President’s Letter
In spite of a global recession and a difficult environment for charities around the world, the Sriphong Phukaoluan Foundation continued to provide multi-faceted programs for the tsunami children, their families and those in need in the local communities. Our strong financial position enabled us to continue to sponsor many programs, some of which I will highlight below.
During 2009, the Foundation held two overnight camps, one in the spring and one in the fall. During these camps the children toured the Krabi Municipal government offices, the newly opened Krabi Art Museum, and also the Royal Family’s residence in nearby Klong Muang.
We held a clothing and book drive, receiving some 10,000 articles of donated clothing, which were cleaned and distributed to those in need. We collected over 1000 books, which were organized and distributed to villages throughout the province to support reading programs for both young and old. The Foundation also hosted a free eye clinic, sponsored by the Ronald McDonald House which provided eye exams to over 300 children.
During the year, we received visits from our many sponsors including the Harrow International School in Bangkok, Dupont Co. (Thailand) and the Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort. Many of our individual sponsors made trips to see the children they are supporting as well.
Our Directors have also been active with projects to enhance the Foundation’s capabilities . Director Robert C. Reynolds presented a research paper on the effectiveness of local relief and development organizations to the World Humanitarian Conference in Groeningnen, The Netherlands this past February.
I am proud to announce the Phukaoluan Family sponsored the “Keep Krabi Clean” program with a one million baht donation during 2009. Each district in Krabi Province was challenged to clean and maintain their villages, with the Top Ten villages winning a 100,000 baht award.
To end the year, we held the 5th tsunami anniversary memorial at the Foundation Community Center. This event paid respects to those who lost their lives in the tsunami, and gave tribute to the thousands of volunteers and sponsors who helped rebuild the local communities here in Krabi. The highlight of the day was the viewing of the documentary “Helping Hands” which tells the story of the tsunami in Krabi. The documentary, produced by Director Robert C. Reynolds, includes an original song by musician Gary Gates of Santa Cruz, California, USA. Mr. Gates traveled from America to perform the song live for the tsunami families along with Thai musicians.
It is these acts of kindness and the tireless work of so many helping hands that has helped the tsunami families rebuild their lives. We are thankful that so many people care, even five years later.
We want to thank you all for your continued support and wish you all a healthy and prosperous New Year.
With best regards
Chuan Phukaoluan
President
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