Bali Hati projects are varied, but all programs are designed to enable young Indonesian men and women to realise their individual and social potential. 

 

The underlying intent is to create an environment where love and concern, combined with educational and social initiatives, can achieve not only the spiritual and intellectual growth of individuals, but can ultimately bring about fundamental changes in the economics and social life of Balinese villagers.

 

The mission of the Bali Hati Foundation is to provide services that will long-term improve the lives of needy Balinese children and adults. Whilst surrounded by expensive resorts and shopping centres, most Balinese people are very poor.  They are also the ‘quiet victims’ in the Bali bombings.  Many Balinese who were working in Kuta and have since returned to their mountain villages, that are ill equipped for the strain being placed on them.

 

The continuation of Bali Hati’s projects is primarily dependent on the generosity of donors.  In August 2005, the government of Bali conducted a search for the most outstanding non-profit foundation in all of Bali.  Bali Hati was selected the BEST in Bali. Then, from each of 33 provinces in Indonesia, the top foundations were invited to compete in Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital.  Bali Hati was named the Number One Foundation in Indonesia.

 

Bali Hati’s magnificent premises were built from donations received by an American donor who continues to support the centre.  The premises house offices, training rooms and a commercial spa, Spa Hati (profits from this business go directly to Bali Hati programs).  Only 10% of donations are used in Administration.

 

Bali Hati runs the following programs:

 

·         Education Program – Bali Hati Foundation has supported more than 1100 students since 1997.  Most of this support is through supporting local schools.

·         Community Education – there are two areas of focus.  English and computer skills.  The program offers state-certified English and computer courses.  Up to October 2006, more than 1700 students attended these courses with more than 50% of the students on scholarship.

·         Bali Hati School – started in 1999 and offers elementary grades 1 through 6.  At least 50% of students at Bali Hati School are on scholarships.

·         Health Program – this program began in response to the 2002 bombing with assistance at the site and medical and financial support to over 90 bomb victims.

·         Mobile Health Clinic – now operates throughout Bali and provides dental treatment for children as well as gynaecological and medical services and health education for villagers.  Over 6000 people have benefited from this program.

·         Social Program – projects based on needs of the community and have included food assistance and providing livestock for poor families, recovery relief programs (Bali Timor Refugees 1999, Bali Bomb 2002, Yogya Earthquake 2006), government school renovation projects, orphanage renovation and self-sustaining community projects.

 

Benefits of working with Bali Hati

 

·         Bali Hati Foundation is an established, respected and organised group providing support where needed.  Close links with Rotary have already been established.

 

·         An opportunity for a broad range of members to participate in a volunteer project. Many overseas projects have a high construction component, but this project requires a wide range of skills to a wide range of members.

 

·         Whilst there are many worthwhile projects to many needy countries, this project, whilst helping poor families living in 3rd world conditions, is close to western style accommodation and facilities.  This may be the first time many members have had an opportunity to experience volunteer work.  This project makes volunteering accessible to more members.

 

·         An opportunity for members to share in the joy of participating in a ‘hands on’ project and seeing the difference that Rotary can make in the lives of our close neighbours.

 

·         An opportunity for our members to meet with the Rotary Clubs of Ubud & Ubud Sunset who are a mixture of local and ex pats.  There is also a Rotaract Club of Ubud, a group of dynamic and fun young people.