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We will work to realize our vision through a process of self-exploration that is instigated
by exposures, sessions, readings, films, dialogues, activities, and examinations of various
issues in India from multiple perspectives. At each “site”, we will also add something of
value back to the organization, cause, and/or community through various service projects.
Yoga, meditation, Indian history, and Hindi-language learning will also be practiced and/or
studied throughout the program. From site to site, we will be traveling by various means,
including trains, chartered buses, local buses, shared jeeps, and taxis.
2010 Itinerary:
Email us at info@inspire-now.org for more specific information about this year's trip.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat (June 23 - July 2)
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Introduction of participants to the program. Orientation. Expectations. Cultural Context. Service. Immersion. Introduction to
‘education’ in India. Introduction to ‘Gandhian’ thought, experiencing the reality of
the slums of Ahmedabad, experiencing the ‘spirit’ of service being lived and feeling
the power of relationships, love and positive thought. Primary focus: to become inspired. Will work with organizations like Manav Sadhna, Gram Shree, Indicorps, Shvaas and the Nandini Village.
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Bangalore, Karnataka (July 4 - 10)
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Focus on: grassroots development, health, justice, media, education and rural-urban migration. Will work with organizations like Akshaya Patra, Sanghama, Trees for Free Avaaz, Shibumi and the Wall Project.
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LAFTI, Nagapattanam (July 11 - July 14)
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Focus on villager rights, land struggle, affected communities, “issue”-based learning. Experience of living in a village and exploring rural life. Adivasi (tribal) rights. Sessions with
inspiring leaders pertaining to social justice issues and people's movements. Exploring various notions of development
and progress.
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Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu (July 15 - July 19)
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Focus on: waste management, landfills, design solutions and food production systems. Interactions with India's ragpickers, the fishermen community and going fishing in the sea. Will work with organizations like Shuddham, Upassana and the Prakiti Design Lab. Day visits to the Sadhana Forest and Pebble Garden.
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Thiruvanamalai, Tamil Nadu (July 20 - July 25)
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Focus on: the environment, community-centric approaches to development and passion-induced action. Exploration of alternative education.
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Wayanad, Kerala (July 26 - July 31)
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Focus on: self-evaluation, holistic solutions, interconnectedness and sustainable living. In-depth look at farming issues in India through a series of workshops on India’s Green Revolution, farmer suicides,
use of pesticides and fertilizers, the possibilities of organic farming and its benefits and environmentally
sustainable living. Participation in organic farming, gardening, and composting. Fostering an awareness of what we are
consuming, where it comes from and how it affects us and others.
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Bangalore, Karnataka (August 1 - 2)
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Debrief. Evaluation. Feedback. Planning for 'what next?'
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Note: InSPIRE reserves the right to make changes to our programs at any time.
Changes are made to provide the best possible experience, protect the safety of the
participants, and respond to changing local or political conditions.
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