What is the name of the organization, FED or GHRE?

The organization was originally founded under the name Grassroots Human Rights Education (GHRE) and is still locally known by this name. However, in 2005, we became a Thai-registered organization under the name Foundation for Education and Development (FED). This is now the official name of the organization.

What does FED do?

We are working to assist migrant workers from Burma in Phang Nga province, southern Thailand. Specifically, we run four major programs to help the migrants. These include: Education, Health, Migrant Development and Women’s Advancement.

How many people are involved at FED?

In the Khao Lak branch, FED currently has 86 total staff members with 39 teachers, 37 operational staff and 10 administration staff including three fulltime native English speakers. There are 16 Thai Staff, 3 English teachers and the rest are Burmese staff.  At any given time, we also have between 1 and 10 international volunteers. At our smaller branch in Mae Sot we have about 6 Burmese staff members.

What is the difference between a migrant and a refugee?

Although they are sometimes informally referred to as “economic refugees,” a migrant is a person that leaves their home country by choice. This is different from a refugee who is forced to leave their country because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution. Unlike migrants, refugees are not permitted to leave their “refugee camps” and have not received legal status from the government.

Does FED work with refugees?

No, the primary involvement of FED is with migrant workers— with and without legal documents. Many of these have been refugees but we do not have direct involvement in the camps.

Does GHRE have direct involvement with people inside Burma?

Occasionally, we have teams that enter Burma to help out in times of necessity to either deliver aid or document the situations. However, the vast majority of our work is done within Thailand.

Where are FEDs areas of operation?

The primary area of operation is in Phang Nga province in southern Thailand. We also have a small branch in Mae Sot, along the Thai-Burma border in the north of Thailand. Occasionally, we also work inside Burma.

Where does financial support for FED come from?

FED is awarded funding and grants from many NGOs, trusts and foundations. We also receive funding from private donors. For more information, see “Support.”

Does FED have any political affiliations?

No, FED is not associated with any political organizations or parties.

FAQs for Prospective Staff/ Volunteers

What languages do the staff speak?

The majority of the staff speak Burmese. There are also some native Thai and English speakers. About half of the staff speak English as their second or third language. While you are here you will have the opportunity to learn some Thai or Burmese if you choose.

Where is the FED office and how do I get there?

FED’s main office is located in Khuk Khak in Phang Nga Province. This is about 100 km north of Phuket and about 3 km north of Bang Niang, just off the main highway. If you fly into Phuket, you can take a Taxi or a bus to get there. If you fly into Bangkok, you can take an overnight bus down.

What is the town like?

Khao Lak is a very small town. Everything is spread out along the main highway that runs along the coast. Although there are many small shops and restaurants in the couple of tourist areas, the rest of the area is made up mostly of Thai street stands and markets. During “high” tourist season, there is a large, busy market.

As a volunteer, do I need to have experience in a specific field?

Although we appreciate volunteers with specialties and experience, this is not mandatory. What we really want are volunteers that are willing to work and are ready to adapt. Volunteers should also be proficient in English, Thai or Burmese.

What is the typical length of stay for a volunteer?

There is not really a typical length of stay as they vary from a few weeks to a year. We prefer when volunteers stay at least a month, but make exceptions in some cases. The length of stay depends on your availability as well as our needs at FED.

Where can I stay?

There are many accommodation options in the area depending on how much you are willing to pay and how long you are staying for. The costs are generally between 2500 and 6000 Baht per month depending on the facilities and location that you want. [1 Euro ≈ 40 Baht]

How do I get around the area?

Most people at FED rent/ own a motorbike or scooter to get around. It is possible to rent these on a monthly basis for anywhere between 2000 and 3500 Baht. [1 Euro ≈ 40 Baht] It is not essential that you rent one, as there are other alternatives. For longer trips, buses provide an easy way of transit.