Support Girls' Education in Rural China

Dear Friends,

How time flies! The SOAR Foundation has been actively supporting talented students in China for 30 years, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to continuing this vital work. In this report, we are pleased to share reflections from SOAR Board Chair Mr. Davy Kao in honor of our 30th anniversary.

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the renowned charitable organization based in Fremont, California—the SOAR Foundation—held a grand banquet in San Jose to celebrate its 30th anniversary. With 45 tables and over 450 guests, the event was a joyous gathering. Over 2,000 years ago, Confucius encouraged his students to be “established at thirty.” True to that ideal, SOAR, like a diligent student, has stayed the course and stood tall after three decades of tireless effort.

Back in 1995, Ms. Siu Fong Huang, the foundation’s founder, was deeply troubled by the sight of many young people in China who were neither attending school nor working, forming part of the so-called "floating population" in urban areas. After returning to the U.S. from a visit to China, she sounded the call to action and established SOAR—dedicated to raising funds to support underprivileged but outstanding primary and secondary school students. Over time, this support expanded to include high school and university students, helping them complete the essential education they need and deserve.

Over the past 30 years, SOAR has assisted more than 17,000 students and distributed nearly 40,000 scholarships. These efforts have not only enabled students to complete their basic education, but in many cases, have transformed lives—uplifting not only individuals but the hopes and happiness of entire families.

These accomplishments would not have been possible without the support of nearly 1,000 generous, kind-hearted donors. For three decades—without major corporate or institutional backing—SOAR has relied solely on the compassion of friends and supporters. Yet, the foundation has remarkably raised tens of millions of dollars. Without this powerful "fuel," SOAR's journey to its 30th anniversary could not have run so smoothly.

Equally vital are the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who have tirelessly “driven” SOAR’s operations day in and day out. For 30 years, they’ve worked without pause—meeting challenges and solving countless problems. Throughout this time, SOAR has never paid a cent in volunteer wages. Like our donors, these volunteers give both time and resources. They not only keep SOAR running but have also fueled its growth, development, and resilience. This includes our dedicated volunteers in China.

In recent years, SOAR has expanded its early childhood education programs. In addition to providing subsidies for preschool children and teachers, the foundation has donated books, improved learning spaces, and trained over 60 preschool teachers through both “inviting in” and “going out” initiatives. These efforts offer timely support and fill critical gaps—helping today while planting seeds for tomorrow. It’s a meaningful new direction that deserves continued donor attention.

Together, SOAR sincerely invites more compassionate and ambitious individuals to join our cause—to learn and grow together, and to work hand in hand in building a brighter future for underprivileged students, helping them realize their youthful dreams.

Warm Regards and Cheers,

Shang Su

Fundrasing Project Leader & Previous SOAR Awardee

SOAR Foundation

Below you can find the link to the latest SOAR newsletter where you can read the bilingual versions of Mr Kao's reflections.

Links:

• SOAR Newsletter