Thailand has continued to be one of the most tempting destinations for those who are seeking a combination of enchanting natural surroundings, alluring culture, and incredible biodiversity. Breathtaking silvery beaches lapped by warm, crystal clear waters are complemented by friendly locals, mouth-watering local delicacies, and an ancient and fascinating historical heritage rooted in Buddhist origins.
Many orphanages in Thailand have an integrated school on their grounds, which is also available to the poor families of the region. Housing, food and teaching materials are also provided for the poor students. This level of support and encouragement is so important to those who would otherwise not have sufficient access to educational facilities and represents a real opportunity to improve their livelihoods and standard of living, and improve the future of the next generation. The experience of being involved in such a worthwhile and wonderful project will surely have an enduring effect on your outlook on life.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING?
Introduction week
Your first week is designed to give you an opportunity to explore the history and culture of Thailand, and of course Singburi, with visits to local sites of special interest such as nearby markets, sample the local cuisine, familiarise yourself with Thai customs and meet the local people, as well as hopefully learning some key phrases to help you get by. Following this wonderful opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your new surroundings, your briefings for the volunteer work will begin along with language classes and cooking lessons throughout the week.
Volunteer work
In your second week you will be introduced to the orphanage system and the varying work possibilities for your placement. Besides teaching English you may also get the chance to work with the children in their vegetable garden, contributing to their subsistence lifestyle, and create activities and workshops for cultural exchange, environmental and other important issues. There is always much needed renovation work to be done, and beautifying of the orphanages, which can include building and painting walls, and making floors and libraries. Depending on your interests and experience you may also get the opportunity to get involved in arts and handicraft activities.
While some of the children may not be orphans in the Western sense of the word, they do come from poor families who cannot afford the costs of education. As a result the children will live in the orphanage and eagerly learn from the teachers and volunteers, returning home to their families during the holidays. During the holidays the work will mainly consist of spending time with those orphans who have remained behind and carrying out maintenance work on the site.
