A short story about us
At our local Thai Sunday school, we met parents who deeply wanted to support their children’s education but faced challenges they could not easily overcome. Some were still learning English, while others were unfamiliar with how math is taught in American schools. Even something as familiar as multiplication had changed: the traditional times tables they remembered were now taught through different strategies, models, and vocabulary. Private tutoring was often too expensive, leaving many families unsure of where to turn.
When parents began asking Audy and Lindsey to help their children with math homework, they gladly stepped in. As they spent time with the students, they realized that these children were just as capable and eager to learn as anyone else—they simply needed someone to guide, encourage, and believe in them.
In the heart of Chicago’s Thai community, CTYL began with a simple request for help.
That realization inspired something bigger. What began as a few students helping younger children with homework grew into Chicago Thai Youth Learning: a student-led organization dedicated to expanding educational opportunities for Thai youth in Chicagoland and underserved communities in Thailand.
As high school students, we may not have every answer, but we know that our time, knowledge, and compassion can make a meaningful difference. Through free tutoring, mentorship, educational resources, and community partnerships, we hope to help every child feel supported, confident, and excited about what they can achieve.
CTYL was founded on a simple belief: no child should be held back because help is out of reach—and young people do not have to wait until adulthood to make a difference.
Credit: FB Wat Dhammaram Chicago
Our Mission
Chicago Thai Youth Learning brings young people together to help close that gap. As high school students, we utilize our knowledge and ongoing learning to support Thai children in Chicagoland and underserved communities in Thailand.
Through free tutoring, mentorship, enrichment programs, educational resources, and community partnerships, we help students build confidence, discover their potential, and imagine greater possibilities for their future.
Our mission is straightforward: to ensure that distance, language, or financial circumstances never stand between a child and the opportunity to learn. When young people support one another, even a few hours of our time can open doors that last a lifetime.
20+
4+
Partner Schools
Tutors
300+
Free Tutoring Hours Delivered
Tutoring
Our student volunteers support middle and high school students while building connections across cultures and communities. Grateful for the educational opportunities we have received, we want to share what we have learned with students who may not have access to the same resources.
Our tutoring is about more than completing homework. It is about building confidence, encouraging curiosity, and helping every student recognize their own potential. One lesson at a time, we are learning from one another and opening doors to brighter futures.
We believe talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.
We Are The World, We Are Thai Children.
"Give a Man a Fish, and You Feed Him for a Day. Teach a Man To Fish, and You Feed Him for a Lifetime." (Philosopher Lao Tzu)
Location
Address
7059 W. 75th St, Chicago, IL 60638
Hours
Monday - Friday
9am-5pm
Contacts
gsopavanich@gmail.com