Global Citizens Network: Thailand

  Thailand

• All Other Areas in Thailand: 
Chiang Rai

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks and 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Inquire for dates

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.

Cost in US$: USD 2,225

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

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

Participants Travel to Thailand 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

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Global Citizens Network's Mission Statement: Global Citizens Network recognizes the interdependence of people around the world, and that social and economic injustice, racial and ethnic inequality, and ecological loss affect all people. But through cooperative effort, individuals of all cultures can experience and enhance their ability to make a difference in their community and their world. To foster that cooperation, Global Citizens Network sends short-term teams of volunteers to communities in other cultures where participants immerse themselves in the culture and daily life of the community. Each volunteer team is partnered with a local grassroots organization active in meeting local needs. Global Citizens Network creates a worldwide network of people and organizations committed to addressing global issues. By providing participants the opportunity to learn about the society, knowledge, art and livelihood of other cultures, Global Citizens Network seeks to honor and help preserve those cultures. By providing the resources of participating volunteers and project grants, Global Citizens Network seeks to assist human and community development in those cultures. By creating a network of people and organizations, Global Citizens Network also seeks to enhance participants' impact on issues of local and global concern.

Year Founded: 1992