The Kianh Foundation was founded in September 2001 by two English friends Jackie Wrafter and Jacci Garside; it became a registered charity in the UK in December 2002. It was officially registered as an INGO in Vietnam in January 2006.
The friends first visited Hoi An Orphanage in March 2001, whilst on holiday, and were immediately moved to action by the despair that they witnessed. They found 17 orphaned children with disabilities, lying 2 or 3 to old wooden beds, locked away in a dark room. The children's lives were lived out solely on the beds: they ate there; went to the toilet there. They never left the room. They had a small amount of food, no toys, no books, no games, no music. They just existed.
"Kianh" was the name of a boy with cerebral palsy whose condition, and yet innocence and hope, particularly inspired them to take action. He continues to live and thrive at the orphanage.
Vision
Our vision is to make Hoi An Orphanage a centre of excellence where all children have the opportunity to
reach their greatest potential.
Mission
To improve the health, education and quality of life for children at Hoi An Orphanage by working with the
people of Vietnam.
Values
To respect the children and adults with whom we work; and, whenever practical, to work with local people
and their values, rather than imposing our own. We are not a religious or political organisation; and
therefore do not discuss or promote any related thoughts or practices.
Vietnam Staff
Physiotherapists
Tran Minh Cuong
Nguyen Ba Khai Hoa
Le Thi Xuan Phuong
Special Education Teachers
Trinh Thi My Le
Luong Thi Kim Loan
Pham Thi Lai
Thanh Thi Tinh
Caretakers
Bui Thi Dieu Thao
Ly Thi Buu Chau
Tran Thi My Hiep
UK Board of Trustees
Chair - Wendi Bestman
Secretary - Pauline Rouse
Treasurer - Susan Phillips
UK Administration
Margi Fisher
Vietnam Staff - Management Team
Jackie Wrafter - M.Phil
Jackie is the Co-Founder and Director of the Kianh Foundation. She co-ordinates the daily care of the children with the Orphanage Director, with particular emphasis on the children with disability. Her responsibilities include liaising with the Government authorities, overseeing volunteer placements and organising all social/leisure activities for the children.
Nick Keegan - Quality Management
Nick is the Director of Business Development for the Kianh Foundation. He provides the strategic direction and is developing and promoting the Foundation’s long-term growth and financial stability. He is responsible for planning, directing, developing and managing all business-related activities.
Phan Vi - Comm. and Admin Mngr.
As a Communications and Administration Manager, Vi provides interpretation, translation and administration services and acts as liaison between the Foundation and its government partners.