Adina
and Nick at the volunteer
house in Kozhimala Village
Adina
a day trip
to
Peryiar Tiger Reserve
Adina
with members
of the Mannan Tribe
I think Yearoutindia is a great program that truly affects the lives of the community
members involved. I think that the program is very well thought out and implemented.
It is successful at bringing volunteers and community members together to bring about
change and sustainability.
YOI staff and coordinators were very helpful iwhen arranging my trip.
It was very last minute (short notice on my part), but Navin and Nitin
arranged everything for me rigth away to make sure my departure to
the project site went smoothly.
I was impressed by the accomodation at the project site.
Safety was my biggest concern but all my fears were
eased once I got to the house. The people there helped
to make it comfortable and safe by welcoming me and
ensuring that I had all my needs met. Ambadas (staff)
was always there to help during my stay. I found the
food difficult at first because I'm not used to spice
in my diet. However the staff were unbelievably accomodating
and made seperate meals for me at an earlier time which
made the adjustment so much better. YOI staff really
went above and beyond my expectations. If I ever had
a query or concern there was always someone supportive
to ask. Most of the time I didn't even need to bring
anything up because I was asked on a regular basis if
everything was ok and if I needed anything.
I had an incredible time at the project site. It was
just the experience and type of program I've always
wanted to do. Building is not a typical activity I do
so it really challenged me. It was great to work with
the people in the village and I have the upmost respect
for their hard work and skills. They were always friendly
and appreciative as well. It was amazing to have the
opportunity to develop connections with people from
such a different culture and way of life. On my final
night we had a party and I was amazed at the gratitude
of the people there.
I feel that taking part in this program showed me the
"real" India. I had the amazing opportunity of going
to a very remote part of India that most people would
never know about or learn from. The significance of
the poverty situation in India cannot be underestimated,
we all require an deserve basics such as water and shelter.
