United Planet launches an all-new Thailand Volunteer Program

United Planet has just announced its launch of Thailand Volunteer Quest, a program to promote a deeper level of cultural exchange and understanding between volunteers and the Thai people, while also making a vital contribution to an underserved community.

United Planet’s Thailand volunteer program originally ran through 2006 and, with this new launch, now offers opportunities for volunteers to teach English as a second language in three schools based in Ranong, Thailand, on the Andaman Sea. To celebrate the launch, United Planet is offering a 10% discount on all Thailand Volunteer Quests booked by May 31, 2009.

Three placement options are available at local schools — one serving Burmese children, and the other two, Thai children. Formal teaching experience can be beneficial, but is not required for this Quest as assistance and materials are provided. Volunteers can assist with classroom activities in addition to teaching English.

Stuart and Ying, United Planet’s In-Country Coordinators, are looking forward to welcoming volunteers to Ranong. “Ranong has been our home for the past six years and we love the province for its natural beauty. The children in the Thai and Burmese schools here are in desperate need of assistance with their English language skills. Teachers in the schools are hoping that many volunteers come, so that children from both communities have the best opportunities for their future,” said Stuart, who is originally from England.

A record 1.4 million college graduates are currently unemployed, according to CNNMoney.com. To stay ahead of the curve, many recent graduates and working professionals are venturing overseas to gain international experience. “This is an excellent time for people to strengthen their resumes and expand their international expertise while making a vital contribution to the world community,” said David Santulli, Executive Director of United Planet. “When the job market is tight, it’s an outstanding opportunity to think outside the box.”

Thailand is a hot travel destination, owing in large part to the spice and variety of its food, people and beautiful landscape. This tropical country is bathed in sunshine and benefits from warm temperatures all year round. Ranong is one of the few unspoiled locations in Thailand, despite its abundance of waterfalls, lakes and rivers.

The Thailand Volunteer Quest is flexible: volunteers can commit anywhere from one to 52 weeks. Prices start at $1295. The program fee includes pre-departure training, insurance, accommodations with a host family, all meals, English speaking guides, orientation, excursions to local temples, mangrove forests, waterfalls, and hot springs. Airfare, vaccinations, and visa fees are additional.

For more information on United Planet’s Thailand volunteer program, please visit http://www.unitedplanet.org/volunteer-in-thailand.

United Planet is an international non-profit organization with 501(c) 3 status, based in Boston, MA, which offers volunteer abroad programs from one to 52 weeks in 50 countries worldwide. In 2008, United Planet was selected by CNN as one of only ten organizations for its ‘Be the Change’ initiative.