volontariato internazionale, antirazzismo, pace, diritti
Code:ICJA2412
Where:Sievershausen
Number of volunteers:20
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
The Peace Studies Center is located on the edge of a former battlefield. An exceptionally bloody battle took place here on a Sunday afternoon in july 471 years ago. Analogous to the well-known motto "swords to ploughshares" we redesign this to "battlefields to playing fields". The participants of the work camp will design different elements of this playing field. This means manual work with wood, metal, earth and colour. Anyone who appreciates creative work can work on some piece of art under expert guidance, which is to be developed on the topics of the reconciliation work done by “Community of the Coventry Cross of Nails”, CCN. This is an international Community; a worldwide network of churches, institutions and places which works closely with Coventry Cathedral for peace and reconciliation. In total, there are 50 members across Germany and over 200 worldwide. Coventry was one of the first towns which was destroyed by German Bombers in World War II. For the Community of the Cross of Nails, standing up for peace and reconciliation means to heal the wounds of history, to recognize differences and to value diversity, and to create a culture of peace.
The Peace Studies Center in Sievershausen (Antikriegswerkstatt Sievershausen) was established in the premises of the Sievershausen Lutheran Church community more than 50 years ago. During that time, the Vietnam War escalated. Nowadays there are several buildings, including a guesthouse and the well-known "Anti-War House" with an assembly hall for our events, located in a park-like area along with a church older than 1000 years on the edge of the village. The peace center shows through its diverse program, that peace work has political, historical, educational and cultural aspects. Throughout the year one can visit exhibitions, author readings, lectures and many cultural events. The peace education offers of the seminar area include teaching units, trainings for school classes and church groups on current and historical topics. You will learn some essentials of peace work and receive basic training in non-violent conflict management by professional trainers. Moreover, the respect for Human Rights und circumstances of war and climate change is being discussed. We will visit the memorial in the former Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Volunteers will have the opportunity to meet young people and families in die region, the group will also invite people of the village and region to an “Evening of encounter” (Abend der Begegnung) at the Peace Center.
For the leisure time, the group can use facilities of the seminar house and take part in excursions to Hannover and Braunschweig.
The accommodation for the participants is offered in rooms with four beds each. There are bed sheets available. Food is prepared together in the kitchen of the seminar house.
Code:IJGD 24324
Where:North Rhine-Westphalia, Duisburg 50 km, Kleve 35 km, Dutch Border 10 km
Number of volunteers:8
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
Your summer full of encounters! Together with employees of the Hephata Foundation, who are committed to help people with disabilities, you will carry out two one-week vacation offers of 8 days each. You will be used as an assistant in the running of the activities. This vacation is primarily aimed at people with learning difficulties who have a high degree of independence and a low level of care and who can actively participate in activities. They will be accompanied by professional assistants who have been trained according to their individual needs. At the beginning of each week of the holiday, the offered actions and activities are discussed in accordance with the wishes of the people with disabilities. Joint meals and campfire evenings with communal singing are scheduled during all three weeks. You will be in close contact with the people with disabilities, since they will be living with you on the grounds and you will be spending a lot of time with them. You should therefore be very open to meeting them on-site. Besides cooking and shopping, simple household chores are part of the daily tasks. Important: It is assumed that you keep to agreements and adhere to tasks and times.
local host: /www.hephata.de The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles: Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education. Follow us on Instagram ijgd_workcamps Facebook @ijgd.workcamps
Idyllically situated on the edge of the forest, your accommodation not only offers relaxation for nature lovers, but the major cities in the Ruhr area with a wealth of interesting and attractive cultural and leisure activities are also within easy reach. Excursion destinations in the immediate vicinity include Museum Schloss Moyland or from the Michelshof you can reach the old town of Kevelaer, 3 km away, via the Michelsweg. The Rouenhof farm is also close by (5 minutes by bike), where you are always welcome to have a go at the goats or enjoy life on a canoe trip or a guided tour of the farm. Kervenheim is located directly on the "Niederrhein-Route". You can explore the surrounding area by bike (Lower Rhine = Fiets), perhaps take a trip to neighboring Holland? The amusement park in Kalkar or "Irrland" in Twisteden are popular excursion destinations. camp location: North Rhine-Westphalia, Duisburg 50 km, Kleve 35 km, Dutch Border 10 km
You cook together. Money for the food shopping is provided to you. Vegetarian or vegan meals are possible. Please indicate any allergies when registering. Michaelshof, group house with multi-bed rooms in Kevelaer. The Michelshof is a historic farmhouse dating back to 1880, situated in a beautiful secluded location at the end of a long oak avenue surrounded by meadows and fields. The Michelshof has 2 floors and a total of approx. 400 square meters of living space. On each floor there is a kitchen-living room of around 80 square meters. The house has 11 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, one of which is barrier-free, a separate WC and a utility room with washing machine and dryer. A terrace and barbecue facilities are available in the large garden.
In order to participate in this camp, you need to be comfortable around people with disabilities and not afraid of coming into contact with them. These are fundamental requirements for this project. Participants who love a cosy communal lifestyle, enjoy making music, maybe even play an instrument themselves (e.g. guitar), sing and enjoy cooking are particularly welcome to join us. You also need to be able to swim. Since there is a different offer of activity on every day, your working hours could total up to 8 hours a day, plus the communal lunch break. In order to compensate for this, one day of the week will be an extra ‘free’ day, so that you will only be working 4 days per week. The working week and days off are distributed among the participants in consultation. There is limited space for privacy in this camp.
follows later We provide more information with the specific infosheet after your confirmed registration.
Code:ICJA2413
Where:Giessen
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
Together with the refugees we want to organize common activities, where the women and children are taken into consideration: Playing games, making sports, being creative, in short to have some fun together…. Besides organizing games for the kids and special activities for women and men, there is the option to create some scenes in a puppet theatre. In addition, our goal is to get in contact with the young people in Giessen to raise greater awareness for the refugees and to break the isolation of the refugees. We will prepare contact with students of the local university that are willing to take care of the medical issues of the refugees and to pursue the legal issues of the asylum law. We especially invite volunteers to participate, who can speak Kurdish, Turkish, Arabic or Farsi.
Since many years now we offer this successful workcamp together with the protestant community center "Petrusgemeinde". The international volunteers are invited to the Asylum Centre for two weeks to take part in the daily life of the refugees. In the study part of the camp, we want to inform about the situation of refugees in Germany and Europe, as well as the current developments in the area of Asylum-policies. We want you to get in contact with the residents of the Asylum Centre so that we can learn about their stories, difficulties and perspectives. The Asylum Centres for asylum seekers in Hessen are located at the edge of the city Giessen. There are currently around 2 000 asylum-seekers hosted in former army barracks. The refugees are in Germany because of various reasons, e.g. political, ethnic and religious persecution or poverty. Usually, they stay at the facility for few months until a decision has been made about their application. Sometimes they are sent to other centers or to other “safe countries” where they entered the European Union, or to their countries of origin. Most of the people living in the Asylum Centres in Giessen are from Turkey, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Eritrea, Ukraine and Balkan countries: Young men, women, children and older people. The asylum seekers live in simple conditions and are not allowed to work or leave the district in which they live. Their permission to stay in Germany often is limited and so is their contact with the locals living in the city.
There are plenty of possibilities for leisure time activities: playing football or canoeing as well as possibilities to visit some other cities. (e.g. Marburg, Frankfurt or Heidelberg)
The workcamp will be hosted by a local protestant church which is already involved in working with the refugees. The premises of the church are plentiful and volunteers will have a lot of space for sleeping, cooking, dining, relaxing, and for indoor and outdoor activities.
Please bring sleeping bag, a pillow if needed, towels, camping mat, work clothes, bathing suit, music, your talents and something specific from your country. After registration, we require a self-declaration concerning the children and youth protection. Please send a motivation letter together with your application. The local host requires that all participants are vaccinated against measles, to protect the people in the shelter.
Please bring sleeping bag, a pillow if needed, towels, camping mat, work clothes, bathing suit, music, your talents and something specific from your country. After registration, we require a self-declaration concerning the children and youth protection. Please send a motivation letter together with your application. The local host requires that all participants are vaccinated against measles, to protect the people in the shelter.
Code:NIG10
Where:Lohmen
Number of volunteers:8
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-27
This work camp is for nature lovers, since the work will be mainly outdoors. There is a lot of work around the natural reserve “Upahl-Lenzen”. Since it’s not possible to use common agricultural techniques, volunteers have to do everything manually. Moreover every meadow around has to be cut and the grass have to be put aside. The aim of this project is to help to protect this unique reserve through your contribution. This project will be done in cooperation with the environmental agency of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. We also start a new project of "creating a international herb garden".
This project is organized by NiG e.V., a german non-profit and non-government organization. In this project we work together with the local agency for agriculture and environment.
Lohmen is a village in the middle of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and is surrounded by the nature reserve Upahl-Lenzen. It has about 850 inhabitants but also many possibilities for outdoor activities like a labyrinth, sports grounds and an archeological nature trail. There is a lake in walking distance where you can swim and also much nature to enjoy in general. Leisure time activities: Excursions (swimming, short trips) can be planned.
Volunteers will stay at the building of a former kindergarten. Food (also vegetarian/ vegan) is included, but meals have to be prepared by the volunteers. (we like to do international cooking days, so every nation cooks one typical/traditional meal for everyone) On the last weekend, we arrrange a trip to Rostock (next biggest city, directly at the sea) and stay in our office accomodation. There we have the opportunity, to either go the beach or into clubs and stuff like this :)
Please bring a sleeping bag, working clothes (gloves), a mattress pad (and good motivation :D).
BE CAREFUL! There are two different villages in Germany called "Lohmen". The workcamp will be in that Lohmen between Guestrow and Goldberg in the region Mecklenburg Western Pomerania.
Code:VJF24 2.5
Where:Gedenkstätte und Museum Sachsenhausen Straße der Nationen 22 D-16515 Oranienburg
Number of volunteers:15
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
Project: Development of tool for visitors You will develop a tool for visitors that normally use the guestbook when visiting the memorial. You will discuss alternative options how visitors can be included in the experience they make and express their thoughts instead of the guest book. ________ Study part: The history of Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp and the Soviet Special Camp are the focus of this part of the study. You will learn about the life stories of former prisoners who were interned here from all over Europe. Why were they persecuted? What was their daily life in the camp like and how did they try to survive? Visits to exhibitions, memorials and museums in Oranienburg and Berlin as well as discussions with experts are also part of the program. __________ Work part: Participants will perform maintenance and gardening work on the memorial grounds. No special skills are required for the simple physical work.
The Sachsenhausen Memorial was one of the largest concentration camps in Germany and was built in 1936 near Berlin. More than 200,000 people from all over Europe were imprisoned here by the Nazi SS. The prisoners were forced to perform inhumane labor, and thousands died or were murdered. After the liberation in 1945, the Soviet secret service established Special Camp No.7/No.1 on the site for the internment of former Nazi functionaries and political opponents. Today the memorial is a place of remembrance, learning and research. More information: www.sachsenhausen-sbg.de/en/
Area: Sachsenhausen is a part of Oranienburg, ca. 33 km to the north of Berlin. Sachsenhausen was one of the earliest concentration camps in Germany, built in 1936. For example, German people who were in opposition to Nazi policy, homosexuals, so-called asocials, criminals, Jews, and during the war especially people from occupied countries were imprisoned, forced to work and a lot of them were murdered. Between 1945 and 1950 a part of this area was used as a so-called Special Camp of the Soviet Secret Service Leisure: Volunteers have to be able to ride a bike, as several shorter and longer bike rides are planned. Bicycles are provided, but helmets are not required. In the free time it's possible to go to Berlin or Potsdam. The volunteers will find many forests and lakes to walk, cycle or just relax. However, the free time activities will mainly depend on participants' ideas.
Accomodation: You will be accommodated in a youth hostel. The building is on the grounds of historical Sachsenhausen concentration camp complex and was built in 1938 as the official residence of the Concentration Camp Inspector, 2 km away from the memorial centre. It is not necessary to bring a sleeping bag. Bed sheets and linen will be provided. You will sleep in shared rooms with a lot of space. It is possible to use the washing machine and the dryer for a small fee. More information: https://www.jugendherbergen-berlin-brandenburg.de/en/youth-hostels/sachsenhausen-686/portrait/ Food: In the hostel there is a big kitchen for the group. Please be prepared not only to cook there, but also to clean up afterwards ;) This will be done by the kitchen team of your group. Volunteers have to cook the meals for themselves. Please bring easy recipes from your home country.
Studypart: - You should bring an interest in the history of Germany and Europe in the 1930s and 1940s and commemoration. - You should have a desire to discuss these topics in an international group. Project related: - You should be interested in digital formats. In general: - You should be able to perform simple physical tasks. - A good knowledge of English is a prerequisite for participation. - Since many shorter and longer bike rides are planned, volunteers should also be able to ride a bike. Please be fully vaccinated (2 to 3 shots of one of the following vaccines: BioNtech/Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson&Johnson) or recovered (date of infection must be min. 28 days old and max. 90 days old).
We have a total of three projects at the Sachsenhausen Memorial, with a different additional project: – VJF 2.3 Sachsenhausen #1: Comic Workshop (14. July. - 3. August 2024) – ESC VJF 2.4 Sachsenhausen #2: Relics and storage (16.07.24 – 05.08.24) –VJF 2.5 Sachsenhausen #3: Development of tool for visitors (12.08.24 – 01.09.24)
Code:VJF24 6.4
Where:Kommunalservice Jena Stadtforstverwaltung Vor dem Neutor 7, 07743 Jena
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
In the first week, you will work with local foresters in the wood of Jena. You tasks will include various environmental works, e.g. maintaining footpaths, lookout points and shelters. Your help will be needed for different nature protection projects. Please be prepared for environmental works to help the rangers only outside. In the second week, the volunteers will help the environmental organisation “Fuchsturmgesellschaft” to chop down trees for a better visibility and let a bright landscape appear from the way leading to the tower and maintenance work in the flora-fauna habitat. Your help will be needed in the Education Path; also, huts need renovation or maintenance. This is a camp for nature lovers! Work can be physically challenging at times.
Area: Jena is with about 100.000 inhabitants the 2nd biggest city in Thüringen and is situated on the banks of the river Saale, surrounded by white and grey calcite mountains in the eastern part of Thüringen. Jena is famous for the high-tech Zeiss Optical Instruments, the Schiller University and the Zeiss-Planetarium, which is the oldest continuously operating planetarium in the world. The city of Jena and its surroundings present many good opportunities for recreation and relaxing. Leisure Time: Please notice that Jena city is far away from your accommodation, so better be ready to spend lots of time by yourselves, enjoying games / sports and outdoor activities. We can go hiking and have cycling tours in this beautiful area. We can also make trips to other cities, for example we can travel to Weimar, which is well known as the workplace of the poets Goethe and Schiller. You’ll be able to learn more about history, as we could visit the former concentration camp Buchenwald. The student city of Jena offers many cultural possibilities to explore. Free-time activities will mainly depend on your ideas and wishes.
Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in an isolated hostel on a hill in the Western part of Jena. Your only neighbours will be the woodland animals. All bed linen will be provided. We have the chance to have campfires, play ping-pong and volleyball, to go swimming and so on. A washing machine is available. There will be no internet access in the accommodation. Food: Full board, you will get the possibility to cook traditional meals occasionally. Please be prepared for typical German food. You will have cold breakfast and supper (bread!) and a warm meal for dinner.
Please be fully vaccinated (2 to 3 shots of one of the following vaccines: BioNtech/Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson&Johnson) or recovered (date of infection must be min. 28 days old and max. 90 days old).
Code:IJGD 14034
Where:Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein; right at the Baltic Sea, 10 km to Denmark
Number of volunteers:13
Language:English
Extra-Fee:350 EUR
Age:18-26
Television – Do it yourself! - That's what you can try out in this international media camp. After an introduction to the technology, you will design your own storyline and soon enough shoulder the camera for shooting your own film! Followed by editing your own material in the studio. At the end of the camp you will present your film to the public in a live broadcast! Technology and rooms for this project are kindly provided by the Offene Kanal Flensburg (Flensburg TV), a public, local TV station (www.oksh.de/fl/ – only in German). You will be guided by an experienced media educator and a media volunteeer and can learn a lot about media work with video and television. Previous experience is not required, but would be appreciated. The Flensburger Jugendring, as the responsible organisation of the youth centre DIE EXXE (www.flensburger-jugendring.de - only in German), is your host and will support you with a contact person on site. You can find last year's live broadcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5venIao17Ds You can find a report of the second to last camp here: https://youtu.be/oIgAezpxh7M (0:40 to 4:30 - but only in German).
The Flensburg Youth Ring (Flensburger Jugendring) is the host of the youth centre DIE EXXE (www.flensburger-jugendring.de – only in German) and will try to invite one to three Flensburg youths to participate in your project. The Flensburger Jugendring, founded in 1949, unites youth associations and youth communities active in Flensburg. The purpose of the Flensburg Youth Ring is to promote youth work. As a representation of interests, it takes a stand vis-à-vis public, elected representatives and authorities on issues of youth policy and youth law. The youth centre "Exxe" is an open place used by children and young people aged between eight and eighteen. The staff of the "Exxe" try to create a place of trust, joy, creativity and experimentation. The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles: Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education. Follow us on Instagram ijgd_workcamps Facebook @ijgd.workcamps
Flensburg is Germany's northernmost city and has a lot to offer, such as tourist attractions, a rich cultural program, places for shopping and of course a whole lot of water. At the weekend you can go on trips to the beautiful Baltic Sea beaches, to Hamburg or to Denmark. http://www.flensburger-foerde.de/en/
You will stay in a simple but cosy youth centre with a large outside area. You all sleep together in one room and share a shower. You will cook together. Money for food will be provided. Vegetarian or vegan meals are possible. Please state any intolerances during registration.
Willingness to walk longer distances on foot, because you have to walk every morning 2,5km (30min) to the TV studio (and back in the evening); Interest in filming, engineering and editing; Previous knowledge is not required, but welcome.
at accommodation until 7pm on 17.08.2024 From Hamburg Airport (travel time to the camp 3h20min) take the local train (S-Bahn) S 1 heading in the direction of Wedel oder Hamburg-Blankenese and get off at Hamburg-Altona (travel time 38min). The S1 runs every 10min. From Hamburger Hauptbahnhof you should take the Regional-Express train (RE 7) in the direction of “Flensburg” and travel until the last station “Flensburg” (journey time is around 1:59h). From Flensburg train station to the camp – by foot (around 25 minutes ca. 2km) From the train station you should go straight ahead along Bahnhofstraße. After around 1km you should turn left at the end of the street into Friedrich-Ebert-Straße. You should follow this street for around 1 km (after a few metres the street name changes to “Schützenkuhle” and then “Zur Exe”). After a few hundred metres, you should see the Exe car park on the right hand side. At the end of the car park, there are two buildings on the other side of street. “Die Exxe” is the second building, directly next to the youth hostel. The building is slightly set back and is easily recognisable by its graffiti. More Information about train and bus connections: www.bahn.com.
350 € extra fee for everybody. Please note: There is a special additional Teenage Fee of 100€ for international volunteers who applied under 18 in this camp (they have to pay in total 450€) You will receive more detailed information after confirming your registration with the specific info sheet for your camp.
Code:IJGD 74130
Where:Zeithain, Sachsen
Number of volunteers:10
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
For some years now, volunteer workcamps have been helping with excavation work on site in cooperation with archaeologists. Remains of buildings, roads and paths as well as everyday objects and building and barrier material have already been recovered. We are now planning to build a modern educational trail on the site, which visitors can use to learn about the history of the camp. This requires further important archaeological work, e.g. uncovering parts of the former camp road and the site of a camp kitchen, as well as clearing and cutting free overgrown building sites and paths. The work will be carried out under the expert guidance of at least one archaeologist. The Ehrenhain Zeithain memorial commemorates the at least 25,000 people who were victims of malnutrition and catastrophic conditions in the Wehrmacht prisoner of war camp from 1941 to 1945. As part of the German war of extermination against the Soviet Union, a prisoner of war camp was set up in Zeithain in 1941. Initially, only Soviet soldiers from the Red Army were detained in the camp. At the time, Ukrainian and Russian soldiers fought together in the Red Army. Up to 30,000 of them died due to inhumane living conditions. From February 1943, the camp served as a central military hospital for prisoners of war. During this period, prisoners from other nations also arrived. Italian soldiers represented a large group. The majority of them also died due to insufficient food and poor medical care. The dead were buried in five cemeteries in the municipality of Zeithain. The memorial is located in one of the cemeteries. There is an exhibition and name plaques commemorating the victims of the camp. The area of the POW camp was completely cleared after 1945. The huge 66-hectare site is now part of the Gohrischheide nature reserve and is an uncultivated natural landscape. The aim of this workcamp is to give young people the opportunity to become familiar with archaeological challenges by researching historical heritage, but also to acquire knowledge about forms of remembrance work.
The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education. Follow us on Instagram ijgd_workcamps Facebook @ijgd.workcamps
The camp area and the municipality of Zeithain are located in a rural landscape surrounded by the river Elbe and the meadows. Zeithain is very centrally located in the triangle between the major cities of Berlin, Leipzig and Dresden. All cities can be reached by public transport in around one hour. The nearest town is Riesa, 15 km away. There is also a swimming lake in the immediate vicinity. In Riesa you can go shopping, eat ice cream or sit in the beer garden by the Elbe. You will have many opportunities to organise your free time in a positive and varied way and get to know the surrounding area.
You cook together. Money for the food shopping is provided to you. Vegetarian or vegan meals are possible. Please indicate any allergies when registering.
The distance from the accommodation to the camp is 5 km. Bicycles and a vehicle are available for this purpose. You can explore the area by bike, e.g. along the Elbe cycle path. We will provide bicycles for you.
Participants will be picked up from Riesa train station at different times on the day of arrival, at 1 pm, 3 pm or later, by arrangement. Your accommodation is located in Zeithain. You will meet there in the afternoon of the day of arrival. More Information about train and bus connections: www.bahn.com or https://www.bvg.de/en
Please note: There is a special Teenage Fee of 150€ for international volunteers who applied under 18 in this camp. You will receive more detailed information with the specific information sheet for your camp after your enrolment has been confirmed. As the camp can only take place with enough participants we aks you to wait with making any travel arrangement till 15th of May.
Code:IJGD 24305
Where:Raubling
Number of volunteers:14
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
Over 200 years ago, people began to use peat as an energy source due to the increasing demand for energy and the shortage of wood. Across Germany, almost 97% of the original moorland areas were destroyed by draining and peat extraction. Between 2005 and 2012, the "Rosenheimer Stammbeckenmoore" near Raubling underwent one of the largest raised bog renaturations in Central Europe. In the former peat extraction areas, drainage ditches were closed and peat walls were filled to keep the rainwater in the moor. Plant growth and species richness are now greatly increasing on the rewetted areas. They also help to protect against flooding and climate change (reduction of greenhouse gases). In this work camp, you will have the opportunity to make the original nature in the moors and nature conservation work accessible and tangible in an ecologically compatible way. You will build hiking trails made of wood, slate and bark mulch, clear bushes, build wooden benches and tables, create an experience station for insects and build a wooden shed, all with a fantastic view of the Bavarian Alps. The camp is sponsored by the municipality of Raubling and the Environmental, Cultural and Social Foundation in the district of Rosenheim.
The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles: Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education. Follow us on Instagram ijgd_workcamps Facebook @ijgd.workcamps
You can experience one of the most beautiful Bavarian natural and vacation landscapes, go swimming, go on mountain tours, hikes or excursions to Neuschwanstein, Lake Chiemsee, Munich and Salzburg. There are swimming opportunities in lakes, outdoor pools and moors. During the last work camp, many excursions were organized with the support of the municipality, such as a trip to the Rosenheim Autumn Festival.
You cook together. You will be provided with money for shopping. Vegetarian or vegan meals are possible. Please indicate any intolerances when registering. You live in the large gym at the sports field in the center of Raubling. Kitchen with industrial dishwasher, showers and toilets are available. You sleep on gym mats. Wifi is available.
You will ride bikes to the work place, so you have to be able to cycle. The work can be physically demanding Please bring sturdy shoes (hiking boats or rubber boats) with you. Please also bring swimming gear as well as rain gear and sun protection.
You meet at the accommodation. We ask for an arrival until 6pm. Take the local train (S-Bahn) line S8 heading into the direction of “Herrsching” and get off at “München Ost”. Then change over into the “Meridian” train heading into the direction of Kufstein and get off at “Raubling”. At the station: Go to the back entrance. At the traffic lights, go across “Kufsteinerstraße”. Turn left and walk about 500m to the “Sportplatz”, where you will find your accommodation. The project partners will put up signs with “Workcamp Raubling ijgd” to guide you to your accommodation.
Code:IBG 16
Where:Wolframs-Eschenbach
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18+
The focal point of the project will be the relocation of the pavilion from its former home at the old kindergarten site to its new site. But that's not all - unleash your inner artist as you pick up brushes and paint to breathe new life into the pavilion and the surrounding playground areas. Your creative skills will not only help in the renovation of these spaces and playing tools but also bring joy and wonder to the children who will make use of them. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity by lending a hand in the construction of two insect hotels, providing vital sanctuaries for the declining insect populations. There are no special skills required for this camp! There will be a professional work instructor who helps you with all tasks.
Nestled in the picturesque Franconia region of Bavaria, the small medieval town of Wolframs-Eschenbach eagerly awaits the return of an international group to lend a helping hand. This year, the community is reaching out for help in transforming the new kindergarten site into a vibrant and inviting space where children can immerse themselves in play amidst natural beauty. Your involvement in this project will not only contribute to the physical improvement of the area but also create lasting memories for the local community and volunteers alike.
Wolframs-Eschenbach is a small medieval town with an historic centre that is still completely is surrounded by a well-preserved fortification. It is located only 50 kilometres from Nuremberg and close to the Franconian Lake District. This area with several great lakes was created as a result of one of Germany's largest water-management projects and is a very popular touristic area.
You will be accommodated in the local Elementary and Middle School of Wolframs-Eschenbach, very close to the centre of the village. Here you will transform two classrooms into dormitories, and you will sleep on camp-beds/floor mattresses, so be sure to bring your sleeping bag! You will have access to the lounge in the auditorium as your “chill area”, a fully equipped kitchen, and toilets and showers in the building. Your group of volunteers will be responsible for grocery shopping and cooking together. The food will be bought with the camp budget and everybody will take turns for cooking, washing the dishes and cleaning. In order to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, we encourage volunteers to reduce meat and try more sustainable dishes.
The meeting point will be at Triesdorf Train Station, where pick ups will be organized to take you to the accommodation. Please be sure to arrive before 19:00 to Triesdorf. You can find all information about how to get there in the following link: https://www.bahn.de/
Code:OH-W06
Where:Lohra Castle, Northern Thuringia
Number of volunteers:14
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
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The tasks will be mowing andcollecting the grass. Additionally, the participants of the project will support the work on renovations on the Castle grounds. The hilly massive around Lohra Castle is listed as National Nature Reserve. Open Houses supports the Reserve since several years with volunteering activities. In a forest near the Castle the participants will remove trees and bushes which are not corresponding with the protection aims in order to clean the paths and make them enjoyable again. They will also will collect the wood remaining after maintenance works, load it on a truck, unload it at the castle and split and stack it for wintertime or for the fireplace. Besides that, the volunteers will continue the maintenance of the green area at the castle. In addition, in the later part of the summer, they will support the recollection, assortment, splitting and storage of wood to prepare the castle for the harsh winter months. PARTICIPATION TERMS Participants have to take part for the whole time of the project. The working part consists in six hours per day. Be informed, that during all projects the work will take place also on rainy and cold days and be prepared for that.
Open Houses – not empty buildings, but places with visible and invisible traces of history, places which have grown and decayed over the centuries, places which were shaped by those people who lived there long ago as well those who left only yesterday – places which will be shaped by those who live there or who come as a guest. Open Houses – rooms which want to be filled with dreams and ideas, with meetings and exchange, by people of different backgrounds, different cultures, different generations and different ideas and visions. The history of Open Houses Network dates back to the mid-1980s, when a group of young people started to restore village churches in East Germany in voluntary work to protect them from decay. The engagement for these buildings united people who enjoyed the freedom these activities provided and who filled these rooms with life again in ways which by far exceed the craftsmen's work done – through exhibitions, concerts, making music together or just sitting by the camp fire. Meanwhile, rooms free of political and ideological pressure are no longer urgently required; however, places have become rare where people can meet without commercial pressure, free of bureaucracy and institutionalism, free of nepotism and the exclusion which it produces. What should be easy – to go somewhere in order to meet people and to work together – has become difficult. The tightrope walk between, on the one hand, public activities in a monetary and functional sense, and the retreat into private life on the other, is very difficult, and it requires a lot of power and permanent efforts to tackle red tape and financial restrictions. Free spaces are less and less understood as common property, and are permanently being cut back. The idea of public property seems to have gone out of fashion, and places of common responsible work have become rare. Open Houses Network tries to create and protect such spaces. In this process, we do not want to be the doers, but be people who have a vision, who want to initiate something, but who also are aware of depending on the co-operation of others. We understand our projects and events as offers – as offers to create space for commitment, for changes, for meetings.
LOCATION: Next towns: Bleicherode (6 km), Nordhausen (20 km), Erfurt (75 km) Region: Thuringia Lohra Castle is situated in the heart of Germany in Northern Thuringia. The castle, which is surrounded by a scenic hilly landscape, is located on the edge of a natural reserve area. Being one of the largest castles in Thuringia, the history of castle Lohra begins in the Middle Ages. Its architectural styles which have been preserved in the structures of the ensemble attest to a prolonged period of occupation and historical evolution up until today. The castle is more than thousand years old, and it is a relic of German medieval past that is still standing at the heart of a region through which the story of the German nation has been written. Today, it includes twenty buildings from different time periods, showcasing this historical evolution to the enchantment of visitors and heritage enthusiasts: medieval fortifications, remnants of a tower from the 11th century, a Romanesque double-floored chapel, a manor house from the Renaissance period as well as stables and granaries from the 19th and the early 20th centuries. The ensemble is situated in the centre of a beautiful forest. LEISURE TIME The camp places are mostly situated in small villages in rural areas, so the participants should not expect busy places and normal city activities for the leisure time during the working days. Small trips in walking distance are possible in the afternoon. On the weekends it is possible to organise an excursion to nearby cities or to have other leisure activities.
ACCOMMODATION: shared rooms with 2 – 5 beds in 3 guest houses, warm shower (limited hot water), 1 camp kitchen (cold water), coal-burning stoves FOOD: The meals will be prepared together as they are part of the community life, what means that every participant will be responsible for the meal at least once during its stay. So, it would be very nice if the participants could bring typical recipes from home in order to introduce each other to the preparation of food from all over the world.
WHAT TO BRING Usually, average temperatures in Germany during the summer time are about 20o C to 30o C; during the night it will get colder. It is possible that there may be two weeks of non-stop sunshine, but every day rain is not impossible either. In September and October, it's about 8o C to 18o C. Passport Insurance Certificates (EU-members should bring their European Health Insurance Card; those which have an individual travel insurance should bring the certificate) sleeping bag stable work boots, really appropriate for practical work appropriate clothes, waterproof coat mosquito protection lotion dictionary typical recipes, sweets, music, instruments and games from the participants' home country for group activities
TERMINAL: Next bus station: Großlohra, Friedrichslohra/Wartehalle Next railway stations: Gebra/Hainleite (5 km), Wolkramshausen (12 km). Next airports: Leipzig/Halle (LEJ, 155 km), Frankfurt/Main (FRA, 280 km), Berlin (BER, 300 km)
Open Houses does not provide internet access or phone at the sites. So, it will be not possible for the participants to check emails or to make phone calls from the project place. The next public phones are at most of the places far away and there are no internet cafes nearby. In the case that participants will need access to internet or phone they should prepare themselves in advance. Furthermore, washing machines are not available at the camp places.
Code:NIG08
Where:Peenemuende
Number of volunteers:8
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
This workcamp is for nature lovers since the work will be mainly outdoors. The volunteers will work in a nature park on the island “Usedom” located in the Baltic Sea. There is a lot of work around the natural reserve. Since it’s not possible to use common agriculture techniques, volunteers have to do everything manually. Moreover, every meadow around must be cut and the grass has to be put aside. The aim of this project is to help to protect this unique reserve through your contribution.
This project is organized by NiG e.V., a german non-profit and non-government organization. In this project we work together with the historic technical museum of Peenemünde. The Peenemünde Historical Technical Museum is working on the history of the creation and use of weapons during World War II. The exhibitions document who worked in Peenemünde, how people lived and why the enormously elaborate weapon projects were carried out.
Peenemünde is located in the northern part of the island Usedom which is located in the very north-eastern part of Germany. Usedom is the island with the most hours of sunshine in Germany and a popular travel destination. Because Peenemünde was occupied by the German army by the time of the Nazi-Regime, the nature could grow and bloom freely and many salt and orchid meadows sprouted. But Peenemünde is mainly known for its significant role in the times of the Nazi regime. Whereas Peenemünde first was a place where the Nazis' army was positioned for developing different military tactics, it later became a labour camp in 1943. The prisoners had to help assemble the V-2 rockets and other military objects. Leisure time: Excursions can be planned together, short trips to nearby towns, swimming. There will be bikes provided to get to the working location.
The volunteers will stay in multiple rooms at a youth hostel. Full board is included (also vegetarian). There will be someone cooking for the participants. Dinner will be warm; lunch and breakfast will be sandwiches.
Please bring a sleeping bag, a mattress pad, working clothes and motivation.
Will be send to the volunteers with the travel information.
Code:VJF24 6.4
Where:Kommunalservice Jena Stadtforstverwaltung Vor dem Neutor 7, 07743 Jena
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
In the first week, you will work with local foresters in the wood of Jena. You tasks will include various environmental works, e.g. maintaining footpaths, lookout points and shelters. Your help will be needed for different nature protection projects. Please be prepared for environmental works to help the rangers only outside. In the second week, the volunteers will help the environmental organisation “Fuchsturmgesellschaft” to chop down trees for a better visibility and let a bright landscape appear from the way leading to the tower and maintenance work in the flora-fauna habitat. Your help will be needed in the Education Path; also, huts need renovation or maintenance. This is a camp for nature lovers! Work can be physically challenging at times.
Area: Jena is with about 100.000 inhabitants the 2nd biggest city in Thüringen and is situated on the banks of the river Saale, surrounded by white and grey calcite mountains in the eastern part of Thüringen. Jena is famous for the high-tech Zeiss Optical Instruments, the Schiller University and the Zeiss-Planetarium, which is the oldest continuously operating planetarium in the world. The city of Jena and its surroundings present many good opportunities for recreation and relaxing. Leisure Time: Please notice that Jena city is far away from your accommodation, so better be ready to spend lots of time by yourselves, enjoying games / sports and outdoor activities. We can go hiking and have cycling tours in this beautiful area. We can also make trips to other cities, for example we can travel to Weimar, which is well known as the workplace of the poets Goethe and Schiller. You’ll be able to learn more about history, as we could visit the former concentration camp Buchenwald. The student city of Jena offers many cultural possibilities to explore. Free-time activities will mainly depend on your ideas and wishes.
Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in an isolated hostel on a hill in the Western part of Jena. Your only neighbours will be the woodland animals. All bed linen will be provided. We have the chance to have campfires, play ping-pong and volleyball, to go swimming and so on. A washing machine is available. There will be no internet access in the accommodation. Food: Full board, you will get the possibility to cook traditional meals occasionally. Please be prepared for typical German food. You will have cold breakfast and supper (bread!) and a warm meal for dinner.
Please be fully vaccinated (2 to 3 shots of one of the following vaccines: BioNtech/Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson&Johnson) or recovered (date of infection must be min. 28 days old and max. 90 days old).
Code:VJF24 1.1
Where:Naturpark Nossentiner/Schwinzer Heide Ziegenhorn 1 19395 Plau am See, OT Karow
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
Your work will include different activities in a natural park like to build an apiary, to help farmers or similar works. Your help is also needed for maintenance works, e.g. on orchid meadows, in forests or on a bird island. This project is especially for nature lovers. Please be prepared to work 5-6 hours a day. Volunteers should come prepared for light or heavy work and be motivated for anything to help the rangers of the Nature Reserve.
www.naturpark-nossentiner-schwinzer-heide.de
Area: The project is located in the nature reserve "Nossentiner Schwinzer Heide" in the northeast of Germany. You can find many beautiful lakes and dense forests there. The nearest bigger place is Krakow am See. The place is remote, but the surrounding nature is beautiful. Be prepared to spend two weeks in nature without shopping opportunities. Leisure Time: The nature reserve can be explored on foot, by bike or by boat. In the area there are many beautiful lakes where you can swim. There is a possibility to participate in guided tours through the forest or learn about the endangered animals of the region. Also a trip to a bigger city or to the Baltic Sea can be planned. The activities are discussed in the group and will be decided together.
Accommodation: You will live on a camping site close to a very nice lake. You will sleep in tents (2 persons per tent) on camping beds with mattresses. Please bring a sleeping bag and bed linen. If it will rain you can sleep in a building. A kitchen, sanitary facilities and a big meeting room are provided on the camping site. A washing machine can be used. Please be aware, that there is only limited internet connection! You will live on a camping site close to a very nice lake. You will sleep in a 2-person tent equipped with a camping bed with a mattress. Please bring a sleeping bag and bedding. In case of rain there will be a possibility to sleep in the main building, which is located on the same property. On the campsite are available: a kitchen, sanitary facilities, a washing machine, a large meeting room and a roofed terrace. Please note that there is limited internet connection! Food: The volunteers will prepare their own meals. It would be nice, if you bring some recipes and maybe special spices for easy cooking from your home countries.
Please be fully vaccinated (2 to 3 shots of one of the following vaccines: BioNtech/Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson&Johnson) or recovered (date of infection must be min. 28 days old and max. 90 days old).
Only limited Wi-Fi available.
Code:IJGD 24320
Where:Hersbruck
Number of volunteers:16
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
In Hersbruck you have the opportunity to participate in many different great projects. You can do handicrafts, get creative and work with wood. Interculturality and encounters with young people from the Nuremberg region are the main focus here. The following projects are on the agenda: - The low ropes course on the site is to be dismantled and possibly rebuilt, you can help with this - There is a youth center and a restaurant on the grounds of the Edelweißhütte; you can help pave a barrier-free path between the parking lot, the restaurant and the youth center - You can give the wooden façade of the restaurant a new coat of paint by sanding the wood first - The furniture (tables and chairs) in the restaurant also needs a new coat of paint - Last but not least, you can also get a little creative and build new pallet furniture for the outdoor area
The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles: Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education. Follow us on Instagram ijgd_workcamps Facebook @ijgd.workcamps Social Media Project Partner: Instagram kjr_nbg_land Facebook @kreisjugendring.nurnbergerland
Hersbruck is not far from Nuremberg and has 2 train stations (Hersbruck (l Pegnitz) and Hersbruck (r Pegnitz)). You can travel from both in the direction of Nuremberg. You also have many opportunities to spend your free time on the grounds of the Edelweißhütte: Football, table tennis, table football, a lovely campfire site and a pizza oven, which was created in a previous project. There are also several lakes nearby (Happurger Stausee and the "Baggersee" swimming lake), the outdoor pool in Hersbruck and many paths where you can hike to your heart's content. The history of Hersbruck: From July 1944 to April 1945, Hersbruck was home to the second largest satellite camp of the Flossenbürg concentration camp, where 9,000 prisoners from all over Europe were held. They had to build an underground tunnel system for an armaments factory in neighboring Happurg. The Hersbruck/Happurg documentation site commemorates this camp with two installations: one is located at the former site where the concentration camp prisoners were housed in Hersbruck; the other at the former site of forced labor in Happurg. The Flossenbürg Concentration Camp Memorial offers free public tours every first Sunday of the month at 2 pm. The meeting point is the documentation site in Hersbruck (Badstraße, in the immediate vicinity of the Fackelmann thermal baths). Excursions are also available here if you would like to take a short historical detour with your group.
You will spend the night in newly erected yurts on the grounds of the Edelweißhütte learning and experience space. The kitchen and sanitary facilities are located in the self-catering house. The Edelweißhütte is located on a hill above Hersbruck, on the edge of the small village of Deckersberg. Surrounded by forest, you have a great, spacious area at your disposal. The Edelweißhütte will not only be occupied by you during this time, so expect and make use of the contact with other local youth groups.You will cook together. You plan, shop, cook and clean the kitchen and the accommodation yourselves. From experience we recommend daily shifts of teams with two people, who, on that day don’t take part in the work shift.
At the train station in Hersbruck (l Pegnitz) Attention! There also is a train station called “Hersbruck (r Pegnitz)”, this will NOT be the meeting point! You will be picked up in a minibus by the camp leaders. The camp leaders will ask for your arrival times beforehand. Please let the camp leaders know if there are any last-minute changes. We ask for an arrival until 6pm. Directions to Meeting Point: From airport Nürnberg take the U-Bahn (U2 directed to „Nürnberg Röthenbach“) to „Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof“, this is Nürnberg central station. At the central station you need to change into the S-Bahn (S2 directed to “Hersbruck(l Pegnitz)") and get off at your destination Hersbruck (l Pegnitz). More Information about train and bus connections: www.bahn.com.
Code:VJF/ESC24 2.1
Where:KIEZ Hölzerner See Weg zum Hölzernen See 1 15754 Heidesee
Number of volunteers:20
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
International and national volunteers are invited to improve the grounds of the centre. Tasks are likely to include construction, gardening, maintenance and renovation works. It is planned to create corners relaxation, to paint playground equipment, to maintain the water playground and similar tasks. Other environmental and construction works are possible. Please be aware that you will not work with children!
www.hoelzerner-see.de
Area: The "KiEZ Hölzerner See" is situated at the shore of the Lake “Hölzener See” in Dubrow in the south of Berlin. The "KiEZ" is a recreation centre for children and teenagers, young adults, groups, choires, sport organisations, ... You will live and work in a place with many groups. If you smoke, please ask the host or leader where you are allowed to smoke. Please refrain from smoking in front of children. Please check with the host regarding alcohol consumption and if you choose to drink please be responsible and only do so during free-time. You can find more information and pictures of the centre: www.hoelzerner-see.de. Leisure Time: There are bicycles and boats which you can use. There is minigolf, beach volleyball, football, basketball, outdoor tabletennis and a table tennis hall. The group will visit together: · Capital city Berlin · Potsdam with castle park of Sanssouci · Klein Köris - 2000 year old village
Accommodation: You will live in small bungalows. Bed linen will be provided. The sanitary track with showers, toilets is situated next to the bungalows. Close to the sleeping place you will have your own meeting room, a place to meet and relax in the evening. Food: All meals will be provided in the centre. The catering is well organised, with set meal times for the different groups accommodated at the same time.
This project is composed of a volunteering team, supported by the European Solidarity Corps program of the European Union. Compared to the usual workcamp participation scheme, some main financial and administrative differences must be underlined: ATTENTION PLEASE: This project is open to all volunteers that fit the ESC criteria presented on the ESC webpage: https://europa.eu/youth/solidarity/mission_en - Volunteers do not have to pay any fee (no sending, nor participation fee) to attend the project - Volunteers need to enroll in the PASS, the European Solidarity Corps Portal; We will organize your matching in the portal with the volunteering project. - Volunteers will receive pocket money, calculated on basis of the rate of Germany: 5€/day, once they arrive on the project in Germany - Volunteers will receive a financial support for their travel, according to a maximum amount established in accordance with their travel distance and upon the presentation of original tickets. - Volunteers will have to complete a participation report, submitted online through the portal. It is needed to have basic knowledge of english and/or german language. Please be fully vaccinated (2 to 3 shots of one of the following vaccines: BioNtech/Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson&Johnson) or recovered (date of infection must be min. 28 days old and max. 90 days old).
Prepare at home information about your home country to inform at an evening-event at the workcamp. Your presentation: approx. 30 minutes. Besides your presentation you could bring things for visualization or small souvenirs for every participant.
Code:IJGD 14007
Where:Gifhorn, Lower Saxony
Number of volunteers:10
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:16-26
Do you want to actively contribute to the climate and the renaturation of a moor? Then you can get active on a small area in a nature reserve near Gifhorn. Peatlands not only play an important role in storing CO2, they also store water and have a cooling effect on the surrounding landscape. You will be working on an area near Gifhorn that is part of a nature reserve, continuing the work project of last year's work campers. To prevent the area from becoming a forest or drying out, young pine and birch trees must be removed. These can either be pulled out by hand or removed with spades and branch shears. After that, the small trees must be removed from the area. In doing so, you not only make your contribution to climate protection, but also help to preserve valuable habitats and rare species (e.g. peat mosses). To ensure that the area remains particularly attractive for rare dragonflies (spear damselflies), a few peat pits (hollows) must be improved so that the water can remain there for longer and thus remain a habitat for the dragonflies.You will work mostly independently, but will be guided and supported by staff members of the Department of Environment. Your programme also includes the construction of various nesting aids.
The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education. Follow us on Instagram ijgd_workcamps Facebook @ijgd.workcamps Project hosts are the Department of Environment and Department of youth work of the District Gifhorn
You can organize your free time in a varied way: As a group, you will have the entire scout center and the outdoor area all to yourselves. In 2 km distance there is a large bathing lake guarded by DLRG with sandy beach, mini golf, pedal boats and climbing tower. In the city center with the old half-timbered houses there are several bars - especially popular is the beach bar Cappucabana. In addition to a day at the swimming pool, bowling or canoeing, a trip to the mill or castle museum and to the Gifhorn Heath is also worthwhile. At the FBZ Grille leisure and education center, you can also get in touch with young people from the region during the day, and there are often events and concerts there in the evenings. You can also take the train from Gifhorn station to Hannover, the capital of Lower Saxony, in 45 minutes and experience lots of art, culture, music, exhibitions and parties there.
You cook together. Money for the food shopping is provided to you. Vegetarian or vegan meals are possible. Please indicate any allergies when registering. Scout home “Welfenhof” with a large outdoor area, an indoor barbecue room and an outdoor barbecue. Two rooms are equipped with cots for sleeping. Toilets and showers, kitchen. The supermarkets in the area can be reached by bike. For larger purchases a VW bus is available. The distance between the accommodation and the city centre is 6 km.
Fitness for physically demanding work. Closeness to nature. You must be able to ride a bike. The place of work in the forest and all leisure activities are best reached by bicycle.
Meeting point and time: at the train station in Gifhorn. A minibus will be waiting there at 16:30 and 18:30 to take you to the accommodation
Please note: INTERNATIONAL volunteers under 18 who apply for this camp have to pay a special teenage fee of 150€ to ijgd (more information after your regsitration) Copyright of the pictures Dr. Kathrin Baumann, Jule Mérono and Hilke Steevens.
Code:OH-C04
Where:Lohra Castle and other places
Number of volunteers:1
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:20-35
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The camp leader has to be able to work independently as well as in a team. Since most of the camps are organised by several camp leaders (one or two and one or more technical leaders) it is necessary to agree upon several issues in a team. All in all, leading a camp means a lot of work and empathy as well as a lot of fun. Open Houses gives the camp leaders the opportunity to be creative and to take over responsibility for their own work. Of course, they will not be left alone in their role. Before getting active as a camp leader s/he will take part in one camp as a volunteer, parallel to the introduction as camp leader. It will be a good experience to be an “ordinary participant” for one or two weeks and to get to know the camp leader's tasks from the participants' point of view. After experiencing the atmosphere of the first camp and after Open Houses and the potential camp leader have gotten to know each other better. PARTICIPATION TERMS Participants have to take part for the whole time of the project. The working part consists in six hours per day. Be informed, that during all projects the work will take place also on rainy and cold days and be prepared for that.
Open Houses – not empty buildings, but places with visible and invisible traces of history, places which have grown and decayed over the centuries, places which were shaped by those people who lived there long ago as well those who left only yesterday – places which will be shaped by those who live there or who come as a guest. Open Houses – rooms which want to be filled with dreams and ideas, with meetings and exchange, by people of different backgrounds, different cultures, different generations and different ideas and visions. The history of Open Houses Network dates back to the mid-1980s, when a group of young people started to restore village churches in East Germany in voluntary work to protect them from decay. The engagement for these buildings united people who enjoyed the freedom these activities provided and who filled these rooms with life again in ways which by far exceed the craftsmen's work done – through exhibitions, concerts, making music together or just sitting by the camp fire. Meanwhile, rooms free of political and ideological pressure are no longer urgently required; however, places have become rare where people can meet without commercial pressure, free of bureaucracy and institutionalism, free of nepotism and the exclusion which it produces. What should be easy – to go somewhere in order to meet people and to work together – has become difficult. The tightrope walk between, on the one hand, public activities in a monetary and functional sense, and the retreat into private life on the other, is very difficult, and it requires a lot of power and permanent efforts to tackle red tape and financial restrictions. Free spaces are less and less understood as common property, and are permanently being cut back. The idea of public property seems to have gone out of fashion, and places of common responsible work have become rare. Open Houses Network tries to create and protect such spaces. In this process, we do not want to be the doers, but be people who have a vision, who want to initiate something, but who also are aware of depending on the co-operation of others. We understand our projects and events as offers – as offers to create space for commitment, for changes, for meetings.
Lohra Castle and other places LEISURE TIME The camp places are mostly situated in small villages in rural areas, so the participants should not expect busy places and normal city activities for the leisure time during the working days. Small trips in walking distance are possible in the afternoon. On the weekends it is possible to organise an excursion to nearby cities or to have other leisure activities. s/he organises leisure activities after the working days and is welcome to prepare campfires, barbecues, games or other group activities. For the weekends the camp leader should be ready to plan little trips to bigger cities nearby or other activities.
ACCOMMODATION: Depending on the camp place. Please have a look at the camp place descriptions. FOOD The meals will be prepared together as they are part of the community life, what means that every participant will be responsible for the meal at least once during its stay. So, it would be very nice if the participants could bring typical recipes from home in order to introduce each other to the preparation of food from all over the world.
The camp/ technical leader can apply for longer or less than the dates mentioned (consultation with Incoming officer). DURATION: Between six weeks and four months, the beginning dates are fixed because of the introduction course WHAT TO BRING: alarm bell, calculator, purse, working gloves and strong shoes, sleeping bag, waterproof clothes Motivation letter related to the project, CV + photo and basics of German and valid driver license an asset Usually, average temperatures in Germany during the summer time are about 20o C to 30o C; during the night it will get colder. It is possible that there may be two weeks of non-stop sunshine, but every day rain is not impossible either. In September and October, it's about 8o C to 18o C. Passport Insurance Certificates (EU-members should bring their European Health Insurance Card; those which have an individual travel insurance should bring the certificate) sleeping bag stable work boots, really appropriate for practical work appropriate clothes, waterproof coat mosquito protection lotion dictionary typical recipes, sweets, music, instruments and games from the participants' home country for group activities
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Open Houses does not provide internet access or phone at the sites. So, it will be not possible for the participants to check emails or to make phone calls from the project place. The next public phones are at most of the places far away and there are no internet cafes nearby. In the case that participants will need access to internet or phone they should prepare themselves in advance. Furthermore, washing machines are not available at the camp places.
Code:OH-W07
Where:Lohra Castle, Northern Thuringia
Number of volunteers:14
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
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The tasks will be mowing andcollecting the grass. Additionally, the participants of the project will support the work on renovations on the Castle grounds. The hilly massive around Lohra Castle is listed as National Nature Reserve. Open Houses supports the Reserve since several years with volunteering activities. In a forest near the Castle the participants will remove trees and bushes which are not corresponding with the protection aims in order to clean the paths and make them enjoyable again. They will also will collect the wood remaining after maintenance works, load it on a truck, unload it at the castle and split and stack it for wintertime or for the fireplace. Besides that, the volunteers will continue the maintenance of the green area at the castle. In addition, in the later part of the summer, they will support the recollection, assortment, splitting and storage of wood to prepare the castle for the harsh winter months. PARTICIPATION TERMS Participants have to take part for the whole time of the project. The working part consists in six hours per day. Be informed, that during all projects the work will take place also on rainy and cold days and be prepared for that.
Open Houses – not empty buildings, but places with visible and invisible traces of history, places which have grown and decayed over the centuries, places which were shaped by those people who lived there long ago as well those who left only yesterday – places which will be shaped by those who live there or who come as a guest. Open Houses – rooms which want to be filled with dreams and ideas, with meetings and exchange, by people of different backgrounds, different cultures, different generations and different ideas and visions. The history of Open Houses Network dates back to the mid-1980s, when a group of young people started to restore village churches in East Germany in voluntary work to protect them from decay. The engagement for these buildings united people who enjoyed the freedom these activities provided and who filled these rooms with life again in ways which by far exceed the craftsmen's work done – through exhibitions, concerts, making music together or just sitting by the camp fire. Meanwhile, rooms free of political and ideological pressure are no longer urgently required; however, places have become rare where people can meet without commercial pressure, free of bureaucracy and institutionalism, free of nepotism and the exclusion which it produces. What should be easy – to go somewhere in order to meet people and to work together – has become difficult. The tightrope walk between, on the one hand, public activities in a monetary and functional sense, and the retreat into private life on the other, is very difficult, and it requires a lot of power and permanent efforts to tackle red tape and financial restrictions. Free spaces are less and less understood as common property, and are permanently being cut back. The idea of public property seems to have gone out of fashion, and places of common responsible work have become rare. Open Houses Network tries to create and protect such spaces. In this process, we do not want to be the doers, but be people who have a vision, who want to initiate something, but who also are aware of depending on the co-operation of others. We understand our projects and events as offers – as offers to create space for commitment, for changes, for meetings.
LOCATION: Next towns: Bleicherode (6 km), Nordhausen (20 km), Erfurt (75 km) Region: Thuringia Lohra Castle is situated in the heart of Germany in Northern Thuringia. The castle, which is surrounded by a scenic hilly landscape, is located on the edge of a natural reserve area. Being one of the largest castles in Thuringia, the history of castle Lohra begins in the Middle Ages. Its architectural styles which have been preserved in the structures of the ensemble attest to a prolonged period of occupation and historical evolution up until today. The castle is more than thousand years old, and it is a relic of German medieval past that is still standing at the heart of a region through which the story of the German nation has been written. Today, it includes twenty buildings from different time periods, showcasing this historical evolution to the enchantment of visitors and heritage enthusiasts: medieval fortifications, remnants of a tower from the 11th century, a Romanesque double-floored chapel, a manor house from the Renaissance period as well as stables and granaries from the 19th and the early 20th centuries. The ensemble is situated in the centre of a beautiful forest. LEISURE TIME The camp places are mostly situated in small villages in rural areas, so the participants should not expect busy places and normal city activities for the leisure time during the working days. Small trips in walking distance are possible in the afternoon. On the weekends it is possible to organise an excursion to nearby cities or to have other leisure activities.
ACCOMMODATION: shared rooms with 2 – 5 beds in 3 guest houses, warm shower (limited hot water), 1 camp kitchen (cold water), coal-burning stoves FOOD: The meals will be prepared together as they are part of the community life, what means that every participant will be responsible for the meal at least once during its stay. So, it would be very nice if the participants could bring typical recipes from home in order to introduce each other to the preparation of food from all over the world.
WHAT TO BRING Usually, average temperatures in Germany during the summer time are about 20o C to 30o C; during the night it will get colder. It is possible that there may be two weeks of non-stop sunshine, but every day rain is not impossible either. In September and October, it's about 8o C to 18o C. Passport Insurance Certificates (EU-members should bring their European Health Insurance Card; those which have an individual travel insurance should bring the certificate) sleeping bag stable work boots, really appropriate for practical work appropriate clothes, waterproof coat mosquito protection lotion dictionary typical recipes, sweets, music, instruments and games from the participants' home country for group activities
TERMINAL: Next bus station: Großlohra, Friedrichslohra/Wartehalle Next railway stations: Gebra/Hainleite (5 km), Wolkramshausen (12 km). Next airports: Leipzig/Halle (LEJ, 155 km), Frankfurt/Main (FRA, 280 km), Berlin (BER, 300 km)
Open Houses does not provide internet access or phone at the sites. So, it will be not possible for the participants to check emails or to make phone calls from the project place. The next public phones are at most of the places far away and there are no internet cafes nearby. In the case that participants will need access to internet or phone they should prepare themselves in advance. Furthermore, washing machines are not available at the camp places.
Code:ICJA2401
Where:Gossberg
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
Volunteers are invited to continue the special project GARDEN OF ENVIRONMENT – FIELDS for PLAYING AND LEARNING at our gardening land. It will offer different stations where visitors can learn and experience about nature and sustainability … very creative, surprising and funny! – There will be physical work, using tools and working with materials like wood, rocks, soil. You will work outdoors most of the time. Volunteers who like to exercise can make firewood. Every year, volunteers are invited to get to know the local Perma Culture garden and do some gardening there. While looking after the plants, there is the possibility to harvest fruits. Of course, there is also an opportunity to get to know the idea of a Permaculture with its plants and environment. Therefore, we are looking for 12 motivated young people who are interested in handicrafts, advanced training and gardening/landscaping.
The "Universitas in Farmhouse" is a center of education for nature, culture, youth work and sustainability. The aim of this project is to demonstrate different ecological cultivation methods. It is a long-standing partner of successful workcamps and a wonderful place to feel at home.
The afternoons, evenings and weekends are free for personal use: sports, fieldtrips in the region and to Freiberg, swimming. In the last weekend, volunteers will join the summer party of the University in the Farmhouse: Youth Music Festival WILD ART with many musicians. If you are in the mood, bring an instrument with you – drums and guitars can be provided.
The participants are accommodated in the big seminar room. Food will be prepared together in the big kitchen of the seminar house.
Please bring a sleeping bag with you and an isolation sheet. Gossberg is situated in a remote area; you can enjoy nature and countryside.
Lunaria - Associazione di Promozione Sociale
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+39 06 88 41 880
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Lunaria ha ottenuto nel 2021 i label di organizzazione accreditata nell'ambito dei programmi Erasmus+ e Corpo Europeo di Solidarietà. E' stata premiata come Best Practice europea nel 2015 e nel 2017 per i progetti di Capacity Building con paesi partner. Né la Commissione Europea né le le sue Agenzie sono responsabili del contenuto del sito dell'associazione.