Pilane near Galle/Sri Lanka, May 2007 – Finally, the first building of the new training center in Pilane is completed. To celebrate, a small inauguration ceremony is held. The new WACKER RELIEF FUND center houses offices, classrooms and an exhibition space for exhibiting and selling the students' handicrafts.

"The WACKER RELIEF FUND was the first of four sponsors to commit itself to sponsoring student places at the training center. That's why we decided to name the center after the WACKER RELIEF FUND," explains Michael Kreitmeir, Chairman of the Little Smile Association.

The center aims to build on young people's skills and give them a solid foundation for their future working lives. The exhibition space and adjoining shop gives students the opportunity to sell their handicrafts on site.

Following the land purchase last year, the ground was cleared, a road built and the first building renovated. The biggest initial challenge was how to make best use of the funds. Prices had escalated due to indiscriminate use of funding and inadequate supervision by other organizations.

Little Smile soon overcame these initial difficulties by keeping costs under control and closely supervising work. All work is now contracted out by Sri Lankans authorized by the organization. This year, there are plans to build training facilities and accommodation for students and instructors. At the same time, Little Smile is developing a training plan for traditional trades in Sri Lanka and is looking for suitable instructors. Training is due to begin in 2008.