31Jul2025

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

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CORPORATE NEWS
January 8, 2020

Founder’s HNY 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”

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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
January 4, 2020

From Foster Child to Hollywood Legend

No other Hollywood celebrity has captured the hearts and affections like Marilyn Monroe has done for decades.  Her stardom and popularity continued to glow even after she died in 1962.

#Decades after her passing, Marilyn Monroe image still graces posters, film reels, and cultural references—proof of a stardom that never faded. But behind the platinum-blonde beauty and camera-ready smile was a child born into hardship. Monroe, whose birth name was Norma Jeane Mortenson, began life as an orphan. Her mother, Gladys Baker, suffered from paranoid schizophrenia and was unable to care for her daughter, placing her in the foster care system at an early age. From one home to another, Marilyn experienced instability, loneliness, and abandonment—yet these early struggles shaped her resilience and gave rise to an icon who would later conquer the silver screen.

Monroe’s Hollywood rise was nothing short of remarkable. Her talent and magnetic presence catapulted her to stardom in the 1950s, starring in a string of classic films that have since become timeless. Among her most celebrated performances was her role in Some Like It Hot (1959), a screwball comedy in which she played Sugar Kane alongside Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon. The film won her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical, cementing her legacy as one of cinema’s brightest stars. Other notable films include Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953), The Seven Year Itch (1955), and Bus Stop (1956), each showcasing her range as more than just a glamorous figure—she was a performer with depth, wit, and undeniable charisma.

Marilyn Monroe’s life was not without continued hardship. From broken marriages to public scrutiny, and personal battles with mental health and identity, she faced many demons. Yet, she continued to strive for excellence in her craft, refusing to let her circumstances define her future. Her life remains an inspiring reminder that even in the face of trauma and rejection, beauty, creativity, and strength can emerge. As she once said, “Keep smiling, because life is a beautiful thing, and there’s so much to smile about.” These words reflect not only her personal philosophy but also the essence of hope she carried despite the odds.

Keep smiling because life is a beautiful thing, and there’s so much to smile about,” said Monroe.

At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we are proud to spotlight individuals like Marilyn Monroe, whose journeys from abandonment to accomplishment continue to inspire generations. Her life echoes our mission: to empower vulnerable and orphaned children with hope, opportunity, and dignity. Just as Marilyn overcame her difficult beginnings through perseverance and talent, we believe that every child deserves the chance to thrive, to be seen, and to become the best version of themselves—regardless of where they start in life.

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CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS
September 6, 2019

#Each1TeachOne for Orphans

Mary K. Yap Foundation’s #Each1TeachOne: ABCs English for You – Empowering Orphaned Children in Myanmar Through Language

The Mary K. Yap Foundation firmly believes that language is more than just a subject—it is a vital tool for connection, understanding, and growth. English, being the most widely used language across the world, opens the door to global communication, education, and employment. That is why the Foundation launched the “#Each1TeachOne: ABCs English for You” initiative: a program designed to provide orphaned and underprivileged children in Myanmar with early access to structured English learning.

Targeting children aged 10 to 16, this program aims to build their confidence by teaching them essential English skills from the ground up. The goal is to gradually guide them toward an intermediate level of proficiency—enabling them to understand, speak, and use English in real-life situations.

A Structured Program with a Personal Touch

The course runs throughout the year in quarterly phases. Each phase introduces carefully selected topics suited to the children’s age and learning ability, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The classes are held inside orphanages, making education both accessible and comfortable. This approach allows children to learn without the stress of traveling or adapting to new environments.

The Foundation works closely with orphanage staff and local educators to ensure that every student receives attention and encouragement. By creating a safe and familiar learning atmosphere, the program fosters not only language development but also personal growth and emotional well-being.

Why Early English Education Matters

Introducing English education at an early age gives these children a valuable head start. As they grow, the ability to understand and communicate in English can help them pass university entrance exams, apply for scholarships, or even find better job opportunities in the future. Beyond academics, learning English strengthens their ability to engage with the world—through books, the internet, media, and cross-cultural communication. It also instills a sense of pride and possibility, helping children believe in their potential and imagine new futures for themselves. The results speak for themselves. Recent updates from the field show clear improvement in the children’s language skills and confidence. Many now participate more actively in class, express themselves with ease, and show a stronger desire to learn.

#To ensure continued success, the Foundation regularly evaluates each child’s progress and adapts lesson plans accordingly. With each cycle, the curriculum is improved, the teaching methods refined, and the support system strengthened. The #Each1TeachOne program is not just about learning English—it’s about building bridges toward a better future. The Mary K. Yap Foundation remains dedicated to giving every orphaned child the opportunity to rise, grow, and succeed—one word at a time.

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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
April 22, 2019

From Orphan to a Transformative Leader

International Orphan Day: A Tribute to Malcolm X,

As we commemorate International Orphan Day, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is honored to pay tribute to the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Malcolm X. His journey from a childhood marked by profound adversity to becoming one of the most prolific and impactful civil rights leaders of our times serves as a powerful testament to human resilience and the potential for transformation, regardless of early-life circumstances.

A Childhood Forged in Trauma and Adversity

#Malcolm X’s childhood began with an unforgettable traumatic experience. On September 28, 1931, when he was just six years old, his ministerial father, Earl Little, was brutally murdered by the Black Legion, a notorious racist terrorist organization. This devastating loss plunged the family into immediate crisis. The situation worsened considerably for the now fatherless Malcolm when his single mother, Louise Little, a resilient woman raising seven children, was tragically diagnosed with a mental illness. Her condition necessitated her registration at a mental institution, where she would remain for an astonishing 26 years.

The day-to-day survival became a massive, unrelenting struggle for the Little family. With no one able to consistently look after them, Malcolm and his siblings were fragmented, living in various foster families under the government assistance program. Malcolm’s formal education was abruptly cut short; he did not finish school past the seventh grade and was subsequently sent to a juvenile home in the nearly all-white community of Mason, Michigan. A few years after living with foster parents, a pivotal moment arrived in 1941 when Ella Collins, Malcolm’s half-sister, gained custody of the 15-year-old Malcolm, bringing him to Boston.

From Hustle to Self-Education: The Making of a Mind

As a youngster growing up as an orphan under his half-sister’s care, Malcolm seized every possible opportunity that came his way to make ends meet. This led to a series of challenging “odd jobs” on railroads, in restaurants, bars, shoeshine stands, and jewelry stores. His path during these formative years also included brushes with the law, even leading to convictions for breaking and entering and possessing firearms.

Yet, despite these misguided turns, Malcolm remarkably transformed his time in prison into an invaluable period of self-improvement. He made the absolute best of his jail time, dedicating himself to reading and devouring books at the prison library. Malcolm’s insatiable desire to read and learn as much as possible during his incarceration was his profound way of compensating for the education he had missed when he dropped out of high school. It was during this period of intense self-study that his intellect sharpened, his worldview expanded, and the foundations of his future leadership began to form.

A Powerful Voice for Black Empowerment

#Malcolm’s exceptional ability to inspire both Nation of Islam (NOI) members and non-members quickly became evident. This charisma and intellect earned him rapid ascent within the organization, leading to his appointment as the first minister to various temples, culminating in his highest appointment as the Chief Minister of Harlem’s Temple 7 in 1961, a role bestowed upon him by Elijah Muhammad, the founder of the NOI. Malcolm emerged as a staunch believer in the empowerment of Black people. He passionately advocated for Black communities to create their own power structures, build their own institutions, and generate their own wealth, directly challenging the then-dominant ideals of integration and racial acceptance. Malcolm also held a strong conviction in the notion of self-defense as a necessary alternative to nonviolent resistance, becoming extremely vocal on subjects he held so dearly, resonating with a segment of the Black community seeking a more assertive path to liberation.

Malcolm X’s Enduring Legacy: Courage, Determination, and Integrity

Despite the distressed and turbulent environment he endured throughout his early life, Malcolm X never ceased pursuing his agendas and sharing his profound knowledge with everyone who would listen. He embodied the very essence of living by one’s words and integrity – a principle that resonates deeply with and aligns perfectly with one of the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s three core pillars. He demonstrably refused to let life’s complications or his challenging beginnings deter him from accomplishing his personal goals and motives. With courage and determination, Malcolm X achieved an indelible mark on history, demonstrating that even the most arduous journeys can lead to monumental impact. His life stands as a powerful reminder for all orphaned and underserved children, proving that with resilience and dedication, one can transcend adversity and become a force for positive change.

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CORPORATE NEWS
March 5, 2019

The “Movie for Charity” Initiative

Lights, Camera, Action for a Cause: The “Movie for Charity” Initiative

The Mary K. Yap Foundation is thrilled to announce an exciting and innovative new venture in our ongoing efforts to uplift and advance Myanmar’s orphan community: the “Movie for Charity” initiative. This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant extension of our vibrant fundraising activities, demonstrating our commitment to creative and impactful ways of generating support. We are incredibly proud to be working in a landmark partnership with Mandalay Productions LLC on this pioneering project, which centers around their first-ever feature film. The net proceeds generated from this “Movie for Charity” program will directly benefit the advancement of orphaned children in Myanmar, providing resources for their education, health, and overall well-being.

Our Board expresses tremendous appreciation for this unique collaboration, which allows us to work intimately with a highly creative and esteemed film and video production company. Mandalay Productions LLC, strategically based in both the United States and Myanmar, is renowned for its commitment to delivering and producing unrivaled films. Their dedication to maintaining and providing the best international filmmaking practices aligns perfectly with our foundation’s pursuit of excellence in all endeavors. 

#The highly anticipated feature film at the heart of this initiative, powerfully titled “Myittar” (meaning “loving-kindness” or “compassion” in Burmese), promises to be a unique and compelling cultural blend. It will proudly showcase the exceptional talents of well-known artists from Myanmar alongside emerging and established stars from the Burmese American acting community. This cinematic fusion is truly historic. Mandalay Productions LLC stands as the sole financial partner and producer of this monumental project – marking it as the first Burmese and American feature film ever to be filmed across both the United States and Myanmar (Burma).

The Mary K. Yap Foundation takes enormous pride in vigorously promoting our worldwide non-profit initiative, championing the “Movie-for-Charity” project and its esteemed affiliation with Mandalay Productions LLC, as we believe it represents a new frontier in philanthropic engagement through art.

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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 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 Compassionate 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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