Updated October 13, 2023
Craig Beaumont: Leading the Way in Fundraising for a Brighter Future
At Iron Software, we believe in the power of technology to make a difference in the world. However, we also understand that real change often comes from the hearts and actions of individuals. Today, we are proud to shine a spotlight on one of our own - Craig Beaumont, who is not only a dedicated member of our sales team but also a passionate advocate for a noble cause. Craig has embarked on a remarkable journey to raise funds for a charity that is close to his heart - a charity that is making a significant impact on the lives of underprivileged children in Thailand.
To support Craig’s efforts Iron Software will be matching every staff member’s donation!
Warm Heart: A Beacon of Hope
The charity in question is Warm Heart Foundation, a passionate community-driven nonprofit organization committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those residing in our local impoverished mountain villages. Their mission is clear: provide essential resources and support individuals and communities facing adversity. Their focus is local, the impact is global. Warm Heart provides underprivileged children in Thailand with a chance at a brighter future. Their mission extends far beyond academics, encompassing a wide range of extracurricular activities and essential life skills. These include English language learning, mindfulness practices, and pre-professional skill development, all tailored to cater to various age groups among the children they serve.
Evelind Schecter and Michael Shafer with the children of Warm Heart Foundation. (Photo by: @willhornerphoto)
The Challenges Faced
Like many organizations worldwide, Warm Heart Children's Home faced its fair share of challenges due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. When the new school year began, students and staff alike had to wear masks as a precaution. However, as time passed and recovery rates improved, the masks came off, and a sense of normalcy started to return to the classrooms.
Amidst these challenges, the Warm Heart welcomed five new students, four in the 7th grade and one in the 2nd grade, hailing from hill tribe villages in the surrounding mountains. These young minds arrived two weeks early to receive personalized assessments and catch-up lessons, ensuring they could thrive academically alongside their peers.
Craig Beaumont is participating in the Footsteps for Good trek to raise funds for Warm Heart.
Empowering Dreams
Warm Heart isn't just about education; it's also about empowering dreams. One inspiring example is Pokpong, who was enrolled in a Technical College in Chiang Mai for a 2-year certificate program in welding and construction. Then there's Nuey S., who embarked on a journey to become a teacher, enrolling in a program at Chiang Rai Rajabhat University. She's not only pursuing her dream but also giving back to her rural community when she graduates, thanks to a scholarship supported by the Children's Home.
Community Engagement and Volunteerism
This spring, Warm Heart had the privilege of hosting volunteers from the UK and Canada. These volunteers engaged with the children, helping them practice their English, playing games, singing songs, and even baking cookies. Warm Heart Children's Home Upskills/English teacher, Finn, organized an English camp, aided by Tovah, who was on a gap year from high school in Canada. The exchange of knowledge and cultures enriched the lives of both the children and the volunteers.
Collaborative Efforts for a Brighter Future
Collaboration is at the heart of Warm Heart’s mission. They recently welcomed a visit from Prem, one of the international schools in Chiang Mai, to plan joint activities throughout the school year. One exciting project on the horizon is the fostering of young clothing designers who will create fashion pieces using recycled and upcycled materials. These creations will be presented at a Fashion Show fundraiser for Warm Heart in the winter, demonstrating the power of sustainable fashion for a good cause.
Continuous Improvement and Dedication
Warm Heart is not content with the status quo. They continuously evaluate their programs and learn from their peers in their network of private children's homes in Chiang Mai. Even during maternity leave, Mali, the Manager of the Children's Home, worked remotely, and Soda, the lead for the Elderly Access to Care program, filled in for her. Now, with Mali back, they continue to collaborate to track each child's progress and identify programs and solutions that ensure a successful school year ahead.
Your Contribution Matters
Warm Heart’s success story is made possible by the generosity of individuals like you. Your support enables these children to see the potential of their dreams. Graduates of the Children's Home are attending universities or pursuing careers, serving as living proof that with the right support, anything is possible: Support Warm Heart Today.
