“Build, understand, develop” are the pillars of the work Habitat for Humanity carry out across 17 countries worldwide. Their aim is to provide more than just aid through bricks and mortar but to also rekindle a sense of safety, dignity and community in impoverished areas around the globe. On Wednesday 16th of October, Mary McGarry of ‘Habitat for Humanity’ took part in an information session to highlight the upcoming Student Build taking place in Cambodia and to raise awareness of the continued efforts by the organisation to improve the increasingly inadequate accommodation faced by millions in other countries, such as Romania, Ethiopia, Malawi and India.
Students from all across Ireland are invited to engage with the programme and join the build taking place from 23rd May to the 24th June in Cambodia, those who take the step will be rewarded with the enriching experience of reviving a community and will take part not only in the development of homes, water sanitation, and electricity access but also cultural activities and a celebration with the community once the process is complete.
Since 2007, NUIG have contributed over 128 volunteers to Habitat for Humanity’s cause in countries ranging from Ghana, Honduras, Bangladesh and Zambia. With the Cambodia build the hope is for this longstanding relationship to continue to reap benefits for those facing poverty and to further enhance the work being done by the charity.
Those interested are urged to sign up as soon as possible and can find all information on habitatireland.org or by emailing gv@habitatireland.org.
With that in mind, Lorriane Tansey, ALIVE programme coordinator said, “We have lots of students on campus interested in volunteering on international projects. We have two big tips to a successful international volunteering experience. First, volunteer locally either here in Galway or in your home community so that you get a good idea and understanding of what it will be like to volunteer overseas. Second, do your research and do not hand over money for deposits or applications for volunteering without knowing if the organisation is a charity or a travel company. Always check the not-for-profit status of an organisation and simply ask them if the funding for the charity is going to the project in the community overseas”. Students with concerns or questions and interest in international volunteering should visit ALIVE in Aras na Mac Leinn to pick up a copy of the helpful guide on international volunteering and also visit the ALIVE website – www.nuigalway.ie/alive.
