The Thai Elephant (Chang in Thai) is the National Animal of Thailand. For centuries, the elephant has been a sacred and iconic presence in Thai culture. As much as elephants are an important part of Thai culture, sometimes they fall on hard times and when they do, they need our help.

On Saturday, 19 May, Yannix Volunteers visited Elephants World, the elephant conservation center. Elephants World was founded in 2008 on the banks of the River Kwai by veterinarian Dr. Samart Prasitthipol and his wife. Initially, the center was established to care for a small number of elderly and injured elephants in urgent need. Over the last decade, the center has become a sanctuary for elder elephants, homeless elephants, elephants with health problems, and elephants whose owners could no longer care for them.