Description

Global Citizens Network (GCN) sends small teams of participants to rural communities around the world where they are immersed in the daily life of the community. Trips to Thailand last two-and-a-half to three weeks, depending on the site; each team is led by a trained GCN team leader. The team works on projects initiated by people in the local community, for the benefit of the community. Such projects could include setting up a library, teaching business skills, building a health clinic, or planting trees to reforest a village. Projects may not be decided upon until shortly before the arrival of a GCN team. Volunteers should be aware that everything is subject to change.

As worthwhile and fulfilling as the work you do will be, the true rewards come from the cross-cultural learning which takes place on these trips. A unique and integral component of your experience includes daily activities of cross-cultural learning. You may test your skills making local food, visiting a nearby tea factory or the family farm, learning a local dance, and discovering the history and rich traditions of the area.

When you have the chance to learn first-hand about people from other cultures, you will feel connected to others in ways you may have never experienced before.

Highlights

Located in the far northern part of Thailand, Chiang Rai is known as the Gateway to the Golden Triangle the meeting point of Thailand, Burma and Laos. Founded by King Mengrai in 1262, this town was intended to be the new capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Only 34 years after its founding, however, the capital was transferred further south to Chiang Mai. Chiang Rai, thus, declined in importance. Today it is one of the fastest growing towns in Thailand, attractive as a trekking base for tourists as well as a sought-after location for second homes for wealthy Bangkok residents.

The GCN experience is time in the host community, which allows for plenty of time to get to know the local community in your own way. Often team members like to explore the surrounding area for an occasional day trip. There are many opportunities to partake in cultural ventures depending on one's interest. This picturesque region is well known for its trekking. Additional attractions include many unique wats (Buddhist temples), visits to other hill tribe villages, viewing of handicraft production and wonderful hill tribe market, among many others.

Qualifications

Although no special skills are required to participate, we believe everyone has skills -- some yet to be discovered. Each participant contributes what they can. If any expertise is needed for a project, the local community will provide these skills.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

USD 2,700

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

The program fee covers in-country travel and lodging, most meals, orientation materials, medical and emergency evacuation insurance (not for US/Canada sites), on-going program costs and a donation to the community development project. Airfare is additional. All trip-related expenses are tax-deductible in the U.S.

Many people ask why they have to pay to volunteer. GCN receives primary financial support from program fees and individual donors, while relying heavily on volunteers to make our work successful. Also, while individuals may be able to travel for less to many of these places, GCN provides the entrance into a village and exposure to a culture that one could not receive if traveling solo to these places. Through the long-term partnerships that GCN has established with communities around the world, participants immerse themselves into the daily life of villagers and gain a unique perspective, while making a contribution in the lives of others.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Participants range in age from 8 on upwards, and come from the U.S., Canada and beyond. Students, nurses, computer programmers, social workers, teachers, families, individuals, and retirees. these are just some of the people who join our trips.

Age Range

8 - 88+

This Program is open to

American, Australian, Canadian, European and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 6-12

Scholarships are Available

Global Citizens Network scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial & circumstantial need. Because our Scholarship Fund is very limited, we generally award scholarships to those who would otherwise not be able to participate without financial help; please keep this in mind when you are applying. Scholarships are awarded for up to USD 250(domestic), USD 400 (international) per individual, USD 500 per family per year.

Application Process Involves

• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

1 week

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Global Citizens Network's Mission Statement

In partnership with people of diverse cultures, GCN promotes cross-cultural understanding and interconnectedness through authentic immersion experiences.

Year Founded

1992