World Concern, the international arm of Christa Ministries based in Seattle, Washington, has been instrumental in establishing the Mekong Minority Foundation. Active in Thailand since 1983, World Concern has sought to provide relief and development solutions for the poor by partnering with churches and other organizations.

In 2004 World Concern Thailand made the decision to phase out operations in Northern Thailand, and the Chiang Rai branch subsequently began the process of registering as a local foundation. On the 1st July, 2005, the projects and staff formerly under World Concern were officially transferred to the Mekong Minority Foundation.