In June 2025, World Vision Thailand hosted the event ‘Thank You from the Heart: Moving Forward Together’ to express its gratitude to sponsors who have continuously supported the Child Sponsorship Programme. Over 200 long-time sponsors who have supported the programme for 10, 15, 20, and even 25 years attended the event.
“I believe that we live in a society where we have more opportunities than many children. So we should extend those opportunities to others who lack them,” said Dr Sontaya Krichnavaruk, a sponsor of World Vision Foundation of Thailand. His words reflect a philosophy of giving that is simple yet profound and powerful.
Looking back to the beginning, which changed many lives 20 years ago while he was pursuing his PhD, he recalled, “I came across information through a public campaign and felt the urge to help children in underprivileged areas.” What led him to choose World Vision Thailand was its clarity and transparency. “The support process was convenient, with clear donation channels, and the child progress reports were quite detailed.”
Because sponsorship is not just about money, Dr Krichnavaruk shared why he has continued supporting the programme for decades: “I work in the field of education and am closely involved with youth, so I understand children from many perspectives.” This insight helped him see the challenges youth face, the emerging social issues, and the urgent areas needing attention. The programme’s comprehensive progress reports, covering development, education, living conditions, and even family and community development, gave him confidence in the positive impact. “If we only develop the child but not their family or community, the child may not be able to move forward. So holistic development—of the family, community, and school—is crucial.”
Over the past 20 years, Dr Krichnavarukhas has sponsored three children, each leaving a lasting impression. “What touched me most was when some of the children completed their education—some even went on to university. The programme would report back, and I felt so happy to have played a part in helping them move forward.”
The value created benefits both the giver and the receiver. Child Sponsorship Programme not only benefits the children and their families but also brings a sense of fulfilment to the sponsor. “Even though they are not my family, I still play a small part in their success.” Dr Krichnavaruk has clear expectations for his sponsored children: “I want them to make the most of the opportunities society gives them—study hard, grow up to have stable careers, take care of their families, and if they are able in the future, give back to society. It does not always have to be in the form of money, but can be the contribution of experience or knowledge.”
He shared with heartfelt emotion, “I received a plaque at the 10-year mark, and today I am so happy and surprised at how quickly another 10 years have passed.” He also left words of encouragement for the children in the programme: “Do not worry. Just focus on your studies and follow your dreams. Even if you lack some opportunities, there are people in society who support you. Do not give up—keep fighting for your future and your family.”
“Child sponsorship does not just help one child—it extends to their family, community, and society. It is a cycle of giving that never ends. And that is why every reason to give holds greatness. Every reason counts,” he concluded.
The story of Dr Sontaya Krichnavaruk shows that giving does not come only from wealth or social status, but from recognising the value of the opportunities he has received—and understanding that offering those opportunities to others can create lasting and far-reaching change.
