The MEF welcomes volunteers from all over the world, with all kinds of skills and interests to gain grass root entry into the local community and work with the local people in improving education and promoting the MEF’s important work in achieving improved elephant care and conservation.

The main focus of the MEF volunteer project is the daily care and treatment of the, often sick and elderly, elephants housed at the MEF. Upon arrival volunteers are allocated an elephant and will help with its care and if necessary medical treatment for the duration of their placement.

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.

The MEF project incorporates four ancillary components which are equally important in achieving the MEF’s main goal and you will be encouraged to participate in any one or more of these project components. These project components include:

MEF Charity Work, English Teaching, Ecologicl Farming and working with the Mobile Veterinary Unit.

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 frustrations and 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.

ACCOMMODATION

There are two on-site volunteer bungalows with western bathroom facilities which together can accommodate up to 20 people. The bungalows are surrounded by palm trees and overlook paddy fields. Clean linen and towels are provided. Your volunteer placement fee includes three meals a day.

MONEY

Standard volunteer placement fees are as follows:

1 month: £585 GBP / $1100 USD Visa included
2 months: £995 GBP / $1790 USD + Visa extension charges additional
3 months: £ 1400 GBP / $ 2525 USD + Visa extension charges additional

Note: Each additional month £470 GBP / $850 USD + Visa extension charges.
Note: USA visa costs are comparatively higher than most other countries
Note: Fee includes accommodation, food (3 meals per day) and airport transfers.

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.

For more information or to complete an online volunteer application form please visit www.millenniumelephantfoundation.org or email volunteers@millenniumelephantfoundation.org with any questions.