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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

Copyright © 2024         All Rights Reserved.

US TAX ID: EIN 47-2687230   Registered No. CT0271616  

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CORPORATE NEWS
March 2, 2019

The “Music for Charity” for Orphan Youths

Harmonizing for Hope: Mary K. Yap Foundation’s “Music for Charity”

As part of our foundation’s ongoing commitment to transform the lives of Myanmar’s orphaned children, the Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly organized and launched our impactful “Music for Charity” fundraising campaign. This cherished event ran annually from 2001 to date, offering a free show for the entire community to enjoy. Each year, we rented a theater and convention room, creating a vibrant space for connection and contribution.

#The heart of “Music for Charity” lies in our passionate community of volunteers and diverse entertainment contributors. These dedicated individuals grace the stage, performing beloved traditional Myanmar songs and captivating dances, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural celebration. To maximize the charitable funds for Myanmar’s orphans, the Mary K. Yap Foundation distributes special coupons. Friends and families within the community then sell these to their networks, allowing attendees to purchase delicious traditional Burmese foods, expertly prepared and sold by generous contributors. Additionally, some donors contribute food directly to the event, further enhancing the culinary experience. Of course, direct financial support and donations are always warmly welcomed at the “Music for Charity” event.

To collect charitable funds for the Myanmar orphans, Mary K. Yap Foundation distributes coupons wherein that friends and families from the community will sell to their networks which they can use to purchase traditional Burmese foods prepared and sold by some contributors. In addition, some donors donate food at the event. Financial support and donations are also generously welcome at the Music for Charity event.

The annual gathering sees guests, donors, partners, volunteers, and family members coming together to enjoy the performances, a testament to the collective effort to help and transform the lives of Myanmar orphans. To uphold our core value of transparency in donation amounts, the Mary K. Yap Foundation consistently publishes a financial clearance report. This document details the previous year’s collected funds and the exact amount disbursed to Myanmar orphans, ensuring everyone knows precisely how their contributions are making a difference.

The foundation’s ultimate desire is to significantly increase awareness of the everyday needs of orphaned children in Myanmar. We believe that as more people become aware of the “Music for Charity” event and the critical work we do, more donors and vital funds will become available, propelling us closer to achieving our mission of empowering orphaned children throughout Myanmar. The Mary K. Yap Foundation firmly believes that even a small effort goes a long way. Therefore, we passionately encourage everyone to donate or volunteer their time to support the future generation of these deserving children, helping us continue to harmonize for hope.

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CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS 6
CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS
August 2, 2018

#H.S.Diploma Program for Orphans

In collaboration with our dedicated educational partners, the Mary K. Yap Foundation has proudly launched the H.S. Diploma: High School Diploma program for Orphans

This innovative initiative is designed to deliver opportunities to every orphaned student from Grade 8 (age 14) to Grade 10 (age 16) in Myanmar. The H.S.Program provides financial assistance to academically inspired orphaned children. Furthermore, it aims to give focused and dedicated attention to those talented orphans navigating their final three years of high school curriculum studies in Myanmar. The program offers comprehensive support, including proper guidance, specialized training, and essential after-school tuition classes, all meticulously designed to mold them into well-rounded individuals. The increased accessibility to robust educational support will provide a critical opportunity for these students to advance both academically and socially during these pivotal high school years (Grades 8 to 10). This extra attention is crucial; it helps accelerate their learning, ensuring they meet all academic requirements and significantly increases their chances of graduating from High School.

For students in Myanmar, Grade 10 is the key to unlocking every future opportunity. Understanding this, the Mary K. Yap Foundation takes care of all necessary educational support. This allows the children to concentrate fully on their studies, perform well in their exams, and be thoroughly prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of university education. We handle the logistical and financial burdens so they can focus on their academic journey.

A Collaborative Path to Success

#The success of the “H.S. Diploma” program hinges on a close and synergistic partnership between the participating orphanages, the selected orphan students, and the dedicated Foundation team. To ensure full transparency and accountability, regular progress reports tracking student performances are made available. This allows participating sponsors and donors to actively monitor the impact and success of their contributions.

If you would like to recommend an orphanage or an orphan student who could significantly benefit from the H.S. Diploma Program, please don’t hesitate to email us at hello@marykyapfoundation.org. Together, we can unlock a brighter future for these deserving young individuals.

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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
February 24, 2018

From Orphan to Global Visionary

Our Individual Spotlight series delves into the lives of history’s most admired business executives, meticulously examining the core principles, relentless drive, and sheer determination that fueled their masterful achievements.

It’s truly astonishing to consider that an orphaned infant, Steve Paul Jobs, adopted as a baby, would not only survive but thrive to spearhead and brilliantly lead a company that ultimately captivated the entire world, selling to an incredible 1.65 billion customers worldwide. His remarkable trajectory serves as a profound and inspiring testament to the powerful idea that one’s destiny is emphatically not defined by the circumstances of their birth or early life.

The Formative Years: A Humble Beginning in Silicon Valley

Born in San Francisco on February 24th, 1955, Steve Jobs’ life began with an immediate and significant challenge: he became an orphan at an infant age due to what are often described as the “grinding decisions” and personal circumstances of his biological parents. However, fate soon intervened. His path fortunately shifted when he was lovingly raised in a stable, albeit lower-middle-class, adoptive family in Cupertino, California. This modest suburban setting would, over time, become globally synonymous with technological innovation: Silicon Valley.

There’s some notion that because I was abandoned, I worked very hard so I could do well and make my parents wish they had me back or some such nonsense, but that’s ridiculous,” he insisted. “Knowing I was adopted may have made me feel more independent, but I have never felt abandoned. I’ve always felt special. My parents made me feel special. They were my parents 1,000%,”

This upbringing, while far from opulent, proved to be an incredibly fertile ground for nurturing his burgeoning interest in electronics and technology. His adoptive father, Paul Jobs, a skilled machinist, was someone Steve affectionately called “a genius with his hands.” Paul instilled in young Steve a foundational appreciation for precision, craftsmanship, and the satisfaction of building things with one’s own hands – principles that would later define Apple’s product philosophy.

The Power of Belonging: Steve Jobs on His Adoption

More importantly, Steve’s adoptive parents were consistently warm, loving, and went to great lengths to make him feel profoundly special and cherished. They even honored a crucial promise made to his birth mother, ensuring Steve attended college. Yet, in a move that presaged his independent spirit, he famously dropped out of Reed College after just one year, choosing instead to passionately pursue other, ultimately groundbreaking, life ambitions that would forever alter the landscape of technology and design. This early decision underscored his unique drive and intuition, foreshadowing the revolutionary path he was destined to carve.

Despite the common perception that early abandonment might drive an individual, Jobs himself vehemently rejected this notion. He famously insisted, “There’s some notion that because I was abandoned, I worked very hard so I could do well and make my parents wish they had me back or some such nonsense, but that’s ridiculous.” He continued, “Knowing I was adopted may have made me feel more independent, but I have never felt abandoned. I’ve always felt special. My parents made me feel special. They were my parents 1,000%.” This powerful statement from Steve Jobs himself provides invaluable insight into his self-perception and emotional security. It highlights that while his adoption was a fact of his life, it did not define him by a sense of loss, but rather by the profound love and stability he received from his adoptive family. His confidence and emotional well-being were rooted in feeling “special” and entirely loved, allowing him to focus his immense energies on his passions.

#Inspired by Steve Jobs’ remarkable journey, our Foundation continues to eagerly look forward to working hand-in-hand with our worldwide partners, dedicated ambassadors, and our tireless troop of volunteers. Our collective goal remains singular: to bring the very best in empowerment to our orphaned children’s communities in Myanmar. We draw a crucial lesson from Steve Jobs’ childhood experience: children, regardless of being orphaned, are inherently capable of living rich, regular, and purposeful lives. His story powerfully illustrates that orphaned children can indeed be loved and emotionally supported during their crucial early years of development, even if that upbringing comes under the compassionate guidance of adoptive parents or through dedicated support systems.

Our board remains in its commitment to continuously provide hope and love to all underserved children in Myanmar. Our core goal is unwavering: to reach these vulnerable children, nurture their potential, and ultimately integrate them well into their communities as confident, contributing members. Steve Jobs exemplifies that even with an adoptive background, an individual can lead an extraordinary life, remain emotionally secure, and be supremely confident in their abilities. His legacy reinforces our belief that with the right environment and committed support, every child has the capacity to achieve greatness.

By admin
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CORPORATE NEWS
February 5, 2018

Our Aspiring Mission of Hope

The Mary K. Yap Foundation operates with a core mission: to transform the lives of Myanmar orphans, guiding them toward becoming independent and productive members of their communities

We deeply believe that every one of these children can truly prosper when given the proper guidance and committed support. They deserve not just care, but the undivided love and enduring hope from those who believe in their potential. For over two decades, we’ve been profoundly humbled to serve the interests of these disadvantaged children, witnessing firsthand the incredible resilience they possess.

Our organizational mission aspires to provide every orphan with the enduring hope that they, too, have equal access to quality educational programs and sufficient facilities and tools. These resources are not merely provisions; they are absolutely crucial for aiding these young individuals in forging a brighter, more promising future. We understand deeply that education is the cornerstone of empowerment, the very foundation upon which a life of dignity and opportunity can be built.

#Therefore, we are profoundly committed to equipping these young minds with not only the academic knowledge but also the critical skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world successfully. This includes fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the adaptability required to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Our aim is to ensure that their journey is marked by continuous learning and growth, opening doors to possibilities that might otherwise remain out of reach.

The Foundation actively engages in socially impactful activities specifically designed to help these orphaned children develop vital life skills. This includes fostering their abilities in communicating and interacting effectively with others, and crucially, building their self-confidence. By creating environments where they can learn, grow, and express themselves, the Foundation ensures that these orphaned children will be empowered and ultimately become reliable and contributing citizens within their communities. Our commitment is to nurture not just their minds, but their spirits, so they can lead fulfilling and impactful lives.

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COMMENTARIES
February 3, 2018

US Tax Benefits for Donors

MKY Foundation: US Tax Benefits for Donors

The Mary K. Yap Foundation officially received its 501(c)(3) private foundation status from the US Department of Treasury International Revenue Service in January 2017. This critical designation allows us to amplify our voice globally, drawing urgent attention to the plight of needy orphans and vulnerable youth in Myanmar (Burma). Our core mission is to develop and implement vital programs addressing shortages in their education, health, and medical care. Beyond these fundamental needs, we are dedicated to providing direct financial assistance and relief initiatives to support disadvantaged and orphaned children, ensuring they have the resources to build a brighter future.

As a classified 501(c)(3) non-profit organization under United States federal law, we are exempt from various federal income taxes, a testament to our commitment to public service. Our operations are fully compliant with the California State Registry of Charitable Trusts, allowing us to organize impactful charitable programs and events within California while maintaining excellent standing with the Office of the Attorney General. The Mary K. Yap Foundation operates strictly for non-profit purposes, adhering to the California 23701d Revenue and Tax Code Section provisions to uphold our tax-exempt status. We pride ourselves on the highest standards of transparency, meticulously accounting for how all funds are used and allocated to fulfill our crucial mission of empowering orphan communities in Myanmar.

#The tax-exempt status afforded to a 501(c)(3) organization is a significant advantage, directly benefiting the children we serve. This exemption liberates the Mary K. Yap Foundation from federal and state income taxes, sales taxes, and property taxes. Crucially, it also extends to payroll taxes, allowing us to maximize the impact of every donation. By significantly reducing operational costs, these savings are directly channeled back into our programs, ensuring that more funds are available to support orphanages and expand our charitable initiatives. This financial efficiency is paramount to our ability to deliver sustained, meaningful assistance.

Beyond the financial benefits, our non-profit status significantly enhances our credibility and trustworthiness with the public and donor community. Donors can confidently make charitable gifts, knowing they will receive tax deduction certificates, incentivizing vital contributions. Furthermore, our 501(c)(3) classification makes us eligible to apply for grants at federal, state, and local levels, unlocking additional funding opportunities to scale our impact. Other invaluable entitlements include discounted postage rates and special non-profit mailing privileges, further optimizing our resources. These benefits collectively strengthen our capacity to reach more children and fulfill our promise of a better tomorrow for the orphans of Myanmar.

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CORPORATE NEWS
January 5, 2018

Planting the Seeds of a New Hope

Our vision is to make the most significant impact on the orphan community in Myanmar by delivering quality programs that empower them to prosper and become successful, contributing citizens.

We firmly believe that every child, regardless of their early life circumstances, deserves the fundamental opportunity to reach their full potential. Our commitment extends far beyond simply providing basic necessities; we are dedicated to offering comprehensive support that fosters holistic development. This includes ensuring access to quality education, essential healthcare, practical vocational training, and vital psychosocial support, all meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual child.

By investing deeply in the growth and well-being of these young individuals, we aim to equip them with the tools and resilience needed to overcome adversity. Our programs are designed not just to address immediate needs but to cultivate essential life skills, critical thinking, and a strong sense of self-worth. We strive to create an environment where these children feel secure, valued, and empowered to dream big and work towards those dreams. This long-term perspective is crucial for breaking cycles of poverty and disadvantage.

#Ultimately, our goal is to enable these young people to integrate successfully into their communities and contribute positively to the future of Myanmar. We envision a generation of empowered individuals who are not only self-sufficient but also active participants in building a more prosperous and equitable society. Through mentorship, community engagement, and opportunities for leadership, we aim to nurture a sense of responsibility and belonging, ensuring they become valuable assets to their nation.

The success of our vision hinges on collaborative efforts, community involvement, and sustainable strategies. We are committed to working closely with local communities, government bodies, and other humanitarian organizations to maximize our reach and effectiveness. By building strong partnerships and fostering a culture of compassion and support, we believe we can truly transform the lives of orphaned children in Myanmar, giving them the bright future they deserve.

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CORPORATE NEWS
January 1, 2016

The Pilliars of Hope that Guide Us

These core values represent our organization to the world

The Mary K. Yap Foundation firmly upholds these three core pillars, Unity, Excellence, and Integrity, in our everyday actions and decisions.

These core values represent our organization to the world.

#Unity is one of the most fundamental and guiding principles that any successful organization must embody in order to deliver its mission effectively. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, unity is not just a value—it is a way of life. We believe that our collective strength lies in our ability to come together as one, regardless of our backgrounds. Our foundation brings together a diverse group of passionate volunteers, professionals, and supporters from various cultures, religions, languages, and nationalities. This diverse community unites with a shared purpose: to serve orphaned and vulnerable children with love, compassion, and commitment. Unity strengthens our foundation at every level. It encourages teamwork, builds bridges across differences, and fosters a sense of belonging for everyone involved. By working together in harmony, we can overcome challenges, celebrate achievements, and continue to build a resilient network of support for the children in our care. It is this unity that creates a welcoming, inclusive, and collaborative environment where every voice matters and every effort counts.

Excellence is the standard that drives every aspect of our work. It reflects our deep commitment to the children we serve and to the mission we uphold. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we believe that children—especially those who have lost their parents—deserve the highest level of care, attention, and opportunity. Therefore, we strive to pursue excellence in everything we do: in our programs, in our decision-making, in our communication, and in the services we deliver. Excellence is not just an expectation—it is a responsibility. We continuously evaluate and improve our performance, learning from challenges and celebrating progress. We invest in training, development, and innovation so that our staff and volunteers are always equipped to provide outstanding care and leadership. Through our commitment to quality, we are able to offer impactful programs, compassionate support, and life-changing opportunities to the children who rely on us. Excellence ensures that our actions not only meet but exceed the standards of ethical care, accountability, and service.

Integrity is the moral compass that guides every decision we make and every action we take. It is the foundation of trust between the foundation, the children we serve, our donors, and our partners. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we uphold the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior. We believe that true integrity means doing the right thing—even when no one is watching—and standing by our principles even when it is difficult. We are fully transparent in our operations, including the management of resources, the delivery of services, and our communication with all stakeholders. We respect the dignity of every child and ensure that their rights, safety, and privacy are always protected. Our donors and supporters trust us because we provide clear, honest reporting and are accountable for every contribution we receive.

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CORPORATE NEWS
April 4, 2015

Myanmar-Orphan Project for All

MKY Foundation: A Hope for All Orphans

#The Mary K. Yap Foundation is committed to its mission of transforming the lives of Myanmar’s orphaned children by empowering them to become independent and productive members of society. The Foundation believes that every orphan, no matter their background, deserves a future filled with opportunity, dignity, and hope. By focusing on long-term development rather than short-term aid, the Foundation aims to invest in the next generation of Myanmar’s youth, giving them the tools to rise above their circumstances and grow into capable, contributing citizens.

One of the upcoming projects “a hope for all orphans” initiative through the “Myanmar Orphans – www.myanmarorphans.org” website is  designed to expand awareness and channel meaningful support to orphaned and disadvantaged children across Myanmar. It aims to help improve their learning potential, encourage intellectual growth, and create pathways for academic and social achievement. Ultimately, the project strives to equip these children with the confidence, knowledge, and resilience needed to lead responsible and impactful lives in Myanmar society.

The Myanmar Orphans project includes a variety of core programs that address critical needs. These encompass efforts in education, nutrition and food development, sustainable living solutions, social welfare outreach, and disaster support assistance. Each program is designed to break down barriers that prevent orphaned children from accessing opportunities commonly available to others. By doing so, the Foundation will work toward ensuring that these children have the chance to thrive in environments that foster fairness, growth, and dignity.

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Additionally, the project plans to incorporate emergency relief responses and community-based initiatives to address challenges caused by natural disasters and other crises. These components will focus on providing immediate aid, such as shelter and basic necessities, while also creating systems that promote long-term stability and healing. Through these efforts, the Mary K. Yap Foundation aims to build a future where no orphaned child is left behind—where every child will be given the opportunity to dream, grow, and contribute to a stronger Myanmar.  Please stay tuned.

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