Work

Volunteers will help on several aspects of the event logistics: - assembly of sports fields and/or facilities for the 2025 National Games; - dismantling of sports fields and/or installations for the 2025 National Games. - building and putting up the decorations, transport and unloading of material, waste management. Volunteers will work with several teams of the organisation before and after the Games. During the 3 days of competitions, volunteers will provide guidance to athletes for one of the disciplines of the competition: a precision ball sport, related to bowls and "pétanque" called Bocce.

Partner

Every year, Special Olympics Belgium organises the National Games. In 2025, the Games will be held in Courtrai. More than 3,000 athletes, accompanied by 1,200 coaches, are taking part in the Games in around twenty sports disciplines. Special Olympics Belgium was founded in 1979 and is officially recognized by the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee. It organises National Games every year (alternatively in Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia) and send delegations of Belgian athletes to the Winter and Summer Special Olympics World Games. These competitions are open to any athlete with intellectual disability who regularly practise a sport at his/her own level. More than just a physical and sport training, these activities enhance the social development of the athletes

Location

Hostel with dormitory and shower.

Accomodation

Flexhotel / Hostel

Meeting point

Courtrai (also named Kortrijk) train station / 8,STATIONSPLEIN. 8500, KORTRIJK

Work

During this camp, participants can share their love for (and learn more about) global and amp; local environmental issues, as well as photography. If you are interested in topics such as climate change, waste management, animal protection and sustainability, and you also love taking photographs, making videos or want to develop your photography skills, then this project is for youWhile developing artistic and technical photography skills, you will be focusing on environmental and sustainability issues through non-formal activities such as workshops, discussions, presentations and visits facilitated by SEEDS. One of our aims is to help create more environmentally aware consumers and amp; travellersYou will visit local projects on environment and conservation. These may include hands-on activities or guided visits. Some examples include outdoor cleanup tasks, a geothermal power plant, a local fauna and/or flora exhibition or an outdoor Icelandic culture museum. Some of these activities are dependent on conditions such as weather, as well as availability or restrictions of our partner organisations.You will also have time to put the theory about photography into practice, walking around and exploring the city. At the end of the camp, the best photographs from each participant are selected for an online exhibition on SEEDS social media. Participants should bring their own digital cameras, lenses, tripods and laptops if possible.

Partner

SEEDS programme combines learning, sharing, hands-on activities, getting to know Iceland, its culture, having fun, exploring the city and its attractions, as stunning natural attractions in possible excursions. Participants should prepare to share environmental issues from their countries and should be ready to spend time outdoors walking medium distances during activities and sightseeing. Note this project is a learning/sharing camp and not a standard workcamp. This project has a smaller volunteer work part and puts a bigger emphasis on the personal learning process than on the community impact.

Location

ReykjavEk is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The worlds northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. ReykjavEk is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded by beautiful nature.One of the two options below is also included in this camp as a hands-on volunteering activity day:1. A day trip to the Hot River area, combined with a cleanup or work with an environmental project in the area, or2. A day trip to the Reykjanes peninsula, combined with a coastal cleanup in the area.Some excursions (e.g. to the Golden Circle and/or South Shore) can be arranged at discount fares if there is free time after the camp workshops/sessions.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants will stay in a house in ReykjavEk. The facilities are basic with a kitchen, showers, and a washing machine. Everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. Participants will sleep in shared rooms or dormitories.Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.

Requirements

LANGUAGE: English will be the language in the camp; intermediate conversational skills are needed.

Meeting point

The Meeting time will be at 18:00 (6:00 pm) on May 26 at SEEDS office in ReykjavEk. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later or delayed flights) will be sent information on how to reach the camp on their own.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 400 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day) and the Hot River Hike or trip to the Reykjanes peninsula.The Meeting time will be at 18:00 (6:00 pm) on May 26 at SEEDS office in ReykjavEk. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later or delayed flights) will be sent information on how to reach the camp on their own.

Work

SEEDS volunteers will take on a variety of activities, depending on weather conditions and the needs of our partners including working in the forestry section and vegetable greenhouses in the EcoVillage, as well as participating in a nationwide project to raise awareness of ocean pollution, plastic waste, and engage the group in hands-on cleanup efforts in the area, allowing volunteers to make a direct impactThe camp is based at Alviora, which offers a range of activities to connect people with nature, such as community gardens, wildlife workshops, school programs, and hikes. As part of the camp, volunteers help maintain the center through tasks like gardening, renovating the house and other projects such as removing old fences to protect wildlife, marking walking paths, and potentially do forestry work like trimming or planting trees.This camp combines learning, sharing, hands-on work and fun. No previous experience is needed. Volunteers should be prepared to share environmental issues from their home countries and be ready to spend time outdoors. Volunteers should be ready to adapt and be flexible with the work and free-time schedule. Depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the activities as planned.

Partner

PROJECT: This camp is part of SEEDS ongoing efforts to raise awareness, promote engagement in environmental issues and to support sustainability, organic and permaculture farming, social inclusion, education and hands-on actions in the field. Volunteers will gain insights into local and global challenges through non-formal educational activities such as hands-on work, visits, discussions, and workshops. SEEDS volunteers have the opportunity to participate in different projects in collaboration with Landvernd (the Icelandic Environmental Organization), the EcoVillage at Solheimar, the Icelandic Ministry for Environment and Natural Resources, Umhverfisstofnun (the Icelandic Environmental Agency) and Blai Herinn (the Blue Army).

Location

LOCATION: The accommodation is located an hour drive south-east from Reykjavik. The house serves as an environmental-educational centre and sits under Ingolfsfjall, The Mountain of Ingolfur, with a view of Eyjafjallajokull where the volcanic eruptions began in March and April 2010. The place is registered as natural Icelandic heritage; the nature, vegetation and birdlife is rich in variety and quantity. The volunteers can enjoy outdoor activities in a peaceful and beautiful location with a small stream and a pond nearby. Hiking trails with maps about cultural heritage can be found throughout the area, which is a popular attraction among both foreign and local visitors. The nearest town, Selfoss, only 10 minutes-drive away, with 6500 inhabitants, is a centre of commerce and small industries where you find a geothermal swimming pool, shops, museums, cafes and bars.

Accomodation

ACCOMMODATION: SEEDS volunteers stay in an old farm which has been transformed into an environmental education centre. The facilities are basic with an equipped kitchen, dining and living room, bathroom, shower and a washing machine. Volunteers sleep in shared rooms, with up to 6 people per room. Please bring your own sleeping bag and towel.Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.

Requirements

LANGUAGE: English will be the language in the camp; intermediate conversational skills are needed.

Meeting point

Meeting time is at 16:00 (4:00 pm) on May 26 at the SEEDS Office in Reykjavik.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 350 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes accommodation, food and one trip to the Hot River area in Reykjadalur. The fee does not include the transportation from Reykjavik to the camp and back, which costs EUR 30 one way or EUR 60 for both ways.

Work

PHASE ONE: PREPARATION During this phase, the festival is taking form, as we build it up from the ground, starting from the basics as tents and practical stuff, and finishing off with the small final details. Every year we come up with new ideas and plans, we need to decorate the whole area, and that includes building graffiti walls, painting signs, and placing items around the festival. There will of course be a lot of time in the beginning to get to know each other. We would really value it if volunteers can help us with other creative ideas. PHASE TWO: THE FESTIVAL This phase is the most stressful but also the most fun! In this phase of the festival, we invite all our beautiful guests to the festival we created in the last couple of days. There will be shifts for every volunteer in different locations, such as the entrance, festival area, cleaning toilets, and other jobs. There will of course be space for a lot of fun and just vibing. PHASE THREE: CLEANING This phase starts already Sunday morning when the guests begin to return home, as we pack everything down. This mostly takes us all of Sunday, so there will be time to pack up and say goodbye on Monday. FREETIME Since the camp is so short there will be no days off. The closer we get to the start of the festival there would be more to do. Working hours from Tuesday till Thursday will be from 10:00 in the morning till 20:00. Friday and Saturday there will only be a few shifts we have to cover, and the rest is time off, where you can meet Danish people and experience our festival.

Partner

Gnist Festival is a music and art festival created by and for young people based outside any major city. It's a two-day festival with a lot of music acts, art exhibitions, and other major activities such as community dance, techno yoga, talks, short films, and many more. We value the spirit of the youth, culture, and all different kinds of art and music. Please take a look at our Instagram to see what we do: https://www.instagram.com/gnistfestival/

Location

The area is close to the sea, and it is a bit out in the countryside. The area is an old military missile launcher site, but it’s empty except for two garages we use. The event is at the end of May, and therefore it can be good to bring some nice fleeces and cozy clothing when you’re going to be outside all day!

Accomodation

Get ready for the full festival experience! Sleeping + bathroom facilities: The festival has a sleeping area, where during the actual festival days, the guests and the volunteers will sleep in tents. We will also sleep in that area on the days leading up to the festival days. We can provide tents for you. You just need to bring sleeping bags and an air mattress or similar. Let us know if you need anything, we can maybe lend you it. We will have a trailer bathroom available for you. Meals + kitchen facilities: You’ll have access to a trailer bathroom to freshen up after a day of action. Every day, our amazing local chef Jens will serve one hot, delicious meal to keep you going. For the rest, we’ll keep it simple with DIY toasts and sandwiches—quick, easy, and perfect for on-the-go volunteers! Once the festival kicks off, the food scene explodes with awesome food stands and big community meals, so you’ll never go hungry!

Requirements

English will be the only language spoken. All participants must be willing to speak English, even though they are from the same country or have trouble with the English language. Try your best! It is very important for us, to get volunteers that are creative, and who can take initiative. We are looking for volunteers who are independent and will contribute to the project with innovative ideas.

Meeting point

Meeting Point and Time: Store Heddinge St. May 27th between 13:00-15:00. Arrival at Copenhagen Airport: To make it to your meeting point in time, your flight must arrive no later than 12:00 on the first camp day. From the airport, you take a train to Copenhagen Central St. From there you can take a train to Køge St. where there is a local train that goes to Store Heddinge St. This is where we will pick you up. The total travel time from the airport to the meeting point will be approximately 2 hours and cost around 20 €. Just let us know if anything happens so we can help you out. Further details on travel arrangements and purchasing of train/bus tickets will be provided in your infosheet after acceptance. If you are not able to make it in time to the meeting point, please consider arriving one day early and booking a hostel.

Work

As a volunteer at the Aalborg City Cup, you will play an essential role in making one of Northern Europe’s largest youth football tournaments a success. Each year, around 300 teams and 8,000–10,000 visitors come from across Europe to participate in and watch the games. To ensure the event runs smoothly, volunteers will help in various areas, including event setup, food service, information support, and venue maintenance. Your tasks will change throughout the day, keeping things dynamic and engaging! On the first day, you’ll sit down with the host to create a work plan and choose the assignments that interest you most—so be sure to read about the different tasks in advance. That way, you can hit the ground running and make the most of your experience! Event Area Setup Before the tournament starts, volunteers will help prepare the event area. This includes marking and setting up the 21 football fields, arranging seating areas, and making sure that everything is in place for the opening of the tournament. Volunteers may also assist with setting up banners, signs, and equipment needed for the matches and fan areas. You can also assist in one of the many food trucks on the grounds. This task is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind some physical work. Work hours: 10:00 – 18:00 Food Hall Assistance With thousands of players, coaches, and visitors attending, the food hall is a crucial part of the tournament. Volunteers will help serve breakfast and dinner to the participants, ensuring meals are distributed smoothly. This role involves organizing food trays, keeping the dining area clean, and assisting guests who have dietary restrictions or special requests. It’s a great opportunity to meet people from different countries while contributing to the overall hospitality of the event. Work hours: 06:00 – 22:30, which is divided between breakfast serving from 06:00-10:30 and dinner serving from 16:00-20:00 Information Center Support The information center is the heart of the event’s organization, where teams and guests can come for assistance. Volunteers will be responsible for checking in teams upon arrival, handing out tournament schedules, answering general questions, and helping lost guests find their way around. This role requires good communication skills and a friendly attitude, as volunteers will interact with international visitors and ensure they have a great experience at the tournament. Work hours: 17:00 – 22:00 (on Wednesday) 09:00-22:00 (on Thursday, Friday and Saturday). Cleaning & Maintenance To keep the event area welcoming for players and visitors, volunteers will help with regular cleaning and waste management throughout the tournament. This includes collecting trash, ensuring restrooms and common areas are clean, and keeping the playing fields tidy. This task is crucial in maintaining a professional and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone attending the Aalborg City Cup. Work hours: Varies based on need

Partner

Aalborg City Cup was first held in 2004 and has since grown into a large international tournament with around 300 teams each year, featuring boys and girls aged 9 to 18. The tournament takes place on Aalborg Freja’s 21 fields, with matches running from 8 AM to 8 PM. It is always held during the Ascension Day holiday, which next year will be from May 9 to May 11. Every year, we welcome between 8,000 and 10,000 visitors from across Europe. In the upcoming edition, we expect teams from Norway, Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Poland, the Faroe Islands, Lithuania, and, of course, Denmark. Each year, we have between 1,000 and 1,500 volunteers who help with various tasks, including: - Cleaning the venue - Serving breakfast and dinner - Selling food at our stalls - Staffing the information center, welcoming guests

Location

Aalborg is Denmark’s fourth-largest city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and beautiful waterfront along the Limfjord. The city offers a mix of modern attractions and historical landmarks, such as: - Aalborg Tower – A panoramic view of the city - Utzon Center – Designed by the architect of the Sydney Opera House - Aalborg Zoo – A popular spot for visitors - Jomfru Ane Gade – Denmark’s longest bar street, famous for nightlife Aalborg is also home to various parks, museums, and a lively student community, making it a great place to explore during leisure time. Since the camp is short, there won’t be a full free day off, but there will be some free time to relax and enjoy the experience. Volunteers are expected to work a minimum of six hours per day, ensuring that we make the most of our time together while still having moments to unwind.

Accomodation

Sleeping + bathroom facilities: The exact accommodation is not yet confirmed, but volunteers will either stay at a local school or a community house. If the group stays at a local school, the host will provide mattresses and sleeping bags, and there will be access to a bath and toilet. If the group stays at a community house, the host will also provide mattresses and sleeping bags. The bath and toilet will be located just across the street, and there will be a kitchen available for making snacks. Meals + kitchen facilities: All meals will be provided through a small token system, which can be used at food trucks. In some cases, meals will be shared with other staff, creating a great opportunity to connect over food.

Meeting point

Meeting point and Time: Meeting Point: Vestre Fjordvej 15, 9000 Aalborg on May 27th at 12:00. It is important that you do not arrive after 15:00, as there will be no one available to receive you. If you plan to arrive the day before, we might be able to accommodate you before 15:00 on May 26th, but this is not guaranteed. Please inform us in advance if this option works better for you, and we will see what we can do. Departure: The camp ends on June 2, 2025, with departure set for 14:00. AIR TRAVEL Arrival at Aalborg Airport: To reach the meeting point on time, your flight must arrive no later than 11:00 on the first camp day. From the airport, take an RE train to Aalborg Vestby St., then transfer to Bus 2 and get off at Vestre Fjordvej. From there, it is a five-minute walk to the meeting point. The total travel cost is approximately 5€. Arrival at Copenhagen Airport: Your flight must land no later than 8:00 on the first camp day, which means you will reach the meeting point after 12:00 but before 15:00. From the airport, take a direct RE train to Aalborg Vestby St., then transfer to Bus 2, getting off at Vestre Fjordvej. The final walk to the meeting point takes around five minutes, and the total travel cost is approximately 70€. Further details on travel arrangements, including how to purchase train and bus tickets, will be provided in your info sheet after acceptance. If you are unable to arrive at the meeting point on time, please consider arriving a day early and booking a hostel. Further details on travel arrangements and purchasing of train/bus tickets will be provided in your info sheet after acceptance. If you are not able to make it in time to the meeting point, please consider arriving one day early and booking a hostel.

Work

Immerse yourself in the world of the BriKaBrak festival by helping to prepare the site. You'll start by erecting a majestic circus tent, the heart of the event. Then, give free rein to your creativity by decorating the site to give it the vibrant colours of the festival. On the weekend of 7 and 8 June, get into the collective spirit by helping the volunteers to create some unforgettable moments of conviviality. Together, let's create a festive atmosphere and share in the magic of these two unique days!

Partner

Le Bugue is a picturesque little town in the heart of Périgord Noir, in the Dordogne department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Bordered by the peaceful waters of the Vézère, it is nestled in an enchanting natural setting, surrounded by wooded hills and landscapes typical of this region rich in history. The town has been home to the Point-Org Association and its BriKaBrak festival for over 20 years now, an eclectic and friendly cultural event held every year around the Whitsun weekend. BriKaBrak stands out for its multi-disciplinary programme, combining street arts, live performances, music, theatre and entertainment for all ages. Its festive and accessible spirit makes it a not-to-be-missed event for locals and visitors in search of originality. This festival embodies the spirit of sharing and cultural discovery, bringing generations together around captivating performances and a unique moment of conviviality in the Dordogne. You'll be helping the association and its volunteers to prepare the festival. You'll discover the local people's sense of welcome and their energy to make it a time of joy and celebration. You'll also discover a region rich in history as you work with the other volunteers and the organisers to organise your programme of activities.

Location

Le Bugue (24260) is in the Périgord Noir region, close to Les Eyzies and the village of Limeuil, listed as one of the most beautiful in France. Site visits, nature activities, you will build your own entertainment program with the animators and the other participants. We favor a discovery of the territory and these actors over consumption activities.

Accomodation

You'll be staying at the Bournat Campsite next to the festival site.You'll be sleeping in a tent, with convenient access to the sanitary facilities nearby. Trekking tents and foam mattresses will be provided. The will be prepared and eaten collectively in the site's in the site's kitchen and village hall. Most of the time, you'll enjoy your meals in the company of the volunteers, reinforcing the warm and collaborative spirit that the magic of this festival. Everyone will be able to get their hands dirty and share their favourite recipes. So don't forget to bring your gourmet ideas!

Meeting point

The meeting point is Le Bugue station. You should get there on 28/05 between 5pm and 8pm. The nearest international airport is Bordeaux-Mérignac and the train station where we will pick you up is in Le Bugue. There is a shuttle bus from Bordeaux airport to Gare Saint-Jean in Bordeaux. It takes about 3 hours by train from Bordeaux to Le Bugue, so make sure you arrive at the airport early in the morning or the day before your appointment. If you arrive the day before, you will need to arrange your own accommodation. Departure is on the last day between 9am and 12pm maximum.

Work

You help is needed to continue building up the farm, including construction/ renovating of a tiny house for multifunctional using, made from clay. wood, etc... Previous workcamps in 2023 and 2024 contributed to this project, and now you will have the chance to help complete it. Another manual labour will be renovating other farm facilities. Also, the farm needs a small roundabout that is stable to drive on during wet times. In August, every garden is in the fullness of its harvest season! Tomatoes sweetened by the sun, courgettes and cucumbers growing at a fast speed and need hard-working hands and hungry mouths. But the weeds don't stop growing either. That's why there will be the opportunity to help in the daily business of Market gardening, such as harvesting, weeding, planting seeds and caring for small plants in the nursery! In other words, there will not only be the opportunity to experience multifaceted gardening firsthand, but also to master manual and physical work in a team. So, if you have extra energy, you are more than welcome! In our work, we follow the principle of “Market Garden”: Here is what it looks like: on the smallest possible area, as many crops as possible are cultivated without the use of groundwater-damaging fertiliser, only with the help of compost. The most important idea here is recycling, in order to work with as little labour, pesticides and land as possible. Learning gardening skills, the cycle concept and environmental aspects in agriculture are therefore important learning elements during the work camp. Permaculture and biodynamic principles can be experienced here. The care and feeding of chickens and sheep can also be learned in practice. Another important part is building with natural materials. We plan to implement old craft techniques that were used to build houses and infrastructure without modern technology yet were very energy efficient.

Partner

Michels Kleinsthof is working towards the utopia of a sustainable, resilient, and grandchild-friendly agriculture becoming reality. More than 50 different crops are grown on one hectare using the “Market Gardening” principle. We are part of the movement “Community based agriculture” (in Germany, this is called “Solidarity Farming — Solidarische Landwirtschaft”). This means members are involved in the work on a weekly basis in order to bring sustainable food production to the people. School classes are allowed to experience agriculture firsthand and enjoy looking after chicken, sheep and bees. There is a great variety of tasks in our diverse garden! Diversity makes us independent of the agricultural industries. It also benefits our fellow creatures of all kinds. We deliver a large portion of our products to our 90 Solidarity Farming members, while another part is sold at the market in the picturesque nearby town of Staufen. However, Michel's micro-farm sees itself not only as a food producer, but also as a place of learning and a nature conservation project! Agriculture is the number one cause of species extinction worldwide and is responsible for 25% of climate-damaging greenhouse gas emissions. On one of the most fertile soils in Germany, nestled in a beautiful spot between the Vosges and the Black Forest, the micro-farm sets a counterexample to the monocultures of the rest of the Rhine Valley.

Location

Michels Kleinsthof is located between the Black Forest and the Vosges in the border triangle in one of the most beautiful regions of Germany. A nearby quarry pond can be easily reached after work with bicycles provided by the farm and the young, alternative and beautiful student city of Freiburg is also less than 10 minutes away by train. The farm itself is located in a small village called Tunsel, but the entire region is bursting with nature and cultural tourism opportunities. If you are travelling by plane, we would very much appreciate it if you could extend your stay in Central Europe even further, so as not to use climate-damaging mobility just for our project.

Accomodation

Most of the organic seasonal food comes directly from the field to your plate. Everything else that is needed will be purchased. The diet will be predominantly vegetarian. Cooking will take place together in the outdoor kitchen and there will also be the possibility to cook a "classic" dish from your country of origin. Next to the kitchen, there is also a fireplace for sitting together in the evening, so your musical instruments are most welcome! We will also use the clay oven for pizza at least once. As far as sleeping is concerned, we will either set up a communal tent directly on the field or provide some beds in construction trailers. A small hutch will serve as our shower, a composting toilet is already part of the sanitary facilities in the field. Please be ready to live in very basic conditions; you will live outdoors most of the time and close to nature. The work can be physically demanding.

Requirements

Please bring a sleeping bag, swimwear and preferably sturdy shoes for working in the garden. Please note that you will get dirty in the garden, so clothes that can get dirty and are old are recommended. Remember that the sunshine could be strong, and you should bring suitable headgear and sufficient sun protection. Long-sleeved, thin clothing will also work for this. The living conditions will be very simple, so please be prepared. The work can be physically demanding. Note that it is not recommended to attend if you are allergic to weed.

Meeting point

Nearest airports: Basel, Stuttgart Note: If you arrive at Basel airport, check whether it is free to travel through Switzerland, as you may need an additional visa there (for non-EU countries). If not, choose an airport in Germany.

Notes:

Please bring a sleeping bag, swimwear and preferably sturdy shoes for working in the garden. Please note that you will get dirty in the garden, so clothes that can get dirty and are old are recommended. Remember that the sunshine could be strong, and you should bring suitable headgear and sufficient sun protection. Long-sleeved, thin clothing will also work for this. The living conditions will be very simple, so please be prepared. The work can be physically demanding. Note that it is not recommended to attend if you are allergic to weed.

Work

Lepaniidi Farm has currently about 100 sheep for producing meet and wool, over 40 goats, 20 of whom are for milk and goat cheese production. Volunteers will be helping grazing, feeding, milking the goats, processing the milk, but also picking berries and vegetables. So, in the mornings there will be goats milking, at days - picking the berries and fruits (strawberries, raspberries and blackcurrant) and making a jam/juice or there will be work in vegetable garden, removing weeds, picking vegetables, etc. Towards end of summer volunteers will be mainly picking up and sorting vegetables (potatoes, carrots, beetroots), milking goats and making cheese. Participants will have a great chance to get familiar with various farm jobs and even to learn how to make goat cheese Inside of the house it would be great to give some hand cooking and cleaning around. The working day will be 6-7 hours, 5-6 days a week (NB: milking is every day). Work will be supervised by local hosts with whom volunteers will stay sharing work and leisure as a family.

Partner

According to the Nordic sagas Hiiumaa emerged from the Baltic Sea as a small islet more than 10 000 years ago. The island of Hiiumaa was first mentioned in historical documents as a deserted island called Dageida in 1228. The first inhabitants settled down at the end of the 13th century. Nowadays Hiiumaa is the second biggest island of Estonia with the area of 965 sq. km and the population around 9 000. It has many historical and nature sights, and there are kind people known for their hospitality and good sense of humor. The island is referred as a remote area of Europe, so EstYES feels particularly proud developing international voluntary projects for over 20 years there. For years EstYES has been cooperating with farms all over Estonia for solidarity and practical support to local people who work in agricultural sector keeping traditional life style and developing new eco-farming despite of all difficulties. Lepaniidi Farm on Hiiumaa Island is one of such projects. This is an organic farm promoting sustainable lifestyle, and camp is proposed for volunteers who appreciate and share its values, want to learn more about it and to help hard working people.NB It is possible to adapt the arrival date to your availability.

Location

LocationHiiumaa Island, Kaina parish, Ristivalja village, Lepaniidi farm. Hiiumaa Island is in the west of Estonia, 140 km from Tallinn. More information on www.hiiumaa.ee or www.visitestonia.com Leisure timeThere are lot of natural picturesque sights in the area. Sea cost is 7km away and there is a possibility to take the bicycles to go swimming. It is possible to visit other parts of Hiiumaa Island on weekend. Hiiumaa offers a lot of events on weekends in summer. Hosts plan to arrange some tours around the island. This camp is absolutely suitable for people who enjoy nature and interested in traditional ways of rural living.

Accomodation

The accommodation conditions at the farm is simple but decent - in old sauna house or caravan but on beds. Please bring your sleeping bag. Toilets and showers are available in the main house; there is also traditional Estonian sauna in the farm. There is a kitchen with necessary equipment for cooking, which volunteers may use freely i just like at home. Usually volunteers will have breakfasts and lunch together with farmers cooked and served by the hosts, but you always can help with cooking. Dinners will be prepared by volunteers.

Requirements

Special requirementsMotivation letter is required. You have to be ready to adapt to the simple conditions of the common life in the country side of Estonia and be willing to do farm work, which can be hard sometimes. Not suitable for lactose allergic participants since host offers a lot of dairy products. The host eats a lot of meat products too, but volunteers can always cook for themselves. Smoking and drinking alcohol is not allowed in this camp. Participation feeWe ask participants to contribute 60 Euros towards the costs of the general administration. This fee has to be paid by bank transfer before the beginning of the stay. If you cannot make it, ask your sending organization for solution.

Meeting point

TerminalAirport, harbour, bus station in Tallinn. From the airport buses nr 2and 15 going to the city centre stops by the Tallinn Bus Station (Bussijaam). From there two times per day buses take you straight to Hiiumaa (including ferry transportation from the mainland). Timetables are available online at www.tpilet.ee and www.luxexpress.eu NB It is possible to adapt the arrival date to your availability.

Work

From Spring to Autumn our electronic Babboe coffee bike roams around providing people free of charge refreshments, food and a place to chat and connect with local people. The food is surplus food from wholesalers prepared by Leinikki. During summer they also have a children s summer camp where volunteers play games and do crafts with children aged 7-11 years old. The volunteers will contribute to both of these projects while having an exciting opportunity to be a part of our community. They will get to be part of the camp, play football and other games, and spend time outside with the children. The volunteers will also be riding the electronic coffee bike so they can have a nice chat with people and provide them refreshments.

Partner

Vantaan Jarjestorinki is an organization that supports and connects associations in Vantaa. It serves as a network for local groups and works to improve the conditions for associations by organizing networking meetings, training sessions, and offering free meeting spaces at the Leinikki Civic Activity Center in Simonkyla. They also organize free weekly community events, ranging from a crafts club, community cafe, Men s group, Senior cafe, children s afternoon club, and similar activities to people living in the area.

Location

Simonkyla is close to Tikkurila in Vantaa, adjacent to Helsinki, renowned for its cultural attractions and recreational facilities. Nature is nearby: a forest with gym equipment is right around the corner and there is a national park with a lake for swimming, and kayaking. Volunteers can borrow bicycles for the duration of the camp in order to explore the area.

Accomodation

The volunteers will sleep in double rooms in Leinikki. The accommodation also has a common area with sofas as well as toilets and showers. There is a large kitchen area where the volunteers can prepare food.

Requirements

The volunteers need travel insurance for the duration of their stay. The volunteers need to know how to ride a bicycle. A criminal record extract is required.

Meeting point

Helsinki - Vantaa airport is very near to the camp location. Helsinki can be also reached by ferry.

Work

Alliksaare Farm s main direction is horse breeding. At the moment there are around 150 horses on the farm. The work can be diverse: it is to take care and maintain the pastures located by the sea - clearing around the pastures, building or removing fences, repairing fences, cleaning the stable. Another work is cleaning the coast nearby the farm from rubbish brought by storms. There can be some work for preparing food for horses for a winter time. However the major and the most important one is work with horses directly - taking care and training them. There are horses of any age but mostly young ones, so depending on your experience and willingness to learn more, it is possible to practice taking care of and training young horses. For example socializing and training foals, halter train yearlings and saddle and/or carriage train young horses. The work will be mainly outdoors. Working time is 6-7 hours a day. Work will be done under some supervision and guidance of the local host but mostly independently.

Partner

Hiiumaa, according to the Nordic sagas, emerged from the Baltic Sea as a small islet more than 10 000 years ago. The island of Hiiumaa was first mentioned in historical documents as a deserted island called Dageida in 1228. The first inhabitants settled down at the end of the 13th century. Nowadays, Hiiumaa is the second biggest island of Estonia with an area of 965 sq. km and a population of around 9 000. It has many historical and nature sights, and there are kind people known for their hospitality and good sense of humor. The island is referred to as a remote area of Europe, and EstYES feels particularly proud developing international voluntary projects for over twenty years there. EstYES has been cooperating with eco-farms all over Estonia for solidarity and practical support to local people who work in the agricultural sector keeping traditional lifestyle and developing new eco-farming despite all difficulties. Alliksaare Farm on Hiiumaa Island is one of such projects. This is an organic farm promoting sustainable lifestyle, and this camp is proposed for volunteers who appreciate and share its values, want to learn more about it and to help hard working people. Alliksaare Farm breeds an endangered breed of horses called Estonian Native horse. This is their main focus. Also Alliksaare Farm has an important task taking care of coastal meadows which are international birds migration area under protection of NATURA Program. Video of past camp https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEAc2Sch6f8

Location

LocationAlliksaare farm is located in Nurste Kula, Emmaste parish, Hiiumaa island. Hiiumaa is situated in the western part of Estonia, 130km from Tallinn. More information available on the following websites: www.emmaste.ee, www.hiiumaa.ee, www.visitestonia.com TerminalAirport, harbour, bus station in Tallinn. From Tallinn airport plane to Hiiumaa leaves twice a day https://eestilennud.ee. Or you get there by bus. For this take bus nr 2 or 15 going to the city centre. Buses stop at Tallinn Bus Station (Bussijaam). From there buses go to Hiiumaa two times per day taking you straight there (including ferry transportation from the mainland). Timetables are available online at www.tpilet.ee (bus from Tallinn to Hiiumaa), https://transport.tallinn.ee/ (transport in Tallinn).Leisure timeThere are a lot of natural picturesque sights on the island as well as good possibilities for swimming in the sea or hiking in the forest. It is planned to visit other parts of Hiiumaa Island on the week-end. Hiiumaa offers a lot of various cultural events in summer time and you will have the possibility to join them. In spring and autumn you can enjoy birds watching as their migration route goes over island. This camp is perfect for people who enjoy being close to the nature and are interested in traditional way of rural living.

Accomodation

The accommodation conditions are very simple - in caravans, however beds are provided. Please bring your sleeping bag. Toilets and showers are available on site. There is a kitchen with all necessary equipment for cooking. Ingredients for food will be provided, but you need to cook by yourselves. We ask you to keep the living and common areas clean (washing dishes, cleaning the floors, etc).

Requirements

Special requirementsYou have to be open-minded and ready to adapt to the simple conditions of the common life in Estonian countryside. Be ready for independent work staying without permanent supervision. Please consider that the work is mainly farm work which can be hard at some time. It is very important that you already have some substantial experience with horses and be able to interact and train them. Please send a motivation letter explaining it. It can be helpful if you have some technical skills: repair machines, building, use chainsaws, etc. Driving license is an advantage. Smoking and drinking alcohol are not permitted on the farm. Participation feeWe ask participants to contribute a single fee of 60 Euro towards the costs of general administration. Fee does not depend on the duration of your stay. This fee has to be paid by bank transfer before the beginning of the camp to the bank account. If you cannot make bank transfer please contact your sending organization for solution.

Meeting point

TBC