Our Vision
A strong, capable institution for Kayah (Karenni) State
To be an institution that effectively delivers humanitarian assistance and multi-sectoral development across all of Kayah (Karenni) State.
Our Aspiration
2021Serving Karenni
since
since
About KHAI
Founded by the community we serve
KHAI delivers humanitarian assistance and sustainable development programs to local communities and internally displaced people in Karenni.
Our Story
Born from urgent need, built for lasting change
KHAI was founded by members of the Karenni community who saw firsthand the gaps in humanitarian response for internally displaced people. What began as small-scale emergency relief has grown into a multi-sector organization delivering health, education, shelter, and livelihoods programs across the region — always led by and accountable to the communities we serve.
- Trustworthy
- Compassionate
- Professional
- Community-driven
- Transparent
- Hopeful
What Drives Us
Working together for a stronger and more resilient Karenni State.
Our Mission
Building a resilient, sustainable society together
KHAI works with communities to meet basic needs and build a sustainable, resilient society through humanitarian assistance and community development, in partnership with anyone who shares this commitment.
Our Commitment
What Guides UsOur Core
Our Core
Values
These principles guide how KHAI works, makes decisions, builds relationships, and serves communities.
Diversity
We value and respect the diversity of ethnicities, cultures, perspectives, and experiences within our communities.
Independence
We act independently and make decisions based on the needs and priorities of the communities we serve.
Accountability
We take responsibility for our actions, commitments, and the resources entrusted to us.
Transparency
We promote openness and clear communication in our decisions, programs, and relationships.
Compassion
We respond to people with empathy, care, and respect, especially those facing hardship and vulnerability.
Human Dignity
We believe every person has inherent worth and deserves to live with dignity, safety, and respect.
How We Work
Our Approach
KHAI works alongside communities, partners, and stakeholders through practical, participatory, and collaborative approaches that support long-term resilience and sustainable development.
Awareness Raising, Education & Capacity Building
Strengthening knowledge, skills, and capacities so individuals and communities can better understand and respond to the challenges they face.
Community Action Research
Working alongside communities to understand needs, identify challenges, generate knowledge, and develop locally appropriate solutions.
Advocacy & Policy Engagement
Engaging relevant stakeholders to raise community concerns, promote inclusive policies, and support meaningful change.
Networking & Partnerships
Building strong relationships and networks that connect communities, organizations, and stakeholders around shared priorities.
Collaboration & Cooperation
Working with local and international organizations, institutions, and individuals who share our commitment to humanitarian action and development.
Community Participation & Sustainability
Placing communities at the center of our work and promoting participation, ownership, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
What We Stand For
Our core values
These principles guide every program, partnership, and decision we make.
Compassion
We treat every person we serve with dignity, empathy, and respect.
Trust
We build lasting relationships through honesty and accountability.
Transparency
We are open about how resources are used and decisions are made.
Self-reliance
We design programs that build lasting capacity, not dependency.
Our Journey
Growing impact, year after year
2021
Founded
Years of continuous service in Karenni State.
42,000+
People Reached
Across health, education, and shelter programs.
18
Active Programs
Running across communities in the region.
30+
Local Staff
Community members leading the work on the ground.
Organizational Structure
How KHAI is organized
From governance to field delivery — the people and teams behind our work.
33
Full-time Staff
Male: 19 | Female: 14
4
Volunteers
Male: 4
37
Total
Staff & Volunteers
- Board of Directors
- Executive Director
- Deputy Executive Director
- Program Manager
Supporting teams
- Technical Support TeamCoordinates with the Board and Executive Director
- Project and Finance ManagersCoordinates with the Project Coordinator
Want to support our work?
Whether through volunteering, partnership, or donation, your support helps us reach more communities in need.
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