Character and Leadership Training for Thai Youths

What It Means to Empower Someone

"Empowerment " is such a buzz word used in NGOs, charities and foundations, that sometimes makes one wonder, how exactly is that worked out in real life, affecting first the individual, his/her family, the local community and the nation. As far as Foundation for Life is concerned, although we are very small and mostly overlooked by governmental authorities and big corporations in terms of help and donations, our supporters can be assured that we have our feet firmly planted on the ground and that we care for the development of the children and youths under our care... which is why we consider that building character and leadership in the individual to be synonymous with EMPOWERMENT.

To us, EMPOWERMENT is a process that takes time to unfold its prowess and potential. Being a developmental process, it begins with an alignment of mindsets and clear vision, which is rather lacking in unguided young people today.

EMPOWERMENT has to be practical and tangible resulting in change in behaviours and outcomes.

EMPOWERMENT also has to be sustainable and it is not attained in a once-off event or activity.

and finally, EMPOWERMENT needs to be passed on to the next generation.

It therefore requires tenacity in the giver and the receiver, persistence and grit. Which is why our Foundation applauds all donors who contribute to this Project, because building Character and Leadership (EMPOWERMENT) appear dull in its mundane practice of honesty, integrity, hardwork, etc, when compared to the more "glorious splendour" of disaster relief efforts (whose importance cannot be undermined either). Thus donors who have the insight to see the importance of this aspect of our ministry, we treasure as "Gems".

Through the Foundation's weekly program and activities, yearly leadership trainings, follow-ups, supervision and guidance of our grassroot Volunteers, our young people (around ages 15 to 18 years) were able to help plan, prepare and run a National Camp for nearly 200 campers.

After 2 months of intensive preparations and running of the camp, camp commandant, 17-year-old Makrue (who had been in the program since he was 10 years old) said in the social chat for 30 young leaders group, "A BIG thank-you to every young leader for your efforts to make this camp so fun and unforgetable.... I will NEVER forget all of you!!" . The adult leaders who has been working with Makrue could see that the little boy who grew up in the slum community in a broken family, has turned out to be a fine and responsible young man, a leader in his own right...and EMPOWERED!

Thanks to all donors who believe in Empowering the next generation through Character and Leadership Training, for which this work thus continues. All contributions and comments to help us improve is greatly appreciated!

Best regards

Vena