held the Secretary to the Board of Directors position at Air Mandalay Limited from 1996 to 2006.  He was responsible for company compliance with the relevant laws of Myanmar as the chief legal consultant to Petronas, World Trade Center Yangon, Awba Group, and Mandalay Productions, to name a few. In addition, he was appointed as visiting university law lecturer in 1996 to teach commercial law subjects in Master of Business Administration (MBA) classes in Yangon sponsored by the Institute of Economics, Yangon.  For the past three years before his death, he served as the Chief Regulatory Officer for the KMA Group of Companies.  

The work contributed by Edward Thaung was done with the utmost integrity and professionalism on behalf of the public and private organizations he served.    Despite his busy schedule, he always found the time to give a hand to worthy organizations and individuals.   Over the three years that Edward Thaung represented our Foundation board, we benefited from his legal advice and developed our sponsored programs in Myanmar in full legal compliance.  

Our goal has always been to become a trusted partner to our donor community so that charitable funds make it to the orphanages that need the most help.   With the help of Edward Thaung, we have become a trusted partner with local communities, positioning our organization to serve all orphanages in the country. So much of the success of our empowerment programs working with Myanmar orphans would not have been possible without the dedicated and faithful help of Edward Thaung.  His passing represents a great loss to our organization and Myanmar.

By admin
1. An Orphan Thoughts on Mother Day
COMMENTARIES
May 9, 2021

Orphan Children on Mother’s Day

A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.”

– Cardinal Gaspard Mermillod (1824-1892) 

OEvery May, America celebrates and honors mothers on this special day by thanking them for all the love and sacrifices they’ve made. But sadly, this is not the case for children in every town and country in the world who have lost, been taken from, abandoned by, or sent away from their mothers.

An orphan may suffer long-term emotional problems due to their failure to resolve their sense of loss for their mother. The effects of trauma can include symptoms of depression, being more anxious and withdrawn, having more problems in school, and diminished academic performance than non-bereaved children. Some also have difficulty building relationships and have trust issues as they lack maternal support while beginning their life journey. Abandoned orphans will always be left with the question of if their mothers truly loved them.  These orphans feel incomplete without their mothers.

Celebrating Mother’s Day is not the same for everyone; for some orphans, it will remind them of their feelings when they lost their mother. Mothers generally support us through all our victories and hardships as we build our lives. Therefore, some orphans will feel envious of the children who can spend time with and be cared for by their mothers. Living and growing up without a mother to lean on, especially on the most challenging days, is not easy.

Many orphans also live in poverty and cope with mental and emotional problems at an early age, in addition to the burden of losing their mother. Even though some still have their fathers and are considered “single orphans, ” the loss of the love and care that mothers bring is irreplaceable.

These orphans are vulnerable but hopefully will remain strong and determined to continue living and pursuing their dreams. Although these unprivileged children have no mother to celebrate Mother’s Day, they should still be surrounded by unconditional love from those who appreciate and care for them. Let this be an encouragement for us to be there for the underprivileged ones, the orphans, as we celebrate this Mother’s Day.

By admin
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TESTIMONIES
March 21, 2021

I am an Orphan, but I am Not Alone

My name is Teophine. I am an orphan at the Myittamone Orphanage for eleven years. I am now 16 years old.

I have known about the Mary K. Yap Foundation for seven years now. They always visit us not only during the Christmas season but also throughout the years. I feel happy and excited when I know they will call us because there will always be games and activities when they come to our orphanage. Over the years, the foundation provided us with much food and nourishment. They offered rice bags, food plates, energy snacks, and drinking water. I especially enjoy the chicken rice plates and sweet iced dessert. They also provided us with needed things for academics, like stationery, pens, pencils, books, and computer equipment.

We enjoyed different activities to improve our learning experience. The foundation team prepared fun networking games, and magic shows on one of their earlier visits. They taught us the English language that we could use during our daily conversations. As an orphan, I sometimes feel sad and alone, but whenever Mary K. Yap Foundation visits us, my sadness is gone because their team of volunteers always fills our hearts with joy and love. We do not feel alone whenever their people visit us because they are like a family. We feel warm and motivated, especially when they give us inspiration that we can use for self-motivation. 

Every Christmas season, they have an event called “One Stuff Animal Project.” This program was created several years ago and is held every year combined with the foundation’s Christmas celebration. They prepared the event in detail to be with us. They always have something new to share, like new activities, stories, and card games. It is truly fun and exciting to be with them. 

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What I like the most about their visits is that they engaged with the children in every game so that we would not be shy. We felt like we always had someone to depend on when they were at the orphanage.  We felt like they loved us and cared for us! I could not thank them enough for their time and generosity. They also give us one stuffed toy animal to hug and play with daily. The toy animal gift was a souvenir that I will always treasure, especially during my sleeping hours. It is so cuddly! This is really a wonderful experience for us, and I hope they can organize more fun events. I am looking forward to those lifetime moments to cherish!

By Teophine”

Direct Translation by MF Staff

By admin
chairman John
CORPORATE NEWS
January 8, 2021

HNY Greetings from Chairman Dr. Palmer

Happy New Year from the Mary K. Yap Foundation

January 10, 2021

Dear Friends, 

Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters,

As we step into 2021 with renewed hope, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is proud to continue our heartfelt collaboration with Mandalay Productions on the post-production of our upcoming charity film, Myittar. Though the final audio mixing in Thailand, originally scheduled for February 2020, was delayed due to the pandemic, our shared commitment to the project has only grown stronger.

In early March, our teams began scouting for a location to shoot a new music video that beautifully complements the film—centered around the life of an orphan and the enduring power of compassion and resilience. We are hopeful that this creative piece will further amplify Myittar‘s mission to bring visibility to children who are often forgotten.

While travel and in-person gatherings were limited throughout 2020, these challenges gave us the chance to reimagine our outreach and marketing strategies in anticipation of Myittar’s release. By August, we were pleased to complete editing adjustments and submit the film to the Censorship Board in Myanmar—a major step forward despite the year’s uncertainties.

Though we were unable to celebrate Christmas in person with the children at our partnered orphanages, our hearts were certainly with them. We continue to lift them in our thoughts and prayers, and our Rice Donation Program remains ongoing in areas we can safely reach through domestic routes. Every small gesture makes a lasting difference—and we are as committed as ever to showing these children that they are not alone.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and our Yangon team, thank you for believing in our mission. Your support inspires everything we do. Should you need assistance or wish to get involved, our Yangon office remains open and ready to serve. Let’s move forward in 2021 with renewed compassion, purpose, and unity.

Yours truly,

Dr. John Palmer

Chairman of the Board

Mary K. Yap Foundation Board of

Directors”

By admin
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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHTS
March 12, 2020

Bridgit Claire: A Heart for a Change

Bridgit Mendler: A Heart for Change

#Born on December 18, 1992, in Washington, D.C., Bridgit Claire Mendler is the daughter of Sandra Ford-Mendler and Charles Mendler. She rose to fame as an American actress, singer, and songwriter—gaining popularity through her roles in Disney Channel productions and her distinctive voice in pop music. But beyond her talent in the entertainment industry, Bridgit has proven herself as a compassionate and committed advocate for social causes, particularly those involving children and youth.

Promoting Education, Literacy, and Environmental Awareness

In 2010, Mendler became an ambassador for First Book, an initiative focused on promoting literacy by providing books to children in need. Her involvement was part of Disney’s Friends for Change, a pro-social campaign encouraging environmental responsibility and charitable action among youth.

As part of this movement, Mendler released a promotional single titled “We Can Change the World” on June 11, 2011. The uplifting anthem became the campaign’s theme song and helped raise $250,000 for the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund—supporting environmental protection efforts around the globe. Her contribution not only inspired fans to take action but also reflected her deep commitment to making a positive difference.

Mendler said, “It’s an easy way for kids to help little ones everywhere get a healthy start and an opportunity to learn just by doing something they do most weekends anyway.”

In 2012, Mendler was honored with the Role Model of the Year Award by Common Sense Media for her active stance against bullying. As the third young artist to ever receive the award—typically given to environmentalists and scholars—her recognition highlighted her influence as a youth leader promoting kindness, respect, and inclusion.

Her advocacy didn’t stop there. In January 2013, she participated in the UNICEF acoustic charity concert held in New York, using her platform to raise funds and awareness for vulnerable children around the world. Her work continued through various public engagements focused on children’s health, online safety, and mental well-being.

A Voice for the Voiceless

Throughout her career, Mendler has remained engaged in initiatives that go beyond the spotlight. She took part in campaigns to end cyberbullying, joined a charity race supporting children’s medical needs in under-resourced countries, and contributed to the Bay Sit-In project—an initiative encouraging teens to give parents a break while promoting early childhood care. She also represented Save the Children during its Annual Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., where she spoke on behalf of underserved communities and advocated for global child welfare policies.

Bridgit Claire Mendler continues to exemplify what it means to use fame and influence for good. Her artistic journey may have earned her acclaim, but it’s her commitment to meaningful causes that truly sets her apart. In both her advocacy and actions, Mendler reflects the very heart of the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s mission—to serve and uplift the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children with compassion, dignity, and hope. By standing up for the voiceless and supporting global initiatives that prioritize child welfare, she embodies the spirit of service that our foundation holds dear. We recognize Bridgit not only as an accomplished artist but as a true ally in advancing the well-being and future of children who need it most.

By admin
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CORPORATE NEWS
January 8, 2020

Founder’s New Year Message of Gratitude

Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters

January 8, 2020

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters,

We hope 2020 is off to a joyful and fulfilling start for you and your loved ones. As we reflect on the past year, we are pleased to share with you the progress and achievements of the Mary K. Yap Foundation, including a significant milestone in our mission to uplift orphan communities.

In mid 2018, we entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Mandalay Productions LLC (MP) for the production of Myittar—a heartfelt charity film designed to raise global awareness of the struggles faced by orphaned children in Myanmar. This powerful storytelling project is not merely a film, but a vehicle for advocacy, education, and charitable outreach. All proceeds from Myittar are committed to supporting orphan relief, education programs, and wellness initiatives that improve the lives of underserved children.

Over the course of two years, our foundation has worked closely with Mandalay Productions to bring this international collaboration to life. We are deeply grateful to Edward Thaung, George Rush, and Gabriel Jack for their invaluable legal guidance, which allowed us to bring esteemed Myanmar artists to the United States under the O-1 visa program. Principal photography officially began on February 17, 2019, across multiple U.S. locations, and later continued in Yangon, Myanmar. This production marks a historic first: Myanmar Academy Award-winning talents Htun Eindra Bo and Lumin filmed scenes on American soil, led by our award-winning Hollywood director Graham Streeter, producer and AD Alex Lebosq, and cinematographer Nicholas Burress. We are also honored to have Peter K. Yap, my beloved son, serve as the film’s Executive Producer. His dedication, vision, and behind-the-scenes leadership have been instrumental in bringing this international project to life. Working closely with Director Graham Streeter, Peter helped oversee coordination between the U.S. and Myanmar teams, ensuring the film stayed true to its cultural authenticity and humanitarian purpose. 

We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to Grace Swe Zin Htike, our dedicated Myanmar Unit Director, whose coordination with the Myanmar Motion Picture Development Office and the Film Development Center made it possible to complete the Myanmar production. Without her tireless efforts and commitment, this film would not have reached the level of excellence it has today. Our sincere thanks to Skyline College in San Bruno, California, for graciously providing access to their theater facilities, and for celebrating the importance of this charity film with us.

To close the year, our foundation sponsored joyful holiday events at three orphanages in Myanmar—providing meals, desserts, games, and a stuffed toy for each child to hold onto during the festive season. These moments embody the very spirit of Myittar, which in Burmese means “love and ompassion.” As we move into 2020, we look ahead with hope and excitement as we prepare to complete post-production, with a planned release in the second half of 2021.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who believes in our mission. Your continued support allows us to provide not only essential resources but also a sense of dignity, love, and hope to orphaned children. Together, we are making a lasting difference—one story, one child, one act of kindness at a time.

With warmest regards,

Mary K. Yap
Founder

Mary K. Yap Foundation Board of Directors”

By admin