Address: 539/1 M.24 T Ronwiang. A.Muang Chiang Rai 57000 Thailand
IHF Background and History
The International Humanity Foundation Thailand branch works with the hilltribes, the indigenous people living in the tumultuous borderlands between Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), and Laos, and extending as far as into China and Vietnam. The two tribes at our Children’s Home are Lahu and Akha. The hilltribes in Northern Thailand face many challenges, and it is our mission to arm our children with the skills, attitudes and character that they will need to have equal opportunities for their future, like other Thai citizens.
Our home has 9 children. At home, they speak Lahu and Akha to their tribesmen and Thai when speaking across tribes. Most of our children are Christian, with several Buddhist exceptions, both religions being accepted.
Education: Our children range from (third grade) to Matayom four (12th grade) and go to four different schools. Each night we have one hour of homework time, during which we encourage the older children to help the younger children practice their Thai language skills. Also, we are always looking for volunteers to teach English skills during this hour, and play with and help look after the kids.
Our Home: Situated on the outskirts of Chiang Rai town, our home enjoys the quiet of being at the end of the road, but is still close to town. We back up to a forest where the children like to play. Our neighbors are friendly, and own a candy store that our children often visit. We have boys and a girls dorms, joined by a common area, where we eat our meals, and the children do their homework.
Staff: Volunteers are always needed and so very welcome to come and stay with us. We have various volunteers coming and going, staying around 1-3 months. The volunteers help out in the home, help with homework, do some administrative work and make sure it all runs smoothly. Even more important is just playing with the children, helping them practice their English and making sure they are happy.
At the moment we only have one housemother, nabee. She is a single mother with a daughter, niece, and nephew who also live at the center and receive and education. Nabee often sings with the kids and helps them retain their Lahu heritage. She also does the sewing for the children.
Please visit often and read our news, and if you’re ever in Northern Thailand, and would like to volunteer please email volunteering@ihfonline.org