International volunteers play an important role at the Millennium Elephant Foundation contributing to the daily running of the charity. We were the original elephant volunteer project in Sri Lanka and welcome volunteers from all over the world, with all kinds of skills and interests. Through the different elements of the MEF volunteer project, voluntourists have a unique experience, gaining grass root entry into the local community and work with the local people in improving education and promoting MEF’s important work in achieving improved elephant care and conservation, protecting not just our own herd but elephants all over Sri Lanka!

The main focus of the MEF is the daily care and management of elephants. Upon arrival you will be allocated an elephant to work with and will help with its daily care and if necessary medical treatment. Working under the direction of your elephant’s mahout, you will be required to assist with its feeding, bathing and grooming throughout your stay; and hopefully build a special relationship with your elephant! As you get to know your elephant you will also learn to recognise its sounds and movements and get to know its moods and feelings, its individual traits and its temperament. You will also learn to discern the signs and symptoms of possible approaching sickness. This requires dedicated care and responsibility.

During your placement we need you to use your initiative to develop your own ideas and follow up those of previous volunteers. We are here to help you work towards improving MEF and promoting the foundations projects both locally and internationally.

There are 4 main aspects to volunteer work here at MEF

• MEF The daily care and treatment of your elephant as well as the administration, fundraising, research and museum maintenance needed to support the foundation and our many projects aimed at improving the lives of elephants and people all over Sri Lanka.
• Eco-farm Volunteers will work alongside our gardener growing many fruits, vegetables and medicinal herbs that will be used in elephant care and in the restaurant!
• MVU Volunteers will always be invited to assist the vets on visits to sick elephants and to the Peraheras (religious parades) the MVU vets supervise.
• Teaching We have set up informal after school clubs attended by children and adults of all ages, for a few hours a week volunteers can help these children improve their English skills. Teaching qualifications are not necessary.

Volunteers must able to work independently within the guidelines of the project. Patience and perseverance are essential, enthusiasm and a willingness to accept another culture will mean you get the most from your volunteering experience.

As a reward for all your hard work you will receive a commemorative certificate, printed on poo paper, the chance to receive an elephant shower and ride from your new best friend and memories to last a life time!

As a volunteer you will have the opportunity to experience and immerse yourself in a different culture. Undoubtedly you will face the day-to-day challenges that are Sri Lanka, but overall you’ll be greeted by the warm Sri Lankan smile and hospitality, and struck by the sheer beauty of your surroundings. You will have at least two days off a week depending on your workload, giving you ample opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

ACCOMMODATION

The onsite volunteer bungalow with western bathroom facilities can currently accommodate up to 12 people. The bungalow is surrounded by palm trees and overlooks paddy fields. Clean linen and towels are provided. Your volunteer placement fee includes three meals a day, which are provided by Club Concept Restaurant located opposite MEF. Do not expect the range of food available in Colombo, however the food will be fresh, nutritious and delicious- you will be helping to grow it in the Eco-garden! and wherever possible special dietary requirements will be accommodated. Most bedrooms are shared facilities with en-suite bathrooms, there is a basic kitchen area with sink, kettle and fridge freezer, a washing machine and a lounge area with a library.

Whats Included

Accommodation onsite, 3 meals a day and a fortnightly BBQ!

MEF Volunteer T-Shirt

Airport Transfers- we pick you up and drop you off!

Tour of our onsite elephant dung paper factory

Towels, Linen and Mosquito nets

Washing Machine, Kettle, Fridge Freezer

Library

Christmas Tree

Volunteer discounts and exclusive trips around the island for both work and play

Certificate of your placement and we can provide a reference for future employers.

For Qualified Vets wanting to volunteer we can acquire the relevant licenses to practice.

Volunteer placement fees

• 1 month: 150,000 Sri Lankan Rupees
• 2 months: 255,000 Sri Lankan Rupees
• 3 months:  360,000 Sri Lankan Rupees

Note:

Visa’s must now be applied for online in advance of travel.

USA visa costs are comparatively higher than most other countries

We understand that the volunteer placement fee is a significant sum of money, however, please be assured that the proceeds of your funds go towards the implementation of the volunteer project and support the ongoing work of the MEF. As a volunteer you will go far beyond the usual tourist experience and it is your chance to make a real and lasting difference to the community of people and elephants. Whenever you are volunteering it is always better to book direct so that you know 100% of funds are going towards the project.

Please see out volunteer experiences page and our blog to get an idea of the experiences that you will have!

 For more information please send an email to volunteer@millenniumelephantfoundation.com  or apply using our application form below!