Get to know 10 foundations in Indonesia that are empowering communities and supporting vulnerable groups through their life-changing initiatives and programmes.
Indonesia is a country with immense cultural diversity and social challenges. Amidst the various issues it faces, many foundations are dedicated to creating positive change in society. From animal protection and children’s education to empowering the underprivileged, these foundations make a significant contribution. Here are ten foundations in Indonesia that have a notable impact on various aspects of people’s lives. Of course, expatriates in Indonesia are welcome should they wish to make a contribution.
1. Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA)
Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA) is a foundation that focuses on animal welfare, particularly dogs and cats, in Bali. This foundation provides medical services for stray animals, including vaccinations, sterilisation, and treatment. In addition, BAWA also educates the community on the importance of animal welfare and works to reduce the population of stray animals through adoption programmes.
BAWA plays a vital role in efforts to save animals whose lives are threatened by less hospitable environmental conditions. The foundation provides temporary shelters for animals requiring medical attention and collaborates with local communities to create a better environment for animals in Bali.
- Website: bawabali.com
- Instagram: @bawabali
2. Bali Children Foundation
Bali Children Foundation focuses on providing better educational opportunities for children from disadvantaged families in Bali. The foundation offers educational scholarships, and skills training, and supports children in continuing their education at higher levels, both domestically and abroad. One of its flagship programmes is supporting children in rural areas of Bali who lack access to adequate educational facilities.
Additionally, the Bali Children Foundation works with local communities to build schools and improve educational infrastructure. With proper education, children are given the opportunity to achieve brighter futures.
- Website: balichildrenfoundation.org
- Instagram: @balichildrenfoundation
3. Bumi Sehat Foundation
Bumi Sehat Foundation focuses on maternal and child health, intending to provide quality medical care for pregnant women and postpartum mothers as well as infants and toddlers. The foundation offers safe delivery services, vaccinations, and health education for mothers in remote areas.
Bumi Sehat is also recognised for its environmentally friendly approach and sustainability principles. The foundation not only offers medical services but also educates the community about the importance of health, nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle to prevent diseases.
- Website: bumisehatbali.org
- Instagram: @bumisehatbali
4. East Bali Poverty Project (EBPP)
East Bali Poverty Project (EBPP) is a foundation focused on poverty alleviation in remote areas of Bali, particularly in the mountainous regions. EBPP works with local communities to build essential infrastructure such as schools and health clinics, and provide access to clean water.
EBPP also offers skills training, such as sustainable agriculture and handicrafts, to help local communities improve their economic situation. Additionally, EBPP establishes schools in remote areas to provide education and ensure that children have access to better opportunities in the future.
- Website: eastbalipovertyproject.org
- Instagram: @eastbalipovertyproject
5. Happy Hearts Indonesia
Happy Hearts Indonesia is a foundation with the mission of rebuilding schools damaged by natural disasters and providing quality education for Indonesian children. The foundation has built over 200 schools in disaster-affected areas such as Aceh, Yogyakarta, and Lombok.
The foundation also raises funds to ensure that children’s education continues in disaster-stricken regions by providing safe and comfortable facilities. Through Happy Hearts Indonesia, children across Indonesia can continue their education despite the significant challenges posed by natural disasters.
- Website: happyheartsindonesia.org
- Instagram: @happyheartsindonesia
6. Harapan Project
Harapan Project is a foundation focused on street children and those in vulnerable situations. The foundation provides temporary shelter, education, skills training, and psychological support for children trapped in street life.
Harapan Project aims to give these children a second chance, allowing them to live a better life away from the difficulties they face on the streets. Through empowerment programmes, the foundation helps children start a new life filled with hope and better opportunities.
- Website: harapanproject.org
- Instagram: @harapanproject
7. SOS Children’s Villages Indonesia
SOS Children’s Villages Indonesia is part of an international network that provides shelter for children who have lost their parents or cannot live with their families. The foundation offers a safe and loving environment for children who need permanent homes.
In addition to providing family homes, SOS Children’s Villages also provides access to education, medical care, and psychosocial support to help children develop well. SOS Children’s Villages focuses on fulfilling children’s basic rights and helping them grow in a supportive environment.
- Website: sos-childrensvillages.or.id
- Instagram: @sosindonesia
8. Yayasan Kasih Anak Kanker Indonesia (YKAKI)
YKAKI is a foundation dedicated to supporting children with cancer in Indonesia. The foundation provides medical care, psychological support, and financial assistance for families with children battling cancer. YKAKI is also active in raising awareness about childhood cancer and the importance of early detection.
With support from the community and donors, YKAKI helps ease the burden faced by children and their families during cancer treatment. Additionally, the foundation provides emotional support to help children and their families remain strong throughout the treatment process.
- Website: ykaki.or.id
- Instagram: @ykaki
9. Yayasan Sayap Ibu
Yayasan Sayap Ibu provides support for children with special needs, particularly those with mental and physical disabilities. The foundation offers educational services, therapy, and skills training to help children develop according to their potential.
The foundation aims to help children with disabilities live independently and contribute to society. With a compassionate approach, Yayasan Sayap Ibu creates an environment that fosters the development of children with special needs.
- Website: sayapiibu.org
- Instagram: @sayapiibu
10. Smile Foundation (Yayasan Senyum Bali)
Yayasan Senyum Bali, better known as the Smile Foundation, works to improve the welfare of the Balinese people, particularly children and underprivileged families. The foundation provides access to medical care, education, and economic empowerment programmes for the community.
The Smile Foundation also organises various social and educational activities to help the less fortunate people of Bali achieve a better and more prosperous life.
- Website: senyumbali.org
- Instagram: @senyumbali