General Impression
Overall Rating: / 10
I really liked this first volunteering mission. Nothing ever goes quite to plan in Thailand and you have to learn to let go. I went without a lot of expectations, anxious to see if I could be of help to others and I have discovered that I have a lot to offer ... and that there is a lot of love to be given.I truly gave my whole heart to the Wildflowers of Thailand and their children. I will miss them dearly and I hope that someday I am given the opportunity to know where the road took them after their stay at the shelter.
Country
Thailand is such a wonderful country. It wasn't nicknamed the country of Smiles for anything. If you don't smile people will assume that something is wrong and will enquire about it. But thankfully it is easy to smile non-stop as the country has a lot to offer in terms of novelty. Food, museums, markets, architecture, temples ... walking around Chiang Mai was my favorite activity.
There is however a misperception from foreigners I think. Although Thailand is happy to offer a wonderful nightlife to expats, the locals are rather conservative. Foreigners that dress and behave appropriately are respected and appreciated. This little gesture can do a lot for you.
There is however a misperception from foreigners I think. Although Thailand is happy to offer a wonderful nightlife to expats, the locals are rather conservative. Foreigners that dress and behave appropriately are respected and appreciated. This little gesture can do a lot for you.
Project & Staff
This mission was eye-opening to the challenges the hill-tribe women that choose to flee from a house of abuse may face. It was also a wonderful about the resourcefulness and strength of the human being. I learn that you don't have to be superman to positively impact the lives of others. To be there for them, with an open heart and love can do wonders. Essentially I was expected to help out around the property, garden, kitchen, office, etc. the women really do try to be as self-reliant as possible to save some costs and it involves a lot of work. It was great to be able to interact with the staff, the women, and the children. They are hungry for entertainment and they will tease you offering you strange-looking fruits waiting for your reaction (or teach you swear words waiting for you to embarrass yourself ... children will always be children). I will miss everyone dearly.
The local team was ok. They were nice and professional. They solved problems when they came along. But I have found that they are unlikely to go out of their way to help out or listen. They do what they consider to be their job and that is it. Which is okay but a bit cold.
The local team was ok. They were nice and professional. They solved problems when they came along. But I have found that they are unlikely to go out of their way to help out or listen. They do what they consider to be their job and that is it. Which is okay but a bit cold.
Tips
The work isn't difficult. It is just helping out around this big house. You will find that these are incredibly strong women but that they are sometimes not very confident and scared and that some children need to learn how to be children again. Make them laugh and be a helpful positive presence for them.