 Sharing a light-hearted moment in class. Photo: Amity Foundation
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The Amity Foundation, with offices in Nanjing, China, and in Hong Kong, was established in 1985 as a non-governmental organization. It was created at the initiative of Chinese Christians, who continue to serve on its board. Because it is a Chinese organization, Amity can offer a genuine partnership with Chinese professionals who have a vision for meeting the needs of disadvantaged members of Chinese society. Christians from more than a dozen countries, including the United States, have joined hands with the Amity Foundation to promote friendship and understanding and to contribute to Amity's efforts in rural development, education, social welfare and Bible printing.
The Teachers Program has been a part of Amity's efforts since the foundation's inception, and was formed to contribute to China's economic and social development. The program has been developed and refined over the years, based on the experience of a succession of Amity teachers. The program seeks to provide professional support for its volunteer teachers, not all of whom have had previous teaching experience — as well as orientation and personal support as they adapt to life in China.
 An Amity teacher with students Photo: Amity Foundation
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Schools in the poorer, rural areas of China, like others in the Chinese educational system, strive to equip students to share in the technological and scientific knowledge of the outside world. English is a required subject for college entrance. The lack of qualified English teachers in poorer middle schools places many students in these inland areas at a disadvantage. A typical Amity placement — in a teacher-training school in a medium-sized city — helps train Chinese young adults as teachers for disadvantaged areas. This meets a critical need and often lifts the morale of the entire community.
For more information, visit the Amity Foundation website: http://www.amityfoundation.org
"I can hardly wait
to get into class. [Students are] sitting there with bright smiles and
sparkling eyes, waiting for what the teacher can give them today. Restore
the joy of your teaching - come to China."
- Amity
teacher, Nanjing