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volunteering and holiday in kerala

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travelling to india, there are too many choices, like what you really want to do in india. I recently stayed with a keralan family and did some volunteering work for their family run environmental organisation, viswadarsanam. In return they organised various sight seeing trips and took me to local temple festivals, weddings, trekkkng etc. It was truly enjoyable experiencing the country without being a typical 'tourist'. I had a fabulous time. Just thought i'll share some info about viswadarsanam and voluntary work opportunities.
17 years ago, July 11th 2006 No: 1 Msg: #6639  
Viswadarsanam is an environmental organization located in Kerala, South India, set amidst just over one acre of lush green vegetation. It attempts to tackle big world problems on a small scale, by promoting an alternative lifestyle on the family level that will benefit nature and conservation and in turn, benefit humanity.

Viswadarsanam was founded on June 5th 1987, World Environmental Day. The aim of the centre is to promote a holistic and natural way of life, one in which is in symbiotic union with nature promoting sustainable development and leading to health, happiness and peace in society.

Viswadarsanam's AIM 2006 - 07

• To communicate understanding and awareness of environment protection and sustainable living through booklets, brochures, newsletter and web updates
• Facilitate local schools Eco-Club environmental programs and develop the message of environment awareness and protection within the communities
• Organize camping, bird-watching and nature trips for adults and children
• Support the small cottage industry within the center
• Develop, upkeep and maintenance of the organic herbal and vegetable garden


Working Holiday
The center is set in rural Kerala on a small area of land given over to conservation and education on environmental protection. The visitor is offered the experience of living on-site with a Keralan family sharing regional food, culture and traditions. The district capital Pathanamthitta is close by via bus. During your stay you will be working on numerous projects and tasks depending on the knowledge and skills you bring to the organization.

Their biggest need is for volunteers to commit sufficient time to grow a project. They need education specialists, computer and creative professionals, administrative volunteers for planning and implementation. Also, gap-year students are warmly encouraged to come and work within the community as a way to experiencing and understanding how an environmental and self-sustaining project functions.

Volunteers will experience an alternative lifestyle at Viswadarsanam. A rich and rewarding working holiday, where your efforts will significantly enhance the environmental ‘greening’ within the community.

Viswadarsanam Contact Details
Viswadarsanam, Feny Land, Naripuram, Pin-689 513, Pathanamthitta District. Kerla, India
Reply to this

16 years ago, November 29th 2007 No: 2 Msg: #23303  
Have you ever thought of volunteering in Tamil Nadu?
Together with my Indian wife (I am from Netherlands) we invite volunteers to come over and stay with us and work in NGO's.
If you want to explore what is possible, check:

Best regards,

Camille
Amaidi
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