International Partner Stories

Our international partners accomplish amazing things with volunteers. Read their stories.

Volunteer assistance is critical to enabling our international partners to create change in their communities. Many of them have shared the work they were able to accomplish with the help of international volunteers. Read their stories below.

Jessica's work-study experience at IHF Chiang Rai print story

October 10, 2012

International Humanity Foundation , United States

"It is such a shame after just one short month to be leaving IHF –
someone grant me an extra free month! Alas, I have to move on and so I must reflect on the great privilege it has been working with the people and children here at the centre in Chiang Rai.

I have of course learnt a lot, volunteering with IHF is an experience that involves you in the running of the charity from advertising (slightly tedious I must admit), through to holding fundraising events and helping to improve the charity’s media presence, as well as working on the ground in helping to upkeep the centre and teaching the children art and English.

However, not only have I gained valuable work experience, but
I have learnt about the beautiful country that is Thailand and its
culture. I’ve eaten a lot of random food, tasted fruit which the kids
have picked whilst climbing trees on the way back from school, and seen a LOT of temples. I’ve briefly attempted and failed to learn Thai (ridiculously complicated!) and definitely heard MANY Thai pop songs courtesy of the girls at the centre.

To condense the experience into a series of moments seems near impossible, but highlights have to include teaching the kids how to make no-sew bunting, taking them on a trip to a nearby waterfall and clambering over rocks behind it and learning that Gene Kelly tap dancing to ‘Singing in the Rain’ brings joy that crosses all cultures, ages and time. It’s been a blast –thanks IHF Chiang Rai!"

Jess