This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Benjamin Bamberger. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was to provide a steady supply of water to the center.
Benjamin reports:
The project went well and the Marneuli Youth Center now has regular access to water as well as renovated bathroom facilities.
Nonetheless, there was one setback. After hooking up the new pipes and filling the cistern we discovered that the internal radiated heating system in the building had numerous leaks that needed to be fixed. Fortunately, we were able to fix the pipes and pipe fittings while installing a shutoff valve so that the internal heating system could be closed off from the cistern supply in case of another leak. While doing this, we were also able to renovate the existing radiated water heater leading to an unexpected result of the project: a working heating system at the youth center!
After fixing the pipes inside of the building we were able to purchase all of the necessary materials and install a new toilet, shower, sink, and water heater in the bathroom. This means that participants at the Marneuli Youth Center can now wash their hands, shower, and have access to sanitary bathroom facilities. Additionally, all of the sports facilities are much cleaner (boxing hall, acrobatics hall, and weightlifting room) and participants have access to drinking water or water for tea.
Unfortunately, due to the unexpected need for new pipes and fittings inside of the building there was no money left over to purchase cleaning materials. However, the sports coaches were so happy to have access to hot water that they promised to purchase these materials themselves.
On behalf of the Marneuli Youth Center, I’d like to take the time to thank both Appropriate Projects and Six Senses Resorts and Spas for helping us to realize this project. This project has not only made the Marneuli Youth Center much cleaner, it has also improved our capacity and ability to serve our participants.
We again wish to thank The Soneva SLOW LIFE Trust for providing the funding for this project.
