The School for Life Chiang Mai Foundation is a nationally recognized Social Welfare School, legally registered with the Thai government for over two decades. Established in 2003, our mission is to provide education, shelter, and a future for orphaned and underprivileged children in Northern Thailand.
Our educational model has been classified by UNESCO as a “much needed world class innovative effort in the field of education” and a “new standard of educational excellence in the world community of the 21st century.”
In October 2005, HRH Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the Princess of Thailand, honored us with a visit and stayed for twice as long as planned, a testament to the joy and quality of our work.
The foundation is now proudly led by Thanin “Joy” Hanfhaifha, co-founder of School for Life. As officially authorized by Prof. Dr. Juergen Zimmer, President Emeritus and recipient of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, Joy handles all aspects of the foundation’s implementation, development, and finances.

Dear Supporters and Global Partners,
My name is Thanin Hanfhaifha, but everyone calls me “Joy.”
I am the co-founder of the School for Life Chiang Mai Foundation, established in 2003. For over 20 years, I have dedicated my life to ensuring that no child is left behind.
In 2012, our founder, Prof. Dr. Juergen Zimmer, officially authorized me to take full responsibility for the implementation, development, and financial management of School for Life. Today, I serve as the President of the foundation.
We continue to operate under the UNESCO-acclaimed model of innovative education. We provide not just a school, but a family for orphaned children. We believe in social welfare through education, healthcare, and vocational training.
We are a transparent, legally registered Thai foundation seeking international grants and aid to expand our reach. We invite you to partner with us. Together, we can continue to write the story of hope that began in 2003.