Vacation with a Purpose

Six months ago long time international educator Charlie Franck (Saudi Aramco Schools, I.S.Bangkok, I.S.Kenya, CAC Egypt) applied for the Habitat for Humanity Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project 2009: Mekong Build taking place from November 15-20. In May he was notified that he had been accepted as one of the 3,000 volunteers from around the world who would build 166 homes in Thailand, Vietnam, China, Cambodia and Laos, all countries along the Mekong River. In addition to the notification, Franck was assigned to the host country, Thailand and worked in the same location as the Carters.

In honor of Thailand's King Bhumibol’s 82nd birthday, the Carter Work Project built 82 houses in Nong Kon Kru village outside of Chiang Mai. Prior to the 1,500 volunteer’s arrival, new homeowners had contributed many hours of sweat equity towards their new community and homes. When we arrived the roads had been paved, sewer systems were in place and trees had been planted around the community. In addition, the foundations had been laid and all the materials for completing the houses were strategically placed for easy access.

The volunteers were divided into teams ranging from 10 to 20 people and each team was assigned to one particular house for the work-week. I helped build house #30 with the home owner, Sunisa Sae-taw, her husband and two young sons. Sunisa and her husband are part of the Hmong Hill Tribe. Throughout the week we worked in large and small groups or individually depending on the task. With each hour we grew in terms of our ability to coordinate tasks and transition from one job to the next with seamless effort. It was truly amazing what we accomplished in the short five days we had on site. The houses were modest in size but offered enough room for each family and the protection of a roof over their heads, as well as a community of like minded individuals who came together for a common goal; to live in their very own home. All this was accomplished by unskilled housewives, models, lawyers and retired people giving their time to make a different in another's life.

Former President Carter summed up the experience eloquently during his opening speech when he said, "This will be a truly transforming experience for many of you." It was for me and for many others that I spoke with throughout the week.

We, as international educators, live a privileged life. I encourage you to take some time to help others; it doesn't matter whether it's with Habitat or a local school. Consider taking a "Vacation with a Purpose". It just might change your life.

Charlie Franck retired in 2007 and presently lives with his wife Tricia in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. Charlie can be reached at [email protected]

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