A childcare centre in Thai Mueang District, Phang-nga Province, came alive once again as a cross-cultural social initiative filled the space with vibrant colours, smiles, and heartfelt inspiration.
This activity was made possible by the initiative of Mr Kim Teron, a craftsman and influencer from South Korea, who reached out to World Vision Foundation of Thailand with the hope of using his skills to support children in a vulnerable area in Thailand.
This childcare centre, located in one of World Vision Thailand’s project areas, was facing serious deterioration. Cracked walls and peeling paint had turned the school into an unsafe environment for the 44 young children who spend their days there.
Mr Teron travelled from South Korea with his friends to repaint the school building, repair cracks, and restore the worn-down areas to make the space livable and safe again. He also prepared lunch for the children, handed out snacks, and played football with them in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
“This is my first time volunteering in Thailand, and I must say it has been a far deeper experience than I ever expected,” said Mr Teron.
He continued, “This school has taught me something more profound than travel. It is about heart-to-heart connection through the small things we give to one another.”
Fatima, a Grade 6 student at the centre, shared her thoughts on receiving this support:
“Before, the building was falling apart. The paint had been there for a long time and was peeling off. The walls had cracks. But after the volunteers came and fixed it, it looks so much better and more comfortable.”
She added, “When I grow up, I want to do what they did. I will cook for kids and help support schools, just like they helped us.”
Similarly, Ms Chanyanit, or Teacher Pom, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the unexpected support: “I am so happy and excited that someone came to help. The building is now more colourful and much safer for the children.”
She continued, “I had never heard of Mr Teron before and never thought he would come here because this place is so remote, and hardly anyone visits. I am truly grateful. I hope he will come and visit us again. I also want to thank World Vision Thailand for always supporting us. I hope we can continue working together for a long time.”
Though brief, this activity reflected a model of participatory development that brought together international collaboration, the goodwill of volunteers, and the support of the local community. It marked the beginning of sustainable change, not only in the physical structure of the school but also in the hearts of both the givers and the receivers.
“Thank you to all the volunteers who came to cook for us and paint our school. When I grow up, I want to do the same as you,” said Fatima.
World Vision Foundation of Thailand extends heartfelt thanks to Mr Teron Kim for his generous spirit of sharing, and to the teachers and community of Ban Tha Din Daeng for being a vital part in supporting this ministry. Sometimes, the greatest inspiration begins with simply filling a small crack in a classroom wall and reaches all the way to someone’s heart.
