057 / Sidorejo, Madiun, East Java
Mr. Irwan is a seasonal worker; sometimes he works as a construction worker, and other times as a farmer. His job as a construction worker has brought him to many places around Indonesia and he fell in love with books. He does believe that books can help widen the horizon and change the mindset toward better future.
A few years ago he set up a library in his own house. Currently the library is open 24 hours a day, so anybody can come anytime. Around 40 elementary school pupils come to read there every day. In addition to reading activity, Mr. Irwan also provides a free computer course, workshop on traditional games and teaches school subjects to these kids. He has started planting some trees around his house to show his neighbours an example what can be done for the environment.
The major problem that bothers the villagers is the fact that it is dangerous to swim in the local river because of the pollution caused by illegal mining.
This Eco-Education Center is entirely funded by Yongkie Wiyogo through green-books.org’s crowdfunding campaign at startsomegood.com.