Reflecting on the first full year of navigating the non-profit world, The Kostro Foundation has embarked on a remarkable journey that started unexpectedly but has blossomed into a source of inspiration for disadvantaged communities. In the words of its founders, “this journey has been nothing like we initially imagined”.
As mentioned in a previous newsletter it all began with a simple act of kindness, donating to local orphanages and causes in our community. Little did we know that this act of goodwill would lead to unexpected tax challenges. Within just two months, we recognized the need to take action and give birth to The Kostro Foundation.
As I reminisce about the past year, I can't help but acknowledge the mistakes made during the foundation's formative months and how much we have learned. However, these challenges only served as stepping stones to growth. Doors closed, but new ones opened, and the foundation continued to evolve.
Both Fai and I are business-oriented individuals, not inclined to ask for financial help. Determined and resourceful, we pressed forward with the resources we had, embarking on this incredible journey. Miraculously, sharing our story attracted like-minded angels who supported our projects.
This September and October mark significant milestones for our tiny Foundation from Ridgewood, New Jersey in the United States. Our efforts to engage local expertise and minds for sustainability initiatives, such as teaching children and villages how to cultivate their own food, and building a commercial-sized kitchen for the 80 children on the mountain, are coming to fruition.
But then, a revelation struck me. Why limit our impact to one mountain and a few children's homes when there is potential to support entire communities? Our partnership with the Karens for Christ Foundation led me to envision a broader mission encompassing 30-40 different mountain villages and their 4,000 residents. It became evident that by helping these communities thrive, we would also indirectly support the children on both the top and bottom of the mountain.
Thinking regionally rather than locally became the new approach. The Omkoi region of Thailand, with a population of 50,000 people, emerged as a focal point. I realized that to help the mountain kids and the entire community, it was necessary to address the region as a whole.
With this realization, a grand vision emerged: Omkoi International, a marathon and concert in the picturesque Omkoi mountains, set for December 2026. The event's purpose is to shed light on often-overlooked regions. The stakes are high, lives are on the line, but with collective effort and creativity, we aim to make a profound impact on this forgotten region.
As The Kostro Foundation continues to evolve and expand its horizons, it serves as an inspiring testament to the power of compassion, determination, and the willingness to adapt and dream big. This journey is more than just about being a non-profit; it's a narrative of transformation, hope, and the limitless potential to positively impact the lives of those less fortunate through comprehensive education, skill-building, and holistic support.
Jimmy Kostro
The Kostro Foundation
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