I work for a charity called Generation Journey,(w)ww.generation-journey.org The thailand part of the website is still under new re-development but in summary, we are forming a community on the Burmese border for those displaced and disadvantaged in the town of Sangkhlaburi.

We have been developing this project for 2 years and have had to overcome many obstacles, but the rains are finishing and the first residents will be able to move to the village this year.

Our aim is to make this a self-sustaining community, that works to integrate the young and old, sharing youth and wisdom in harmony.

Why do I tell you this??

I depart for Sangkhlaburi for a year on 26th October. I desperately need to link with willing workers in order for the community to develop further.

We have a 12 month building programme, farming, Solar power energy installations, community care to include caring for elderly, teaching english to children and monthly projects for the youth and elderly to engage.

Are you able to assist or point me in the direction of an organisation that would suit Generation Journeys objectives. We have previously had volunteers working in the village though this has very much been ad-hoc as they have found us. We would really hope to this year, actively recruit workers to what promises to be a challenging but fulfilling envirnoment.

Best Regards

Tom Brady

Hi Tom

I'm flying out from LHR on Nov 4 for three months, and am otherwise unoccupied!!

Can you furnish more details - pm me if you want - as I think you might have solved my "under-employed" problem!

Cheers.

Nice and honorable intentions.... but without approved work permits... illegal.

SJ; Maybe they wont get caught if they are far enough removed and do not make waves. Let them do their thing, whatever that may be. The op wants a commune type village which will be self substaining. The majority of Thai villiages would like the same thing (without) input by farang. This was a possibility years ago prior to the perceived need for electric, tv, mobil phones, trucks, autos, etc. A few people claim they are doing this, but the same people seem to always need help (volunteers, money, etc) Good luck in their undertaking.

Laudable and commendable concept.

Due to the number of at risk and vulnerable clients, specifically orphans and the elderly, will you be screening volunteer applicants?

Is this project approved by the local government and does it have the support of the DSDW (Department of Social Development and Welfare)?