Can't believe we have already spent a week in this beautiful country! The weather here is warm and wonderful even in the monsoon rains. Our small but eager group has been busy working at the SEEDS Training Centre and assisted in the creation of a storefront for students to sell their wares, as well as building and painting walls in their previously unfinished building. Another participant, Terry Shupe has taught woodworking classes on his eighth and (what he claims to be his) final visit to Sri Lanka since 2005. His students were smiling the entire time after building cars and trivets with him.
We visited previous DWC project sites at Ketakalawatta and interviewed 15 potential scholarship students for the 2013 Kamloops-Tangalle Scholarship Committee. We have spent quality time touring Navajeevana and I have BIG admiration for its founder and president Kumi who at 82 years of age is an inspiration to anyone that has the privilege of meeting her! I have personally committed to raising funds for this organization.
Our amazing Team Leader Raelene is a dynamo and keeps us entertained and on track. Her partners Ruwan and Anil have entertained the group at their homes. We even managed to rescue a street dog (with a broken leg) and a pair of starving kittens and find them homes as well as veterinary care thanks to Raelene and her staff. Moonstone Villas is a spectacular home base that offers five star food and service and is just across from the ocean and minutes from our jobsite. Our trip to Galle and Udewallawa Elephant Reserve were highlights for all!
Check back for updates on the student scholarship, trips to the Rock Temple and sea turtle sightings and more.
Terri Axani
DWC participant
Sri Lanka, November 2012
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