Giving becomes a life-changing force. At the Sponsor Recognition event held by World Vision Foundation of Thailand on June 14, 2025, the room was filled with songs of hope and heartfelt gratitude from children and staff representatives. These voices echoed throughout the hall, reaching out to the kind-hearted sponsors who have supported the Child Sponsorship programme for 10, 15, 20, and even 25 years, affirming that continued giving truly transforms the lives of children, families, and communities across the country where World Vision Thailand operates.
Mrs Rosalin Kowae, National Director of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, stated: “Child Sponsorship is different from general charity. It is not just a one-time act in times of need, but an ongoing commitment to care for, support, and nurture children to grow up with quality.”
World Vision Thailand collaborates with families, schools, communities, and local agencies to create a nurturing environment that supports children’s growth. It also supports families with livelihood training and prepares communities for sustainability. “We believe every child has potential. If given the right opportunity, they can grow into quality adults who will, in turn, help others,” Mrs Kowae added.
When Former Sponsored Children Become Inspirations
The room was filled with warmth, joy, and smiles, especially when former sponsored children shared their life journeys. Teeradech, or Aun, once a sponsored child and now a teaching assistant at Mae Taeng School, Chiang Mai, confidently took on the role of event host. It is hard to believe he was once a shy child. Thanks to World Vision Thailand’s support, Aun discovered his voice and confidence. With a firm grip on the microphone, articulate speech, and eyes scanning the room, Aun hoped to meet his sponsor someday. “I have always hoped that one day I would meet my sponsor in person. And today, with nearly 300 people here, I secretly wish that someone in this room might be my sponsor—watching me now, smiling and proud of the child they supported.”
He continued, voice trembling, “I do not know who you are, but thank you so much. Your support, all the way through the Bachelor’s Degree Programme, helped me earn the first bachelor’s degree in my family.”
Similarly, Lahoo, or John, another former sponsored child, proudly shared his story. Today, John holds a degree in Computer Engineering from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna—the only one in his family to graduate from university. His sponsor’s support not only changed his life but also helped his family gain livelihoods and income.
John shared that although his family could not afford higher education, the support from World Vision Thailand’s Bachelor’s Degree Programme covered tuition, dormitory, and school supplies. He also gained leadership skills and experiences from participating in World Vision Thailand’s activities, which he applied throughout university.
From the opportunities he received, John learned to give back. Drawing from his family’s struggles with drug abuse, he developed a community project to combat drug problems and end violence against children. He also collaborated with World Vision Thailand to design the WV Connect app, which brings sponsors and sponsored children closer together.
“Everything that has happened is thanks to your support. Without it, I would not have had the chance to grow into a leader—from the community level to the international stage. What I have received has made me realise that when we are given opportunities, we must give back to make society a better place,” John concluded with pride.
25 Years of Continued Giving
Ms Sawangjit Traicharoenwiwat shared, “I believe children need continuous support, especially those growing up in poverty. One-time help is not enough for them to survive or graduate. Someone has to be there for them consistently.”
Her journey began when her sister introduced her to the Child Sponsorship programme. Since then, she has been supporting a child through World Vision Thailand. “To build a strong nation, we must start with families. If a family struggles, how can a child grow up with quality? Home should be a safe and warm place. That is why I am committed to helping as much as I can—not a lot, but consistently—to give them strength to keep going.”
When asked how she feels after 25 years, Ms Traicharoenwiwat smiled and said, “Surprised it has been 25 years already? Time really flies. I am so happy to be part of this journey. Even if it is not much, I am proud and glad to be here.”
This event was more than just a plaque presentation or a thank-you speech. It was a powerful affirmation that continued giving creates an endless cycle of transformation. Children once helped have now become valuable members of society. Sustainable child sponsorship is about offering opportunity, planting hope, and instilling belief—that someone believes in them, and that they can believe in themselves. It does not just change one life—it inspires others. World Vision Foundation of Thailand extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors who have walked this journey with us. Every helping hand, every baht, has transformed the lives of vulnerable children, families, and communities. This is the true power of giving—creating sustainable, far-reaching change for all of society.
