Volunteer in Thailand (North and South) and Laos

  Laos

• Luang Prabang: 
Luang Prabang

  Thailand

• Bangkok: 
Bangkok
• Chiang Mai: 
Chiang Mai
• All Other Areas in Thailand: 
Surat Thani,  Chonburi,  Trang,  Nakhon Pathom,  Khon Kaen,  Nong Khai,  Udon Thani,  Nakhon Phanom,  Chiang Rai,  Nakhon Ratchasima
• Phuket: 
Phuket

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Every Month

Description: Our program provides an inside perspective you never get as a tourist! You find yourself teaching and working with teachers, students, Buddhist monks or orphans, assisting in rural schools, or supporting locally based eco tourism.

Experiences like these will surely broaden your perspectives! The hospitality of your hosts, learning to live simple and in the in the moment, and to know the pleasure of simple uncomplicated friendships. You will return home with a greater appreciation of other cultures and life styles!

Choose from the following programs:
Short-term or long-term Volunteering.

Though no specific educational or work background is required, our programs would be particularly appropriate for those interested in or studying the following: international studies, political science, education, environmental studies, cross-cultural studies, anthropology, sociology, Asian or Buddhist studies, women's studies, and development studies. Programs are experiential and educational and designed to utilize the initiative, individual skills and interests of self-directed students, academics and professionals.

Qualifications: : No prior experience or specific skills required. However a desirable volunteer profile is a person who can adapt to unexpected situations and accept local and simple living and working conditions, speaks fluent English and is computer literate. Volunteers will be informed upon arrival at the orientation for new volunteers. Volunteers should at least be 18 years old.

Cost in US$: 350 per month plus Reg Fee 354

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: An openminded , curious, helpful, adaptable and patient person who likes to work with people from other countries and cultures and ready live like his/her local colleagues; A person who likes and can take own initiatives and ready to work alone if required. This program may appeal to a variety of people: educators, students and professionals to build cross cultural, field work and research skills. Volunteers are generally interested in a having a cross cultural adventure. They are immersed in the culture, living with generous Thai/Lao families. This is a service-learning experience. You will work with teachers, students, professionals and practicing Buddhist monks. Projects include teaching, teacher training, and locally based eco tourism. By living and working alongside local Thais/Laos, you will gain a true perspective of the culture, customs and traditions of these wonderful, colorful countries.

Age Range: 18 - 70

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 3-4

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Resume
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Open mind projects's Mission Statement: Open Mind Projects is a bridge to knowledge and cross-cultural understanding, bridging digital and knowledge divides between rich and poor. Open Mind Projects arranges placements for international volunteers to schools, Orphan Homes, other institutions and projects, in Thailand and Laos. Open Mind Projects cooperates with these schools and institutions with learning ideas, technology and international volunteers. Schools and other learning/youth institutions in developing nations are understaffed and under resources. New information technology and international volunteers help offset this advantage. Open Mind Projects wants to facilitate valuable cross-cultural experience, personal development, for volunteers and local childeren and students. An opportunity to learn about other cultures while making local and international friends, within an affordable backpacker budget.

Year Founded: 2001