Thailand – Elephants & Community Building for Teenagers

Hua Hin, a captivating city renowned for its beaches, serves as the backdrop for this immersive program. Explore the local culture, indulge in culinary delights, and engage in meaningful volunteer work.

Participants in the Hua Hin volunteer program contribute significantly to diverse and impactful projects uplifting local communities. The program seamlessly combines renovation initiatives and elephant protection & stewardship, promising a unique volunteer journey in Thailand. This immersive experience extends beyond volunteer work, encompassing cultural activities, up close work in an ethical elephant sanctuary, work to improve facilities in local communities, and exploration of Thailand’s natural wonders, fostering a comprehensive cultural exchange.

Week 1: Elephant Sanctuary Volunteering

As a volunteer at the elephant sanctuary, you will work in an ethical refuge that provides rescued and injured elephants with the opportunity to live in a natural, chain-free environment. The sanctuary was created by a local non-profit to give elephants retiring from the tourism industry a safe space to roam, socialize, and recover in a near-natural habitat. The largest elephant enclosure is 20 hectares, featuring forests, lakes, and grazing areas.

Volunteer tasks include:

• Cleaning and maintaining the elephants’ enclosures, pools, and mud baths
• Creating enrichment activities to stimulate the elephants’ mental and physical well-being
• Observing and documenting elephant behavior in their natural surroundings
• Harvesting and preparing plant matter, such as banana trees and grasses, for feeding
• Feeding the elephants and ensuring they have a nutritious diet
• Washing the elephants and guiding them to forage in the forest
• Caring for the dogs that also reside at the rescue center

Please note, there is no physical interaction with the elephants as the sanctuary follows a strict “hands-off” policy. Volunteers play a critical role in supporting the elephants’ care and ensuring their long-term well-being.

Week 2: Construction and Renovation Program

During the second week, your volunteer work will focus on construction and renovation projects aimed at improving the local community’s living conditions in Hua Hin, Thailand. Many families live in poor housing, and public facilities such as schools, temples, and hospitals are in need of repair.

Volunteer tasks include:

• Renovating local housing to improve sanitation and safety
• Assisting in building and plastering walls, repairing roofs, and painting
• Working in community areas like schools or hospitals to enhance local infrastructure
• Supporting light construction activities such as cleaning the area, mixing cement, and preparing materials
• Collaborating with local coordinators to ensure the tasks are completed safely and effectively

You will work about 4-5 hours per day, with close supervision to ensure safety during construction activities. This program will not only offer practical construction skills but also foster cultural exchange with local community members.

These two weeks provide a balanced and impactful experience, allowing volunteers to engage in wildlife conservation during the first week and community development in the second.

Internet: will be available in the accommodations, allowing participants to stay connected with family and friends during the program.

Laundry: facilities will be provided on site.

Accommodations: the center features shared single-gender dorm rooms and is equipped with security measures, providing a comfortable and safe living environment for participants. Teenagers will be placed in rooms with other teens in the program itinerary only. The rooms are placed in houses with other volunteers of all ages as part of a larger program.

Food: Participants will enjoy three meals a day, offering a variety of authentic Thai  dishes mixed with a western style foods to accommodate an international group.

Please take note of this project’s minimum requirements:

• Interview with GoEco Advisor
• Parental consent it required
• Two Character Reference Letters
• Decent fitness level
• Time management and organizational skills
• Other vaccinations as advised by your doctor for travel to Thailand
• Adaptability to challenging conditions and diverse cultures

The Travel Highlights of this program promise a rich and varied experience, seamlessly blending cultural immersion with captivating activities. The itinerary is meticulously designed to engage participants in a spectrum of activities, ensuring a well-rounded and enchanting journey through Thailand. Cultural immersion unfolds through traditional Thai cooking classes, enriching cultural workshops, and visits to local markets, providing participants with a deep understanding of Thailand’s vibrant traditions. Notable highlights include market visits, allowing participants to explore the local culture and flavors, as well as excursions to picturesque waterfalls and temple explorations that provide insights into Thailand’s rich heritage. This diverse array of activities ensures participants create lasting memories while exploring the cultural and natural wonders that Thailand offers.