The Asia Center Foundation (ACF) in Phuket plays an essential role in supporting underprivileged children, especially those from Thai and Burmese backgrounds, by providing access to education, care, and skills necessary for a brighter future. Since its founding in 2001, ACF has established a presence as an independent Christian charity and registered NGO. Its purpose is to pave the way for long-term change, tackling the root causes of poverty through practical, targeted interventions.
One of the core activities of ACF is its early childhood programme at the Cornerstone Learning Center. Many of these children come from families facing economic hardship or instability. The centre offers foundational education, daily meals, transportation, healthcare, and exposure to sports and creative activities. By addressing basic needs, the ACF creates a stable environment where children can focus on learning and developing social skills, luxuries that would otherwise be inaccessible for many.
As these children move through the primary educational years, ACF continues its support by expanding its curriculum and offering quality, English-based education. The intention is to build self-confidence and help children develop critical thinking, communication, and life skills that will prepare them for higher education and, ultimately, employment. Language barriers, limited local school capacity, and a lack of documentation often hinder the progress of Burmese migrant children in Phuket. ACF’s education programmes are a lifeline, ensuring these children don’t slip through the cracks.
The Scholarship Program, active since 2005, highlights ACF’s commitment to sustained development. Over 700 children have benefited, receiving funding that covers school fees, uniforms, transportation, meals, and study materials. This sustained investment prevents the common scenario in which children abandon education mid-way due to unaffordable costs. The programme maintains strong oversight, keeping in touch with recipients, tracking academic performance, and supporting families to create a home environment conducive to learning. This approach increases the chances that beneficiaries can finish their studies, break the poverty cycle, and help their families thrive in the long term.
ACF invests in enrichment and mentorship. The organisation realised early on that children must also develop confidence, leadership, and hope for the future. ACF runs weekly youth groups for teenagers that feature a curriculum based on “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers,” alongside programmes for sports, including football and rugby, and music lessons. This variety gives young people space to discover talents, form friendships, and develop a sense of belonging and responsibility, an essential buffer against the risks many disadvantaged youths face.
ACF’s impact extends into the wider Phuket community through partnerships and outreach. By working with local organisations, participating in sports tournaments, and engaging with international schools, ACF ensures its beneficiaries have exposure to broader social and professional networks. Volunteers, both local and international, play a significant role in teaching, mentoring, and organising events, broadening horizons and creating a diverse support system for the children.
One example of a meaningful partnership is with The Zero Phuket, a company deeply engaged in community support. The Zero provides funds, hands-on volunteering and, crucially, offers employment to ACF’s programme graduates. This step closes the loop, graduating students have real opportunities to join the workforce, become self-reliant, and act as role models for others following the same path. Reliable employment is one of the most effective ways to break the poverty cycle for good, for individuals and entire families.
Vid Randelovic, co-founder of The Zero Phuket explains his philosophy, “Supporting Asia Center Foundation is an investment in Phuket’s future. We believe that by opening doors to education and stable employment, we can help break the cycle of poverty for hundreds of children and their families. It’s a privilege to witness their growth and welcome these future leaders onto our team. The Foundation relies on donors, volunteers, and partners to deliver its programmes and expand its reach, essential factors for scaling up and meeting the needs of a growing population of at-risk children”.
For those inspired to help, opportunities abound: donations of money, supplies, or time all have a tangible impact on children’s lives. Whether through regular financial support or volunteering skills, the community’s involvement multiplies the effect of ACF’s programmes. As more organisations like The Zero Phuket become engaged, the prospects for disadvantaged youth in Phuket only improve.
By focusing on education, mentorship, and targeted support, ACF helps children imagine and achieve a future that breaks away from the constraints of poverty. Its work is evidence that genuine, practical support can transform individual lives, but also the soul of the wider Phuket community.
