Perreault Magazine - 113 -
Throughout the year, paying volunteers (tax deductible $725 each) arrive for one week at a time to build shelters, plant and harvest food (grass, bamboo and sugarcane) for the elephants, help bathe them, walk alongside them, unchained for a few hours, and allow a way for elephants to interact naturally in open space, as opposed to being chained. Sound like hard physical labor? Yes. This is hard work.
It is also inspirational and life changing. There is no better way to raise your consciousness of the issue than taking an active part. There is down time: a truly immersive cultural experience. Life moves at a delightful, slower pace in the Thai community.
The program begins with a traditional Thai welcoming ceremony led by a village Shaman, an event the average tourist would never experience.
Every week there is a local evening market to attend, giving volunteers an opportunity to participate in life, Thai style and opportunities to spend time gaining knowledge with the village elders, which is a highlight of the trip. Cooking lessons with locals is also offered. But it’s the time with the elephants that will change them . . . and you.
See more at GLOBAWARE.ORG