|
Shelter, security and learning... The primary activity of OPC is running the orphanage and learning center. The center currently houses 40 children but over the history of the project has helped hundreds. The center consists of a school building where the students learn English, Thai, Shan, environmental and agricultural studies and math in daily lessons; a dormitory separated for boys and girls, and a kitchen block where the children's meals are prepared. |
 |
 |
Pigs and Mushrooms... Farming activities at OPC not only provide good quality, organic food for the children and staff but also students learn the fundamental life skills of rearing animals, cultivating crops, cooking and managing a household. The staff and children farm pigs, which provide additional income and nutrition. On the land surrounding the learning center there is an organic garden with mushrooms, potatoes, garlic, and a variety of other crops. These are vital to providing nutritionally rich and diverse food for the kids. Soya bean meal and tofu are produced at the school, which add great variety to the school diet and allow students to learn to make these important basic foods. In addition students undertake projects in the local environment, including cleaning the river that runs near the OPC School. |
|
Helping the wider community... OPC is involved with helping five village communities along the Thai-Burmese border; one Wa, one Lisu and three Shan. In this work we try to focus on providing capacity building for the members of these communities, especially the youth, so they have the knowledge and skills to continue to work independently for the betterment of their community. To achieve this, we organize classes in English, Information Technology, and community and project management. Our second focus is to help fundraise for poor communities to enable them to start their own development projects. One project that was recently completed successfully with OPC's help was the water system in the Lisu village. We also run a clothing bank used by both Thais and migrants. In the picture opposite Kam Chuen, the director of OPC, is delivering clothing to a man who recently adopted two children in need of support. OPC also helps with the school fees for these children. |
 |