The Hands of Hope project is the cumulative efforts of Donna, Focus, Ray, and Eric since April 2023. At the beginning of 2023, we teamed up and investigated social problems occurring in Thailand. Through our research, we encountered one significant problem—the poor hygiene conditions in rural villages. Understanding the root of the problem, we had more than a genuine intention and dedication to transform this project into more than just fulfilling CAS requirements. It has become a sincere desire to positively impact the lives of orphans in rural Thailand.
Our decision led us to commit to Sarnelli House, the orphanage our activities coordinator, Ms. Shirley, and RIS students visit annually. The house for children there is known as the House of Hope, and it is located in Nong Khai, Thailand. its mission is to provide refuge for abandoned and abused children as well as children affected by HIV/AIDS.
We launched our first fundraising campaign in May 2023 and aimed to gather funds to support essential equipment for the House of Hope. With our cumulative efforts and effective collaboration within our team, we generated substantial profits, totaling approximately ฿14,000. Recognizing the importance of providing meaningful assistance, we approached the orphanage staff and asked about their specific needs, not just hygienic furniture. This proactive communication ensured that our contributions would go to the most pressing requirements of the orphanage. Moreover, we agreed that showing our love and genuine support to the people in the orphanage is just as crucial as the resources we donate. Therefore, we dedicated three days of holiday time to playing with them, teaching them basic English, and helping the staff clean the entertaining house.
Ultimately, the Hands of Hope project reflects our commitment beyond my CAS journey; it underscores the importance of empathy and social responsibility. Witnessing the smiles on their faces reminded us of our ability to brighten their days and create meaningful memories for these young lives, driven by our genuine intention to help them.
The CAS experiences and this project shape every facet of our interactions, fostering personal growth and enabling us to empathize with these children, perceive the world through their eyes, and acknowledge the challenges they navigate with resilience.