We need people with compassion, commitment and leadership to join our team and spend two weeks building homes. The work is hard, the hours are long, and the rewards are unimaginable.

In December 2005, the first team of TRIP volunteers arrived in Sri Lanka to start work on land purchased by TRIP Canada near the southern town of Tangalle. By February 2007 over $300,000 was raised and more than 75 volunteers, working alongside Sri Lankan labourers, had built a village including 24 homes, a community centre, playground, two retail shops and a prayer centre.

The experience so inspired all its volunteers that TRIP decided to continue rebuilding in the same area. Now the focus is rebuilding damaged homes and schools for families impacted by the tsunami and the ongoing effects of poverty.

TRIP has sent more than 85 volunteers to our work site since inception. Our volunteers come from all across Canada and all walks of life. While they vary in age, experience and background, all came with the same positive attitude and desire to work hard and make a difference. The five volunteer teams have varied in size from 15 to 28 participants.

  Participants learn a lot just by putting themselves in this situation. They experience:

• The reward of serving others and how it contributes to a full and satisfying life.
• Learning that one small act of kindness can have big impact and does make a difference.
• The personal fulfillment from doing demanding physical labour in a foreign environment.
• Immersion in a developing country and new culture.
• Challenging human dynamics working and living 24/7 with a diverse team.
• Value of getting involved and personally delivering a very tangible donation.
• A deeper appreciation for friends and family; for the simple things in life; and, for the numerous benefits of living and working in Canada.