This program brings together cultures from all four corners of the earth. Alex Zaroway, Canada, 14/01/00

One of the main objectives of Hostelling international Thailand is to promote the spirit of volunteering. It was in this spirit that our organization was founded, and continues to be the foundation upon which we are able to thrive and expand. We know that the spirit of volunteering is still strong and thriving, particularly among the youth today. Thus, we have implemented several program which harness this great resource of volunteering spirit, with the goal of encouraging cross-cultural communication and consequently creating a more interactive and international atmosphere within our hostels.

" To promote the education of all young people of all nation, but especially young people of limited means by encouraging in them a greater knowledge, love and care of the countryside and an appreciation of the cultural values of towns and cities in all parts of the world, and as ancillary there, to provide hostels or other accommodation in which there shall be no distinctions of race, nationality, color, religion, sex, class or political opinions and thereby to develop a better understanding of their fellow men, both at home and abroad."

This program has many branches, one of which being a recent project wherein local Thai youth volunteer their time to connect and familiarize themselves with international hostellers and travelers thus creating cross cultural exchange and enhancing a strong international friendship which result in the guide and show for the traveler around the city and putting them in close contact with Thai culture on a personal level. Instead of being a lost lone traveler or an anonymous member of a large tour group, travelers are able to spend time interacting on a personal level with Thai youth, all the while learning about Thai culture, visiting local landmarks with a new found personal guide and generally feeling welcome and safe in a place which may initially have seemed intimidating and foreign. Hostel guest have found this program extremely helpful and were enthusiastic about spending time with the local Thai youth

Another branch of the International Volunteer Scheme involves travellers themselves giving their time to help in Thai youth hostels. Acting as "Public Relations Officers", these volunteers from around the world help in providing informatin to fellow travellers, and give the hostels a warmer, more international feel. Their work can extend from days to several months, and they create an important link between travellers and hostel management.

Volunteers have proved to be incredibly beneficial in a broad spectrum of facets: public relations,marketing strategy,language exchange, and work parrallel with staff to provide and important contact between travellers and hostel management. As the project expands and communication and culture become increasingly part of the overriding atmosphere at BIYH, we are continually aiming to bring out the true meaning and spirit of Hostelling International.

The volunteers themselves benefit greatly in being able to work closely with members of the Thai community, allowing them the chance to fully immerse themselves in another culture. Our international volunteers have found that the opportunity to live,socialize and work with those of another country is invaluable; giving them a deeper insight into the Thai culture which they may not have otherwise gained .

Volunteering for TYHA brings truly gratifying and life enriching experiences that will live way beyond your physical youth , Not to mention all the freinds, at home and abroad that will come your way as well as a practical chances to work closely with people who shares the same ideal in international friendship, youth educational travel and care for our environment and communities. To volunteer for TYHA, you can be anyone with that sense of humane internationalism and strong urge to become part of the hostelling international movement.Get Started ! Send an email with your name, address, and volunteering interests to contact@tyha.org We will connect you to the people and places where you can help most.