1. Cultural rules concerning contact and gender:
a. Do not invite children into the volunteer quarters, nor go into a child’s room. There are many places on the WOCC property to interact with the children.
b. Use good judgment in regards to bonding with the older kids. They may only be a few years younger than you, and seem innocent of the world, but they are aware of male/female relationships.
2. Cultural rules concerning communication:
a. Please be thoughtful and culturally sensitive in answering children’s questions. Some information about your personal life and or culture may not be appropriate to share, even though children may ask probing questions.
3. General WOCC rules:
a. Women be discreet in dress (no short shorts/skirts, tank-tops – basically knees and shoulders covered)
b. Absolutely no smoking/drinking/illegal drugs on the property. You will be asked to leave immediately upon violation.
c. Observe the culture at the Children’s Community and in the village. Please respect and blend in with them as much as possible. As with many institutions, we are known by our guests and watched by the local population. The way you behave will affect the reputation of our community.
4. Gift giving:
a. Do not make any individual gifts to the children or staff especially monetary gifts.
b. Within our commune all residents are treated equally and therefore showing favoritism to a few creates envy and jealousy. There is a fair system already in place for earning rewards and benefits and it should be followed. If you wish to make a gift to all of the children or staff please tell us in advance and we will coordinate.
5. Participation:
a. The children’s safety, health and happiness are our highest priority. Respecting their traditions and schedules is very important. Consistency and Routines are especially good for the children and we try not to disrupt them often.
b. We have a children’s dorm, school, computer room, creative learning center, arts and crafts room, sewing room and health clinic on the campus. Should you wish to volunteer in any of these areas please let us know.
c. Have an idea for a short term project you would like to do with the children? Please let us know!
6. Suggestions/Comments:
a. When at Wat Opot you are in our home; please do not make suggestions upon arrival! There are certainly different ways to run a large household; but we think we are currently on the right track and have established systems that work for us.
b. Good ideas are welcome for consideration, but observe how our ways work for us before suggesting a change. We have taken into account how things work long term especially during the many times when there are no volunteers.
c. Your presence and willingness to work alongside of us is appreciated. You will be joining our community; therefore subject to the rules already in place.
If you are willing to follow these rules please contact us at wocommunity@gmail.com and request a Volunteer form for submission. We look forward to having you in our community.
The Watopotians