Shanti Bhavan Children's Project - Volunteers: Volunteer Experience: Reports

Volunteer Experience: Reports

Volunteer Reports By:

Miss Peggy
Music Teacher
Draper, Utah, U.S.A

Dear Choir,

I miss you all! When Laura Dunn wrote me an email and told me how beautifully you sang for the filming, I was so proud of you. It's been almost three months since we sang together so thank you for managing to remember all we did. I am so glad that Rajini could remember the piano part and that some of the older girls helped Mrs. Dunn with getting the parts clear.

I can't even imagine how I'll feel when I view the film and see all of you singing beautifully together. I know it will make me want to be there with you.

Professor Lambert is feeling much better than when we were at the school. He has been seeing a doctor here who is very good, very sensitive and kind, and really listens well. Right now Prof. Lambert's medications are working well for him and he feels good. He still has Parkinson's Disease, but all is going well. He is driving our car around the city, and goes for walks with a neighborhood dog.

A friend of mind gave us a horse to keep for the next six months, so Prof. Lambert has to walk down the street to the pasture and has to feed and water the horse and move him to the other pasture for the day, then bring him in at night. Right now our weather is beautiful so it is a pleasant job, but around November it won't be so nice. By the way, our horse's name is Larry! He is 20 years old and very dark brown. Quite gentle, too. We hope our grandchildren will enjoy riding him when they visit.

I send my love to all of you. Thank you for everything!

Volunteered: April 2006 – June 2007
Rahul Madhavan:
University of Puget Sound ‘08
Johns Hopkins University
School of Advanced International Studies
South Asian Studies Program: Program Manager

A school providing children a world-class education, in a clean, safe, and beautiful environment abundant in greenery, with proper labs for the sciences, books of all sorts, nutritious and delicious meals five times a day, clean and spacious dormitories, a caring and loving staff, committed and highly intelligent teachers, and programs ranging from art to computer science, all for free. Seems unreal? Far from it. I can personally vouch for the amazing work being done here at Shanti Bhavan, and am entirely pleased that you are taking the time to learn more about this noble endeavor by reading these volunteer reports.

Most of you reading this report have already heard of nearby Bangalore in its glitz and glamour as being the Information Technology hotspot from the turn of the century. The benefits from the modernization that has occurred in this city, not far from Shanti Bhavan, have hardly tricked down to the villagers in the rural periphery. Rather, it is as though the development in the Bangalore region exhibits a ripple effect, with the global capital infused city serving as the epicenter. Spreading towards the outskirts of Bangalore, though significantly weaker as it goes, are the new living structures, shops, factories, and schools springing up.

Shanti Bhavan is itself a unique epicenter, potentially one which the ripples of effects ideological, cultural, ethical, ad societal, will extend far beyond any distance imaginable. The school, along with other nearby projects of The George Foundation serves as a constructive force aimed at balancing the drastic disparity that exists between the poor, rural sector and the nearby booming metropolis by providing education, healthcare, job opportunities on farms, and aiding the empowerment of women.

The nature of the foundation’s mission, to provide opportunity to those that would have otherwise been denied it or had no access to it, was almost immediately apparent as I first made the turnoff onto the road towards the school and other projects of the foundation. Set amidst the vast scenery of rows after rows of crop, ranging from huckleberry to banana trees, Shanti Bhavan is truly a haven of peace, as the name translates to. As we entered the gates of the school I first noticed the colorfully painted buildings that were staff and volunteer living quarters, classrooms, offices, and dormitories. Inside the guesthouse, the rooms are spacious and clean.

The excitement in greeting the children pleasantly surprised me as I entered the dining hall that evening itself- a precursor to the warmth and energy the children would continue to radiate. Trust that the children will know, or will immediately want to know much about you upon your arrival, if you are a volunteer here. The first question they asked me was how long I was staying- to which my answer of two months did not satisfy them. Rather, they were already prodding me to stay longer!
I informed Mrs. Law, the principal of the school, ahead of time that I would like to teach English and perhaps Geography. I taught English language, literature, creative writing, Geography, coached a few tennis, basketball, and baseball lessons, and taught the tabla (an Indian percussion instrument) to children in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. In my free time, I helped organize the library and on a few occasions helped the kitchen staff cook for the two hundred students. I also had the pleasure of reading bedtime stories to children in the kindergarten through fourth grade.

Through various interactions with the children in different settings, the children impressed me with what all they know. One child asked which presidential nominee I preferred during the 2004 elections while we played a game of basketball- the child was only in the fourth grade. During an English literature class, I presented William Wordsworth’s Daffodils. The seventh grade students chimed in and one child talked of how poetry is the ultimate “human platform for expressing emotion, be it admiration, love, lust, distaste, or sorrow.” They then proceeded to offer insightful commentary stanza by stanza. What this said to me, and what I am trying to convey, is that Shanti Bhavan has offered a continually solid, world-class education to these children that were fortunate to have come across such means and access to a bright, gifted and talented present and a surely successful future, all from a destitute past. These children come from extremely poor families that pursue jobs such as rag-picking, being coolies, quarry workers, and sometimes work as bonded laborers. Some children used to call home a small hut in a filthy and disease-ridden village, and some sheltered under old blue tarpaulin atop rocks. Here, at Shanti Bhavan, they are offered a world of opportunity in a safe and clean environment.

On a daily basis, the children are given the world news, and, most of the time participate in delivering the news after having read the paper or being given summaries by their teachers. Therefore, the students are socially, nationally and globally aware, at least certainly more so than other children of their age. Speaking of the news, New Delhi Television (NDTV), a premier Indian news channel came to campus during my stay here to do a report on the school. Other exciting news includes the near future visit from Indian President Abdul Kalaam.

I cannot seem to deviate from talking of the generosity and warmth of the children. Another instance that occurred shortly after my arrival to Shanti Bhavan was in the sixth grade classroom as I sat aside to let the primary teacher distribute class material. I was still a bit jetlagged, so I must have looked tired. A student approached me and noted in a quiet whisper that I was “looking a bit bored.” He offered me an English grammar book, and said “read this!” At first, I thought he was being sarcastic, but the smile on his face was indicative only of the pure pleasure he had in being able to share his reading and learning material with a volunteer.
As an American citizen, I was able to celebrate the 4th of July with the children and teachers of Shanti Bhavan. On that day, the children had made little flags and pinned them to roses. They had practiced playing the Star Spangled Banner for us American volunteers to sing to.

I come away from Shanti Bhavan both impressed and touched by the confidence and security exhibited by the students, a progression made possible by the staff and faculty that are so dedicated to enriching these students’ lives on a continuous basis. They serve as fitting role models for the children that they both teach and take care of.
This may surely be a “haven of peace”, but hardly peaceful are the minds of these intelligent, curious, and witty children that seize any opportunity to further their skills in language, math, science, computers, art, and music, as they all the while enrich the lives of those around them.

Volunteered: Summer of 2006 and 2007
Matt Farnsworth :
New York, USA

I was at Shanti Bhavan from January 16- Feb 4, 2008. During this time I had the privilege of working with these wonderful children. I taught music to preschool- 5 th grade. I also taught theatre games and self-esteem exercises to 2 nd grade to 9 th grade. During the afternoons I taught piano and theory to the piano students and 6 th grade English grammar and creative writing. I had such a wonderful time and I hope that I will be able to return soon. The last week also culminated in a concert where all the children performed in some way. They were all taught Family from Dreamgirls and the choir performed No One is Alone from Into the Woods. All the piano students performed the pieces they had been taught as well.

This school is wonderful. I love talking to the teachers and staff. I felt very taken care of and safe here as well as welcome. I spoke to Mrs. Law about the children going out and doing some community service work. She explained to me that there is a lot of politics associated with this topic, however it is in the future plans for the students. I loved being here and I feel honored to have this experience. Thank you for having me here!
Cindy & Mauricio Salgado:
New York, USA

On the last day of our trip, the ninth and tenth graders invited me up to their classroom right before lunch to share a moment. I went up to visit ninth grade, and after getting permission from Ms. Nithya, they presented me with a small package of goodbye cards and then performed one of our memorable warm up activities. They tried to put the enthusiasm into the activity that had made it the most popular chant during our visit, but it was clear that we weren’t going to be all that excited as we parted ways. Then the tenth grade called me in and simply asked me to take to the board and write out a couple of lines and scan them. I made a feeble attempt at playing out the joke but failed the goodbye weighing too heavy on me. I kept trying to call them out of the room for lunch but they kept saying that they simply wanted to review Shakespeare and I too inside wanted to do the same which says a lot considering my fear upon first arriving. This was my first time guiding a group of students through Shakespeare. I had heard of the pressure put upon the tenth grade this year due to the upcoming ICSE testing March. I felt a great sense of responsibility to provide them with a thorough and memorable experience that would help them overcome the Overwhelming test taking process, and not just when it came to Shakespeare, but in general. In the end of course, I am the one who grew exponentially from my time in the class and at meals and on the field with these students Not denying that the experience was most likely mutually felt between myself and them, but I do know that after having lived with them for the past 5 weeks, these students, as a unit, are more than ready to take on any test life has to offer.

Cindy and I spent all five weeks at Shanti Bhavan, with a couple of visits into Hosur to check the internet. Aside from that, we had no need whatsoever to get to know the country. The vibrancy of the country existed there at the school, in the dorms, in the dining hall, during assembly, when birthdays were celebrated, during movie time on weekends, and in the afternoons on the soccer fields. It was all we needed, and more. I remember one night after an exhausting day of teaching 8 classes to everyone from 10 th through 1 st grade, I was hesitant to read to the Pre-kindergarten students post dinner. More interested in returning to my room and lying in bed, I reluctantly made my way to the Pre-KG dorm and as I walked in, turned on the goofy to pass the time and make the best out of the moment. What ensued was a clown routine where I entertained the students with all the goofiness I had to offer and ended with their prayer where at its end I added ‘And may God bless the pre-kindergarten students’ to which they replied, ‘me?’ ‘wow’ I left smiling and completely re-energized knowing that at the nights end, I had fully completed my purpose to entertain a group of 3-4 year olds before going to bed and share some love. How simple and fulfilling and worthwhile.
As our time came to an end, I felt myself digress into my childhood and wanting to stay and hold on. Hold on to all the love and care Shanti Bhavan emitted through all its family. Everyone there is admirable. With clear purpose and evident humanity, the goal of creating an environment full of hope and peace was always present, and being worked toward.

On a more basic note, everything was more than satisfactory the food, the hospitality, the classes, the facilities, penny and peepers, the morning tea, the chocolate wrappers, the expeditions on the rocks, soccer matches, the assembly news, the story time at the foundation house, Katie & Harry & Ellen, and clean semi damp laundry.
We definitely felt at home.
Nicole Marie Sorice':

The moment I arrived at Shanti Bhavan I was welcomed by the cooks and the Preschool teacher. The next few days I was openly and curiously greeted by the children, faculty, and staff. The warm greetings and the beautiful campus put me instantly at ease.

During my two months stay, I taught art to the preschool, Kindergarten, and grades one through eight. I spent the rest of my time teaching computer programs with an emphasis on Photoshop to grades six, seven, eight, and nine. I had never taught computer programs before coming to Shanti Bhavan. Coming up with lesson plans was challenging at first. Once I got into the groove of the assignments and schedule it became the class I looked forward to most of all. I was very impressed with the children’s creativity and speed towards each assignment. They have proven to be quite knowledgeable and confident using computers. Also to my surprise, not only are the children deeply educated with India’s rich culture, history and politics, they are knowledgeable about other cultures and aware of the daily current events around the world as well.

I made the decision to volunteer teach at Shanti Bhavan after hearing Dr. Abraham George speak at NYU. Little did I know that would be a life changing decision. My goal in India was to give to the kids what I have learnt. In return I’ve gained a positive experience I will carry with me the rest of my life.

Thank you, for inviting me into your world.

Lauren Moon:
I have always loved kids. However, the children here at Shanti Bhavan are unlike any that I have ever met. They have an unmatchable drive and determination and a genuine appreciation for the wonderful opportunity they have been given. While at Shanti Bhavan, I taught 3 rd grade creative writing, language, & literature, 8 th, 9 th & 10 th grades public speaking, 9 th & 10 th grade basketball, and various piano & choral lessons. I found teaching the children to be the most rewarding experience of my life. They are incredibly fast learners and really have a zest for knowledge. It was easy to connect with such polite, well-mannered, and hardworking students. They dream big, and I only hope that I can continue to be a part of helping them achieve their goals.

As far as my day to day living went, I was perfectly comfortable here and came to consider it as a second home. My room was clean and comfortable and the staff could not have been nicer. However, I really appreciated the support of all the teachers. They were so welcoming and kind that it truly eased my fears and culture shock. They constantly gave me advice and befriended me and I owe as much to them for their warmth.

I honestly feel that Shanti Bhavan is the most beautiful place on earth, both physically and spiritually. It exudes love and learning, and I am very sad to be leaving. I am looking forward to my return to this newfound family as soon as possible. Thank you so much Miss Beena, Mrs Law and Shanti for all of your love and support. This has been the greatest experience of my life.
Jacques Lafortune:
Montreal, Canada

What strikes you most about Shanti Bhavan (Haven of Peace) is that... it is (a haven of peace). It is not just a catchy name that the founders thought might have been appealing a dozen or so years ago when they established the institution. Or for that matter, a name that would grab the attention of eventual well-meaning benefactors or supporters. It is also not a name, as have been seen so often in the past, that would soon lose the significance of its idealistic but impractical goals. No, quite to the contrary. If ever a name reflects the spirit, the goals and the attitudes of an institution, “Shanti Bhavan” is it.

Recently retired, I came from Montreal, Canada, in mid-February 2007 to this island of peace in Southern India. A quick tour of the premises (dorms, dining hall, school building, etc.), guided by Miss Shanti J., the affable and effective Facilities Manager, and meeting some of the academic and residential personnel as well as other volunteers, confirmed the fact that this is a well-run world class institution. The environment, the services, the facilities are all conducive to achieving its goals. But the best was yet to come.

Meeting the children (the “great kids of Shanti Bhavan”) put aside any lingering doubts or questions I would have had. Let’s face it. During the ride from Bangalore to Shanti Bhavan, I had, on a couple of occasions, raised in my mind the instinctively reactive and I guess inevitable question: “What I am getting myself into?” After all, being driven from one of the most rapidly-developing and modern cities in India into the depths of rural India with its very poor villages, oxen-drawn carriages and children playing in garbage heaps does make one wonder. The children, who come from this environment, and who are now at Shanti Bhavan, shock you into another dimension. Sure, I had read Abraham George’s book “India Untouched”, and had readily accepted his thesis that given the right education in a proper environment, even the poorest of the poor could be as successful as any other in India’s (still) caste-oriented society. But seeing the results with my own eyes confirmed that I had indeed made the right decision to come here.

Miss Beena Nair, the able and energetic Vice-Principal, assigned me to academic duties such as teaching Maths in Grade 6, Geography in Grade 9, and Computers in Grades 8 and 9. Not a trained teacher (I was assisting the professional subject teachers), I was quite apprehensive at carrying out these new responsibilities. Again, the welcome displayed by the children, their politeness and yes, their charm, made my first lessons rather easy to carry out.

One of the key, and immediately recognizable differences between the school kids back home and the children at Shanti Bhavan is the latter’s’ eagerness and willingness to discover, to explore and to learn. Beyond the many questions related to your personal status, family, children (and grand-children in my case), they do want to hear your views and opinions onf international issues, sporting events or any other matter. Quite naturally and in a very short period, bonds are established with the kids of all age groups. Quite quickly, you feel at home. Quite quickly, you’re part of the family.

Over and above the academically-related duties, I was assigned to give a hand in the well-stocked library, as well as storytelling (bedtime stories to kids ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 5). Storytelling had to be one of the most rewarding “duties”. Nothing can end a day as nicely and satisfactorily as seeing 20 to 25 children smiling and laughing just before going to bed. All the accumulated fatigue of the day and the anxiousness of preparing the lessons for the next day are forgotten. Happy, smiling children is what Shanti Bhavan is all about. And to be part of it is a privilege.

The children of Shanti Bhavan are getting the best education available from dedicated and professional teachers. The staff responsible for the children outside the classroom (the residential staff) is affectionately referred to as the “aunties”. This group of ladies is the heart and soul of the institution. They look after the children to whose care they have been entrusted as they would their own. They live with them in the dorms, are at the tables with them at every meal, and accompany them to their games or on the sports field. They are responsible for the crucial and determining period of the children’s transition from their life in a poor, sometimes destitute environment, to a clean, safe and well structured surrounding. They teach them everything from their first words of English, to table manners, and living in a group environment.

It is unfortunate that I have not had the pleasure of meeting either Abraham George or Mrs. Lalita Law, Principal, both who had been detained in the USA for personal reasons. It is they who have put together this great place. It is their vision, translated into a very specific plan of action, which makes Shanti Bhavan what it is. Their dedication to the tasks of caring for and educating India’s poorest of the poor (some come from the lowest castes) is being recognized internationally.

I told the kids and the staff, at one of the last daily assemblies of the school year, that leaving Shanti Bhavan was the most difficult goodbye in my life. Sure, I had said my good-byes to colleagues on many occasions (many assignments, different countries, etc.) Sure, one develops strong relationships with colleagues, even friendships. Solid bonds are welded in professional team environments. But one doesn’t fall in love with one’s colleagues, as one does with the adorable and incredible kids of Shanti Bhavan.

I value my experience as well as my modest contribution to The George Foundation. It was after visiting India with my wife the previous year that I had made the wish to come back to this wonderful country and “do something”, however small it may be. This wish has come true.

The motto, which the children of Shanti Bhavan strive to abide by, is
“Be The Best You Can”. They are THE BEST.
Rishab R Shyam:
Purdue University, West Lafayepte, USA

My stint here at Shanti Bhavan began on 31st August 2006 and culminated on 13th May 2007. From the time I have arrived here the facilties provided for my stay have been extremely comfortable. Every aspect on one's stay here is taken care of so that you can solely focus on involving yourself at the school. I was primarily involved with assisting the children in math and science on a periodic basis. Additionally, I was also part of the games that children learn in a formal setting during the early hours of the day. The schedule beyond class is not very demanding (depending on the courses you decided to assist in) and allows ample opportunity for involvement around Shanti Bhavan. Since, Shanti Bhavan is a little short-staffed it is easy to find out other ways to be of assistance beyond academics.

The children have a tight schedule right through the day. During class time your interaction will primarily be with the grades you assist. It’s a good idea to meet kids from the other classes during meal times and free games time. They are very respectful, courteous and easy to get along with.

Considering the background of the children it is important to understand that they are being brought up in a very protected environment. Some steps that may appear a little difficult for the children are only taken to ensure that once they are outside Shanti Bhavan they have the right bent of mind to know what is appropriate for them. In that sense it becomes important to provide them with a point of view of the privileged outside world which they will soon be joining on account of the fantastic opportunities that they have available with them while at Shanti Bhavan. The teachers and the residential staff work extremely hard to ensure that the children’s best interests are taken care of at any given point of time. Hence, it becomes important for a volunteer to back up and reinforce the value systems being taught to the children. Lest, a situation be created where the child is faced with diametrically opposite views which the teachers and residential staff would have a hard time dealing with. Any views, suggestions or observations are always welcomed and enforced based on the benefit the children can gain, and the discretion of the authorities.

The school has a huge fund of resources in its libraries for reference and other materials in storage. I would suggest getting here first and seeing what is required and then coming to a decision with regard to what could holistically help in the learning of a particular course for a given grade. In the event that one is interested in procuring materials that could be handy for the school, the wish list of the website under the donation section is a great place to start and see what the urgent and pressing needs of the school are.

The current physical and games training instructors for the children are always enthusiastic about teaching the children new sports for which equipment is available at the school. So if there is a sport for which you see that you have the material available to teach the children, this would be a great place to start. The idea is to impart to them sufficient skills so that they can eventually pursue the sport on a more independent basis during their outdoor games time.

If there are any more additional questions that you may have about spending time at Shanti Bhavan (which I strongly recommend), I can be reached at r_rishab@hotmail.com
Justin Taylor:
England

I have just completed a month of volunteering at Shanti Bhavan. This has been part of my gap year in which I have also been to Florida and Quebec in Canada. I have also made plans to travel around China in the month of July. I will enroll in Stirling University in September to study International Relations in a Master’s Degree.

My time here has been, above all else, a fantastic experience for me. This is my first visit to India, and even though I had read Dr Abraham George’s book “India Untouched” nothing could have prepared me for this. I had only a two-day gap between my trip to Canada and my trip here. My trip to Canada was a ski expedition for middle class British Gap Students. So, firstly temperatures of – 40 and the concept of skiing was very different to rural South India! Socially also it was completely different with well-off British teenagers spending thousands of pounds of clothes, eating out, and excess living, compared to families of the students of Shanti Bhavan earning barely1 dollar a day.

Enough digression from myself; and onto my time here in Shanti Bhavan. My teaching responsibilities were to teach History to the 9th grade, Geography to the 8th grade, and English to the 8th, 7th, and 6th grade. I enjoyed teaching these lessons immensely due to the civil way the students act and their thirst for learning. These subjects came quite quickly to me at school and I was able, I hope, to teach efficiently and effectively. My lesson style is informal without being out of control, and these lessons were fun for me and for the students.

I am a strong believer in class contribution and I frequently asked questions to the students, but not necessarily to the students who put their hands up! It can be the case where a few students can easily dominate proceedings, and I try to have each member of the class make a telling contribution during the course of the lesson. Such lessons such as Spelling and Dictation can be terribly boring in title, but these lessons proved to be one of the most enjoyed lessons throughout the week. I included some English slang such as “snazzy” and also the spelling of the German Philosopher Ludwig Wigginistein (not even sure if that is correct!) in one particular class. Other highlights were most definitely the World Wars 1 and 2 lessons to the present 9th grade. This is a topic which I found fascinating as a student and I believe the members of the class did too. Though these lessons involved myself talking a lot and making frequent amendments to the map, the occasional gasp and open mouthed expression from several of the students confirmed their thrill for this period in History.

My other main responsibility was the Games sessions both early morning and evening for grades 1-9. I therefore got to teach almost the entire school. Sport has been a huge part of my life ever since I was able to walk, and my addiction to it will remain for the rest of my life. In Sport, humans as a whole can connect in a way that no other activity can provide. Life skills such as compassion, determination, and responsibility are all brought to the games field. I saw a drastic improvement in all students in the sports of football, tennis, and volleyball. In particular, football, which I have been able to give my most time to, has seen an extraordinary improvement! My first football session with grades 6-9 resembled a group of 20 players (excluding the keepers we were in the correct position i.e. the in-goal area) kicking and pushing in the small area around the ball. Three weeks later they were spread out across the pitch and playing real football -- passing to each other (it appeared never to have happened before), moving into space (again “nhb”) and scoring frequently (rarely happened before). Rishab and I held many weekend sessions on the grass area outside the dinning hall, for which, in the main, 9th grade boys were involved. This helped close control, touch, and overall perception of the game, which is vital in a good player. I think we held a few too many sessions, as the student team was victorious over the teacher’s team in a match we played!

My other duties included library work, helping out in the moving of stores, bedtime reading, and sorting of the DVD and VCR collection which, at the time of writing, have all not yet been completed! I also provided grades 8 and 9 with ring binding files to keep their work in order. Many of them previously had many loose sheets, which were untidy and frequently lost. These files are for use in the 10th standard for the present 9th grade, and for the 9th and 10th Standard for the present 8th grade. At the start of the new academic year, the 7th grade will have files too. Shanti J has promised.

So these are my overall comments on Shanti Bhavan and the George Foundation as a whole. I feel that perhaps most importantly the children of SB are a huge success story. The kids never fail to amaze me day after day - their sponge-like minds remember facts and the rapid pace at which they learn. They are not only hardworking intelligent children, but are turning into fantastic human beings too, which, as the mission statement shows, is a very important aim of Shanti Bhavan. The Shanti Bhavan motto rings loud and clear in the children’s minds of being the “best they can be”.

The eradication of poverty in India can be done most effectively by a high standard of education. I do feel that at Shanti Bhavan the children do receive a very high standard in comparison not only to India but worldwide. However the school can always improve and the school must actively aim to improve day by day in all departments. There is a large feeling of naiveté and innocence throughout the children, which has not been caused by them, but the way the school is like a Garden of Eden in an “evil” world.

As the children grow in age and mind they must engage in more out of school activities and thinking “outside of the box” exercises to prepare them for the real world. One weekend a group of young IT professionals who are regular visitors and supporters of the school, came in for an afternoon and the 9th and 8th grade were engaged in several activities. One in particular caught my eye when each member of the class was asked for positive criticisms of their friends. The effect on the children was immense, showing their true inner feelings. These kinds of experiences I actively encouraged, and should, I feel, occur more frequently throughout the school year.

On the subject of positive criticisms, I am going to make a few myself about the school. Firstly, there seems to be a large problem with Bureaucracy throughout the school in terms of levels of authority which unfortunately has affected all areas. Now I myself was at boarding school only a matter of months ago, and I understand better than most that to run a school you need rules and you need leaders. However this has gone too far here, and the people in higher authority seem to be squashing any kind of creativity within the teachers and in some cases, volunteers. There were many times I saw this and one particular example will highlight this. Another volunteer and I were showing a film, which would have concluded my study of the World Wars. Now firstly the girls were not allowed to watch the film in the boys’ dorms because it was deemed inappropriate. Although not only was I present and another volunteer present, but two aunties, too. This was ridiculous but we moved to the KG room anyway and we were just putting the film in the player to start watching, when lo and behold a member of staff stopped us. Because the class teacher had not been told that we planned to watch this particular film, we were not allowed to watch it. Although I was the assistant teacher of the World War lessons, and I was using this film as an educational tool, the residential staff member did not permit me.

Remarkably we were allowed to watch another film which was not educational instead. There are several other instances where things like this happened. I likened it to the situation of the European Union where due to the large bureaucracy there is a lot of discussion but very little action. I feel there needs to be more connection within the staff collectively as a whole, otherwise I fear that sectarian groups will form even more so, which will create a bad atmosphere and have a negative effect on the children.

I also feel that the lesson plan for each week is another piece of needless bureaucracy, which the school could do without. The teachers should still plan the lessons, but have their own independent plan. This would allow teachers more freedom and add a more creative edge. The teachers should be given more responsibility in their lessons and so should the volunteers while they are here. I feel the lesson plan is a waste of time, and crumples creativity juices within the teachers.

Secondly attention to detail is something in which the school needs to improve. I am astonished that after 9 years that the idea of files has never come up. Other things such as the state of sports equipment - the tennis net is utterly unusable, and there is a lack of good balls too for football and volleyball. The sporting equipment room itself is very dusty and dirty and it’s impossible to know what is inside because of its disorganized state. I suggest that things be moved to the storage to create space.

In my young life I have been fortunate enough to be in social contact with adults from an early age and traveled extensively meeting numerous people. I have also been in several places of work as an employer which my CV shows. I have also been blessed with a good judge of character from an early age due to all this. I have seen unfortunate cases of teachers using the school as a way to increase their authority and social standing in society. They should be primarily teachers who strive to give their best to the children, and not use them as a tool for self-proclamation. It is very obvious to me in the way they speak, act, and their body language in this regard. I feel that such teachers need to change their ways or leave, as they have no place in a school like this, which promotes fairness, equality, and hard work.

In addition the way the children hold the pen has not been looked at in detail. In an English lesson I saw several incorrect ways of holding the pen from a number of different students both in 8th, 7th and 6th grade. Many teachers have been complaining of poor handwriting but have not realized that poor grip has been a large part of that problem. Another detail not addressed has been the planning of work. Teachers have set work - an example being a Creative Writing piece, without asking the student to plan before writing. Thus without planning, work becomes disorganized and jumbled. So during my English classes I encouraged a change in writing grip and a brief plan before writing.

At the ages of 10,11,12,13 and older, students accumulate more knowledge and are more likely to work quicker and in some cases in a more disorganized manner. Thus handwriting as a result will become untidy in certain students and I know this as well as anyone as I had the same difficulty during my school career. The connection between what information the brain is holding and then the transfer of knowledge onto the page is something which needs to be looked at and assessed.

I hope that these criticisms will be taken in good faith and I know that as a volunteer I had only had a month in which to experience this school life. I could have easily written a book on how great the school is and what a fantastic faculty The George Foundation provides. The fact is I fear that that would be useless and I am sure many before me have complimented in detail the school and The George Foundation projects and work. Criticisms, I feel, make us better human beings and can help us achieve greater things.

In conclusion I would like to say that all Staff (kitchen, teachers, ground, aunties, and health workers, and most of all the children) has made me feel very much at home and have extended such kindness which I have rarely experienced in my life. The setup and the way every single person at this school conducts herself or himself are a credit both to India and to the education system as a whole. The school is providing a better education than many schools in my country, and the way the children behave and act is outstanding and should be an example to every young student worldwide. I will most definitely return, I hope, with members of my family and I would love to be here when the current 9th graders graduate from12th standard. I wish everybody here the best of luck and I hope they can achieve their dreams. The children at this school can achieve anything they want; all they have to do is to take the chance they have been given and use it to the best of their advantage.

April 12, 2007
Management Notes: (1) Supervised visits by boys and girls to each other’s dorms in groups are permitted with prior approval from the residential administrator. (2) Shanti Bhavan attempts to develop teachers as well, and lesson plans are considered an essential (and required by the accreditation agency) part of that effort.
Emily Potter:
M.A. Intercultural Youth and Family Development, University of Montana, USA

I learned about Shanti Bhavan three years ago from previous volunteers, and even after our short conversation, I was hooked. I finally made arrangements to come on 28 September 2006. I am working on the second year of my master’s degree at the University of Montana and receiving credit for my volunteer service at Shanti Bhavan. I taught art, dance, and recreation classes. For my master’s project, I am filming a documentary about the school, highlighting four students’ lives.

I have had so much time to prepare for my time here, but feel humbled by how much Shanti Bhavan has taught me. I’ve written a short list for you that I hope can be helpful to you.
1. Do not be quick to judge. Unless you and I are here day to day, hour to hour, year to year like these teachers and aunties and the whole staff, we’ll never know who they are and what amazing things they are doing. Also, there really are cultural differences.
  I am learning to understand an Indian way of communicating, working, and playing. You’ll see things you like, and things you don’t like. My respect for each of the teachers and staff at this school is beyond my capacity to describe.
2. Read the other testimonials on this web site from the other volunteers. I read every one of them before I came, and their experience before mine was invaluable to learn from.
3. Read Dr. George’s book. “ India Untouched”. Order it off the internet, or ask for it in the library and read it while you’re here.
  It is common sense to be able to know (as much as you can) the people you are serving, and where they have come from, and about the children’s families who you’ll only hear about. In addition, you’ll receive a million insights into Dr. George’s vision of his foundation, as well as the struggles and the victories along the way. I thought about that book every day I was here.
4. Sit with the children at meals when you can. It’s a wonderful time to get to know them a few at a time outside of classes. When
  I first came I said to myself “Did I just drop into heaven?” I bet that happens a lot with volunteers, after seeing the children’s sweet faces and beholding their incredible obedience. The more I got to know each of them, I was more convinced that yes, there is a bit of heaven here! There are also people, adults and children alike, who have complex contemplations, worries, and delights. They have full lives of heartache and romance and tragedy and fears that a volunteer like me cannot simplify in a short three month stay. There are always two sides of the story. I realized that having spent all my time with the children, I failed to see where the aunties were coming from, their side of the story. I delight in the beauty of this family, in their strengths and frailties.
5. If you are teaching something like art, bring some of your own supplies. They have some things, but I believe the lack of supplies was my biggest frustration. They would ADORE little canvases and acrylic paint, as well as clay modeling. They did those things once and asked and begged me to do it again with them.
6. Enjoy your alone time! It was fantastic for me, as I was the only American volunteer my age here during my stay here. I loved it, and was able to work on several projects in my evenings.
I will remember that Shanti told me that now that I’ve been here, I am forever part of the Shanti Bhavan family. I feel honored to be a part of something of such a high caliber of standards. This is a quality foundation in every way, and I give my fullest recommendation for any volunteer to come and experience it for themselves.
Rachael Da Cunha:
University of Alber, Canada

Upon arrival at Shanti Bhavan I was immediately awed by the surroundings. The location, landscape, and scenery of the school were absolutely beautiful. One of the other volunteers that I was sharing a room with showed me around the campus within a few minutes of my arrival. As we walked around we were greeted by many friendly faces saying, “Good morning Miss.” This was the beginning of an amazing experience that I will always be appreciative for. I would soon realize how incredible the children and this institution were. Shanti Bhavan is not simply just a charitable school that provides poor children with a basic education; it is an institution of excellence. The belief that everyone is entitled to equal opportunity regardless of social status is exactly what The George Foundation is trying to provide for the children.

Shanti Bhavan not only offers the basic academically required classes, but they also offer classes that will shape well-rounded students. These classes include music, art, computers and physical education. However, these extra-curricular classes must not inflict on the children’s academics therefore they take additional time to participate in these activities. For those students that participate in choir or learning musical instruments, they must take time in the evening to do so.

Recently, a group of students took the initiative to create the first school newsletter in computer class. For the older grades, physical education is taught between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. They learn a variety of sports from various volunteers that come. I participated in the morning games with the children. For one week I taught volleyball, another week I gave basketball classes and we occasionally played baseball as well. Although I am not particularly a morning person, this was one of the best parts of my day. Before I came, I coached a fastball team back home. That gave me the experience to know how to go about teaching the children of Shanti Bhavan other sports that I love to play and am proficient at.

One of the most rewarding feelings is when you teach someone to do something that they couldn’t before. When someone couldn’t hit the baseball after 6 pitches I would show them the proper technique to swing the bat. That kid hit the next pitch. In the first volleyball class almost the whole group could not successfully serve the ball over the net. By the next day the vast majority of the class could consistently serve the ball. It makes me feel just as much accomplishment as the child does.

The most rewarding part of this whole experience was getting to know the children. Immediately I was approached by many of the children welcoming me, wanting to know about my family and things that I enjoy. With time, I learned quite a few of their names and also became quite close with a few. I told a lot of them if they asked me everyday what their name was I would remember it by the end of the week; sure enough when I got their name right it brought a smile to their face. I was always welcome, sometimes even begged, to sit at different tables at meal times. The younger children always asked me to come to their story time. In the afternoon I would go and play soccer with the 1 st grade children. I will never forget the shrill of excitement as I approached the field, “Look!‘Miss’ is coming!!” I was always astonished at the intense level of enthusiasm those kids always possessed…always.

I enjoyed learning about the children’s families, their likes and dislikes and their dreams and aspirations. When I asked a lot of them what they wanted to do after graduation from Shanti Bhavan, I received replies such as, “go to America to become a pediatrician”, “become an astronaut”, “become a physicist” or “run my own business”. I thought these were impressive dreams. The first step to finding success is to have a dream and the second step is to believe in it. Shanti Bhavan gave these children the opportunity to possess these dreams and the tools to make them believe. I look forward to hearing about some of the children’s great achievements that I know are yet to come.

I was involved in a lot of academic classes as well. I helped in the 9 th grade math class as well as gave individual help in the evening to two girls. On occasion, the teacher was absent so I was the substitute teacher. The students constantly had doubts in their work and looked to me for answers, but most of the time they just had to be pushed in the right direction. Most of the students need to find enough confidence in themselves in order to believe that their answers are correct. The only class that I taught on my own everyday was 4 th grade math. I introduced the children to a new problem solving technique and multiplication tricks that helped them learn these concepts with more ease. Some of the children for the first time found math fun and looked forward to it. I also took the 4 th grade to their video class. Each week a new movie would be selected that was either related to a topic the children were learning in another class or one that just had a good moral message. For the most part, it was a fun class for the children to relax and enjoy. There were many DVD’s and videocassettes that had been donated to the school. I was thrilled that the children had such entertainment available to them.

Other academic classes I attended were 6 th, 7 th, and 8 th grade chemistry and physics as well as 7 th grade biology and 9 th grade environmental science. I occasionally taught these classes concepts involving reactions, cell organelles, and other topics too. What I found the most fascinating in these classes were the labs the children were able to participate in. Lab materials are quite costly so I found it amazing that the school could offer the children such a lab experience. With limited resources, the science teachers still managed to provide visual and practical exercises to aid the children’s learning. This made me realize exactly how resourceful the school is. Chemicals were used in the utmost smallest portions and even reused if possible. The gas for the Bunsen burners was used in small rations and equipment was safely stowed away unless it was needed at the present. In the entire school, notebooks were always completely filled before a new one could be taken, only as much paper as needed was given, and even pens or pencils were used to the fullest. It was great to see the value and appreciation the children have for everything they receive.

I had a wonderful experience at Shanti Bhavan. Not only the children, but the friendliness of the staff and other volunteers also enhanced my experience. This is a community that makes you feel a part of it rather than a stranger. During my time here, I felt welcomed into the Shanti Bhavan family. I owe great thanks to this institution and The George Foundation for providing me with this eye-opening opportunity. I hope to come back and volunteer again someday. I will always be grateful to the children for giving me this unforgettable experience and I can’t wait to come back to see their smiling faces again.
Tara Gonsalves:
Brown University , Rhode Island, USA

I arrived at Shanti Bhavan June 11 th 2006 and will remember every moment I spent at Shanti Bhavan until I left July 21 st. I heard about the school through an old teacher, Mrs. Law, who is now the principal of Shanti Bhavan. I was so excited at the opportunity to work at the school, though I did not quite know what to expect upon arrival. I was to teach piano and music class when I arrived, but did not know what my other responsibilities would be.

When I got to campus, I quickly grew accustomed to the daily schedule of classes, assembly, mealtimes and snack times, and sports/music activities. I was responsible for teaching English to eighth grade, geography to ninth grade, assisting with music class for the young kids, piano to students ranging from fourth to ninth grade, as well as organizing the second library of the school and reading stories during the younger childrens’ bedtime. Although I wish I had known specifically what I would be teaching so that I could have brought more appropriate teaching materials with me, it was an interesting as well as challenging experience to acclimate myself as best I could to the classroom.

The accommodations were clean and comfortable and very close to the school building. I soon made friends with the two little gecko lizards on the walls of the room which ate up all the mosquitoes. There was a telephone in the building I was staying in on which I could receive phone calls or make phone calls if I bought a phone card. Additionally, for volunteers who plan to use cell phones, Airtel service provider provides service on certain parts of campus.

There was ample time in the day to prepare teaching materials, as well as spend time with other volunteers or staff members, or with the children. Although at first I felt as though I didn’t have enough to fill my day, after speaking with Ms. Beena, a vice principal, I was given more responsibilities. Perhaps my favorite time of each day was when I was in the classroom or working with piano students. The children are very respectful but also playful, and interested to learn about their academic subjects, but especially about volunteers’ life experiences, stories, and anything new and different.

I arrived at Shanti Bhavan nervous but excited, and left full of questions and so sad to leave students and staff that I grew close to. The teaching experience that I was lucky enough to have has made me eager to return to Shanti Bhavan after I graduate, and I am happy to share my experience more fully with prospective volunteers. Thank you to Mrs.Law, Dr. George, and all the students and teachers at Shanti Bhavan, best of luck, and God bless.
Halee Rogers:
USA

The green banana tree out my back door and the palm branch touching my barred window told me I was in India and out of place, but India became only a name on a map and Shanti Bhavan became my home where I felt belonging. The cows on the road, the women dressed in saris littering the fields like bright candy wrappers, even the local butcher with no more than a granite slab and meat hooks in a tin roof shack are just interesting memories now. The best part of India is the kids.

Sweat poured down my back as I lectured on perspective and foreshortening, but I loved every minute. Never have I met students who give their undivided attention with so much enthusiasm for anything I had prepared. I taught art because it’s my major and geography because I am interested in it and I took a few related courses at university. I was nervous to teach geography because the kids already knew so much about it, but with all the excellent resources and freedom to teach what I thought to be most important, teaching was not difficult.

After a warm breakfast, usually dosas, was Saturday morning nature walk. Holding sweaty little hands and walking through the banana farm or to the lake (at least what’s left of a lake after three months with no rain) listening to or telling stories with the younger kids was a better way to spend a Saturday than going into town where it is hot and smells foul. Any time I felt sorry for myself or missed home, I just had to do some extra curricular activity with the kids and they made me feel I would never want to leave. They have a way of melting you with their big eyes and perfect smiles. Walking towards the rumble in the dining hall on a moonlit night was somehow daunting at first. But meal after meal of good food and great company, playing games, and asking questions with the kids made me excited for mealtime. Bringing The Sword and the Stone, James and the Giant Peach, and the Magic School Bus to life before bed was so much fun. No matter how much I thought “I just can’t go tonight” I was always happy and bubbly after story time. When the kids rush to gather ‘round, teeth brushed, in their pajamas, anything you say or do for them is like watching Armstrong land on the moon.

Keeping busy from sunrise, 6:30, to sunset, 6:30, and even until 8:45 was a very fulfilling feeling. There was always so much that could be done and so little time. Any time I sat and watched the geckos on my walls, took a walk through the banana farm, or stopped to smell the numerous flowers (of the Dr. Seuss variety) I was at peace, but I knew I could do more. Mrs. Law was an inspiring school leader. The administration gave me plenty of time to myself, but I very much enjoyed sharing it with the lovely hard working women who washed my clothes and dishes, cleaned my room, and kept the fruit trees and plants groomed and beautiful. Unfortunately, we could not speak to each other because I speak no Telagu, but they were very friendly and smiling none the less. Pretty much everybody Smiles at Shanti Bhavan. It is a beautiful sanctuary where any child-or volunteer-would be privileged to live, how appropriate that it goes to the children who need it the most. And they make the most of it.

A lot of hard work, sacrifice, and-yes-money goes into lifting these- the students of Shanti Bhavan, the villagers in surrounding areas, and so many more - victims of harsh environments and a backward system. I have heard the stories of unbelievable conditions at home, and I have seen the homes were the stories originated. The George Foundation has found an appropriate way to step in and uplift the community and lives of more than 190 children. I am just glad that I got to be a part of it if only for a short while.

January-April 2006
Ursula Finkbeiner:
School Teacher, Bringham, California.

The first thing I noticed when I came to Shanti Bhavan were the sparkling, bright faces of the children. The first graders had just finished eating breakfast and with napkins still tucked into their collars marched single file from their assigned tables to the wash up room to deposit their dirty plates and cutlery. With large smiles they welcomed me, pulling on my hands and shirt wanting to be first and as it seemed the only ones- to greet me.

The dining hall opens to lush gardens on three sides which are hung with coarse netting to keep the jungle crows and sparrows out. The almost exclusive vegetarian food is excellent. Eating here actually spoiled me so much that I find the meals served in Bangalore wanting after that. All fresh ingredients are chopped and diced by at least three people three times a day. During the meals I was always informed about the health effects of the ingredients in a dish. Whether children or adults I was made aware that this or that helps against colds, indigestion or whatever. I was especially sensitive to all information, which might lead to weight reduction. The dining highlight of the week must be Sunday’s evening meal. The buzz can be heard across Shanti Bhavan “Tonight we’ll have chicken!!”

After snack time which is often a small bowl of sweetened rice the children assemble to hear the world news read by teachers or students. As all over the world grizzly death and spectacular destruction are the main topics. How glad was I when vice- principal Beena reported news from Cochin where a lucky taxi driver was invited by an Austrian couple for one month to Austria because he was kind and helpful to them. I sat next to the aunties (caregivers) when this story was told and some contemplated becoming taxi drivers. In addition to the news Mrs. Law’s mini lectures can take on surprising topics such as the importance of body hygiene. But I guess living with each other day in and day out needs leadership in society’s minutia.

What’s surprising about the physical Shanti Bhavan are its non formal and formal gardens and the diligence with which they are tended their beauty is appreciated by the students. The lawn outside the dining hall serves as quick tumbling ground for the students just after eating and before the next session.

What most impressed me and what I will take away as valuable lesson for my own classroom is the importance of simple routines and strict adherence to order. The children are busy from early morning till late evening. The change from one setting to the next runs smoothly and effortlessly. The children intermingle harmoniously in unstructured setting such as on the sports field when the rules are clear and enforcement assured.

I was attracted to Shanti Bhavan through Tom Friedman’s book ‘The World is Flat’. The student body at Shanti Bhavan appeared similar to the one at my school in the Los Angeles inner-city. Both serve students of poor mostly illiterate parents. English is not their first language. Surprisingly, we also have similar American textbooks. The residential setting at Shanti Bhavan, however, is a great advantage. Learning takes place almost twelve hours a day considering before and after school activities including the selection of videos shown. The last thing the lower grades hear after brushing their teeth is a bed time story. At 8:30pm it is ‘lights out’ for them. The upper grades return to their classrooms after dinner until 9pm for ‘prep time’. Some of my LA students might stay in an After School Program until 6pm, if the budget didn’t cut it. They return home or to a baby sitter’s house to watch ‘R’ rated action movies or unsuitable television programs till 11pm. I want to blame the latter for more strife and aggressivity in my Los Angeles school than I have found in Shanti Bhavan.

I had volunteered to teach pre – algebra to young children. It was successful. I’ll return to Los Angeles with a suitcase full of notes, letters and poems from the children. I have received precious presents from financially poor students. A fourth grader gave me a plastic statue of a soldier and a fifth grader a pendant of a flower. I will treasure both and hope to show them again when they are adults.