Henry Martyn Institute: International Centre For Research, Interfaith Relations & Reconciliation

Background
Did you ever wish for a finishing school that important heads of nations could attend? One that taught them the basics of humanity and religious tolerance?

The Henry Martyn Institute has been promoting reconciliation between people of different faiths and cultures since 1969. Their academic and community-based programs are structured to improve relations between people of different religions so as to bring about positive change in divided communities.

Activities
The HMI is an organization that imparts peace skills through practical models of dialogue, mediation and inter-religious encounter. Some of their unique academic programs are: a PG Diploma in Islamic Studies and Interfaith Relations, a Ph. D. in Islam in Asia, a Masters in Theology, and language instruction courses in Arabic, Persian and Urdu. Their library houses nearly 20,000 volumes focusing on Islamic studies, religion, women's studies, peace-building and inter-faith issues.

HMI's grassroot programs include community development, conflict resolution programs and a reconciliation expansion project. The expansion project aims at collaborating with like-minded NGOs to take their programs to other regions in the country.

Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers can work on their community development projects which involve conducting skill-training - such as tailoring, mehendi classes etc. for women and youth in identified areas - and assist in conflict resolution as well (once you have gone through training, of course).

Cash donations can be made in favor of "Director, Henry Martin Institute". A large number of their students come down from foreign countries - posing as perfect ambassadors for inter-faith harmony and collaboration.