The Foundation’s long-term goal is to be self-sufficient in terms of finances and skills. However, we still rely heavily on volunteers to provide specialised support and, where possible, train locals to eventually carry on the vision. So, we still need you! The Foundation’s community development programs has made significant progress through on-the-ground involvement from volunteers such as dental therapists and assistants, teachers, horticulturists, nurses, chiropractors, optometrists, builders and specialist occupational therapists. They have helped with all of the programs. Where possible they have provided training to the locals so that the Foundation can eventually become self-sufficient. For example, Iwan is trained in oral hygiene and runs dental clinics when the dental therapist in not around. Mimi has been trained in some aspects of occupational therapy and conducts clinics three mornings per week for about eight children with disabilities. She has also received some instruction in basic first aid. We need specialists in health services, occupational therapy for the disabled children, teachers to improve local teacher skills, energy conservation. You have skills. You can make a difference!

The Foundation will help volunteers with travel arrangements to Nias and return. Volunteers can stay in one of our two self-contained bungalows on the Foundation base between Lagundi Bay and Teluk Dalam. The bungalows are situated on a quiet beach in Hiliamaeta village with great views over the coral reef to the world-class surfing waves of Sorake Beach. You can view the magnificent sunsets while relaxing on the bungalow veranda. Each bungalow has a kitchen. Fresh produce is available from local shops and the produce market in Teluk Dalam. There are also several local restaurants within walking distance of the base and more variety is available about 5 km away in Sorake Beach. A motorbike is available for daily hire if you want to get around and explore the adventures, landscape, traditions and culture of south Nias. The Foundation charges a competitive rate for bungalow hire and the profits help support the community development programs of the Foundation. Other accommodation is available in local boarding houses (losmans)at Sorake Beach, and close to the surfing action. We can arrange transport to and from the Base.

We all need to take time to wind down and relax - to “smell the roses”. You can wind down marvelling at the beautiful sunsets from your veranda or the beach. The world famous Sorake Beach is a short distance away for the eager surfers. We can organise fishing and boating trips, snorkelling, tours of the villages to delve into the local culture, and guides so you can enjoy the walking tracks to good views, the jungle and the occasional waterfall.