Overview
Community Construction Volunteering in Thailand

This renovation program in Ao Luk focuses on local schools and the Non Formal Education center. This center provides the local community with educational opportunities - without it the local community would not have access to learning resources. It is here that GVI provides the community with free English lessons throughout the year. Sadly the buildings are old and dilapidated but with your help and assistance the Center could return to its former glory and become a focal point for the community and the additional classroom space will allow GVI to provide more language classes as well as other subjects; vocational skills, music and arts for example. Volunteers on this program may also help renovate and improve rural schools in the area.

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One of the best things about this project in Thailand is that you do things and see things that you would never see if you were traveling with friends or alone. You are completely immersed in the culture and you experience the real Thailand, as opposed to experiencing the tourist side of things

Hannah McMurray, GVI Volunteer

What Difference Does This Project Make?

By helping to do basic renovation such as painting, minor repairs, picking up litter, landscaping, volunteers will have the opportunity to help create a useful place for the local Ao Luk community to come together in a central location. The NFE Centre is located in a central location where much of the community lives and works. With a bit of work the Centre can evolve into a dynamic community centre providing an inspiring place for the community to seek knowledge and education, make added income from teaching classes and selling goods, and create a warm environment for the community to share their love of language, arts and music.

Highlights

To renovate the local Non-Formal Education Centre to create a functioning community centre. Create and improve a new English library for community use. Help improve local schools by picking up litter, painting, and doing general repair and upkeep. Experience local Thai culture working alongside students and community members. Learn some Thai language and enjoy the beauty of the region through cultural and adventurous side trips.

Location

Ao Luk is a rural district of the Krabi province of Thailand located along the Phang Nga Bay of the Andaman region. It is a beautiful example of a traditional Thai community with a backdrop of towering karst rock formations. The local community is extremely warm and love the chance to get to know foreigners and practice their English.

Field Conditions

You will be living closely with your team of fellow volunteers and staff. Accommodation will be dorm style with a shared bathroom which will have electricity and running water. Meals will be simple Thai food. Days will be spent fixing, cleaning, painting, and making general renovations at the local community centre or at schools around Ao Luk.