Overview
Community Renovation and Building Project in Krabi, Thailand

The renovation project in Ao Luk will focus on the local Non-Formal Education Centre as well as surrounding schools. The NFE Centre provides educational opportunities for those in the community that otherwise would not have access to these resources. This is also where GVI Thailand hosts their free English classes for the local community throughout the year. The buildings are old and dilapidated but with some hard work and assistance the Centre could become a useful place for the community to meet and the additional classroom space will allow for added classes in language as well as music, arts, and vocational skills. In addition, volunteers will 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 travelling 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.