Description

If you would like to help single mothers in crisis, Cultural Canvas Thailand (CCT) places volunteers at Wildflower Home Foundation. This is a home for single mothers who do not have the means to take care of their kids. The women are all from hill tribe groups and many are in their early teens. The home offers a temporary and safe shelter to mothers and their children from crisis situations such as pregnancy out of wedlock, domestic abuse, and severe poverty. They also provide mothers with educational and emotional support, which will help to move them from crisis and poverty to steady jobs or continuing education. Wildflower Home is a in a rural setting just outside of Chiang Mai, that is similar to the setting from which these women came. The two positions available for our volunteers are:

1) Teaching English in the afternoon and general upkeep of the foundation during the day

2) Taking care of the children at the daycare (all day)

Upon arriving at Wildflower Home, the volunteers will be assessed as to their likes and dislikes so that their time spent volunteering is comfortable.

Highlights

Chiang Mai has a close-knit volunteer community, and is a great place to pause and help out the numerous groups we work with. It is the second biggest city next to Bangkok, and never ceases to amaze with its dazzling temples, lush and mountainous landscape, and distinct Lanna culture.

Qualifications

No specific training is required but we expect future volunteers to become acquainted with the issues pertaining to their placement prior to arrival in Chiang Mai.

Volunteers should be self-motivated, patient, team-oriented, independent and respectful. Remember that the issues you will be dealing can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Please be sure that you are up to the task.

Intern Types

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Costs vary according to program length.

Program Fees Include:

Transportation - Whether you are arriving by bus, train or plane, PBen (Thailand's finest street navigator), will take you to and from your destination. You will also be driven to and from your placement organization and any other CCT event taking place.

Food - Cee, our live-in house mom, takes care of volunteers by cooking their meals daily. She makes delicious Thai meals with fresh, local ingredients, and can accommodate dietary restrictions.

Housing - You will be living in a shared accommodation Thai-style home, located near the city center in a safe and quiet neighbourhood. It is within walking distance of various markets, cafes, and Chiang Mai's active nightlife.

In-country orientation/Training - Upon arriving in Chiang Mai our in-country director will make sure that you have a thorough understanding of Thai culture and are set up to live comfortably for the duration of your stay. This includes assistance with getting a cellphone, or locating markets.

In-country staff support - You will have 24 hour in-country support, as it is part of our job to make sure you are enjoying your experience abroad.

Language instruction - Every volunteer is given three hours of Thai language instruction to help them better communicate during their placement.

Medical insurance - The basic plan we offer covers both medical and dental insurance but if you want a more comprehensive coverage (extending as far as theft/damage of personal property) you may inquire about our Gold Travel Health Insurance Plan.

Pre-departure orientation/Training - After paying your initial deposit fee, you will receive a orientation package that will better prepare you for living abroad. We are happy to answer any questions you have via email or Skype.

Registration fees - This includes all the preliminary work it takes to place you within your desired organization as well as all the preparatory paperwork and actions needed to get you settled, including written materials abroad and written materials pre-departure.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18+

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Phone/Video Interview
• Resume

Typically The Application Process Time is

One Week

Cultural Canvas Thailand's Mission Statement

To generate awareness and volunteer support of the current social issues facing Chiang Mai, Thailand. We promote equality, community interaction, and social change through artistic outreach and volunteer services in conjunction with local organizations. Cultural Canvas Thailand and our partner organizations focus on education and assistance in the following areas: people living with HIV/AIDS, refugees, impoverished ethnic minorities, former sex workers, mentally and physically disabled people, and single mothers.

Year Founded

2005