About School for Life

School for Life is a small, internationally sponsored project based in Thailand. We provide a home and family-like care for children who live in difficult situations. Originally, our main target group was AIDS orphans. Over time, however, many children with different backgrounds have come to live with us. Among them are: Children who lost their relatives in the tsunami Children whose parents were killed or are missing Children who escaped from situations of brutality and abuse At School for Life, we provide for their basic needs, including nutritious food, a safe roof over their heads, medical care, and psychosocial support. We work hard to offer the best possible education and, above all, we respect their right to a happy childhood. We are a small foundation with very limited resources — but we have a big heart. Every small donation makes a real difference. A meal, a schoolbook, a smile. School for Life Because no child should grow up without hope.

School for Life Chiang Mai Foundation – 20+ Years of Excellence & Compassion

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.

International Recognition

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.

Our Supporters

Airlines & Industry: Lufthansa, DaimlerChrysler, ThyssenKrupp.
Foundations: Shaul & Hilde Robinsohn Foundation, Siam Cement Foundation, Step Foundation Freiburg.
Embassies & Schools: German Embassy Bangkok, International School Stavanger, Kolping Germany.
Global Partners: UNESCO, United Nations Education Department, Rotary Clubs of Northern Thailand.

Our Present Leadership

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.

“We want the best for the poorest.”

A Message from Thanin “Joy” Hanfhaifha – President of School for Life Chiang Mai Foundation

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.

Our Work Today

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.

Our Commitment

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.

With gratitude,

Thanin “Joy” Hanfhaifha
President
School for Life Chiang Mai Foundation
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