Work

Participants will have time to put the theory about photography into practice, exploring the city. At the end of the camp, the best photographs from each participant will be selected for an online exhibition on SEEDS social media. Participants should bring their own digital cameras, lenses, tripods, and laptops, if possible. While learning about photography, the participants have the opportunity to explore Icelandic culture through active participation: capturing it, engaging with it, and showcasing their work throughout the camp. One of our goals is to empower young people to use photography to highlight environmental and cultural subjects and issues.Participants should be ready to spend time outdoors walking medium distances during activities and working within a flexible schedule. Participants will be photographing in their free time outside of workshop hours with images to be discussed at group feedback sessions.This camp is open to participants aged 16 to 20. During their stay, SEEDS organises a programme that combines learning, sharing, getting to know Iceland and its culture, and having fun while exploring the city and some of the most stunning natural attractions in the Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula excursions. Note that this is a learning/sharing camp and not a regular workcamp; this project has a smaller volunteer work part and emphasises the personal learning process over the community impact. We may be able to organise some outdoor voluntary work, but it depends on our partners and the weather conditions.

Partner

This is the eighteenth year (since 2008) that SEEDS has organised a series of International Photography projects and we began organising these camps for teenagers in the year 2010. Throughout the year, participants from all over the world come to Iceland for an immersive photography-focused learning camp. SEEDS coordinators help participants to develop their unique photographic skills through workshops and feedback sessions on technical settings, compositional considerations, and creating conceptual frameworks that highlight each participant s individual style.

Location

Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The world s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavik 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.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with an equipped kitchen, dining and living room, bathrooms, showers and a washing machine. As participants sleep in shared rooms with up to 6 people, everyone is expected to behave considerately. Please bring your own towel. Participants will receive food supplies and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music or games from your country for the intercultural evening. 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

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

Meeting point

Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) on June 5 at the SEEDS office. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later flights) will receive instructions on how to reach the camp location. Those arriving earlier the same day are welcome from 10:00 am in the office to drop their bags/luggage and wait for the meeting time.

Work

Participants will 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.While learning about photography, the participants have the opportunity to explore Icelandic culture by taking part in it, capturing it and also by displaying their work during the camp. One of our objectives is to empower young people to use photography to draw attention to environmental and cultural subjects and issues.Participants should be ready to spend time outdoors walking medium distances during activities and working within a flexible time schedule. Participants will be photographing in their free time outside of workshop hours with images to be discussed at group feedback sessions.This camp is open to participants aged 16 to 20. During their stay, SEEDS organises a programme that combines learning, sharing, getting to know Iceland and its culture, and having fun while exploring the city and some of the most stunning natural attractions in the Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula excursions. Note that this is a learning/sharing camp and not a regular workcamp; this project has a smaller volunteer work part and emphasises the personal learning process over the community impact. We may be able to organise some outdoor voluntary work, but it depends on our partners and the weather conditions.

Partner

This is the eighteenth year (since 2008) that SEEDS organises a series of International Photography projects and we started organising these camps for teenagers in the year 2010. Throughout the year, participants from all over the world come to Iceland for an immersive photography-related learning camp. SEEDS coordinators help the participants to develop their unique photographic skills through workshops and feedback sessions on technical settings, compositional considerations, as well as to create conceptual frameworks highlighting the participants individual style.

Location

Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The world s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavik 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.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with an equipped kitchen, dining and living room, bathrooms, showers and a washing machine. Everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. Participants sleep in shared rooms of up to 6 people. Bring your own towel. Participants will receive food supplies and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music or games 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

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

Meeting point

Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) in the afternoon of June 23 at the SEEDS office. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later flights) will receive instructions on how to reach the camp location. Those arriving earlier the same day are welcome from 10:00 am in the office to drop their bags/luggage and wait for the meeting time.

Work

ProgramThere are diverse activities in the camp program: canoeing, water scootering, running ATV, paintball in the forest, sport games - football, rugby, volleyball, athletics, table tennis, archery, frisbee, disc-golf, trampolines, different competitions, forest cross, sport orientation in the forest on and on sea (navigation), fishing, Viking boats, bicycle trips to explore the area, visit to the horse farm with horse riding, excursions historical places of interest in the area, active games and adventure trail in Roosta Adventure Park, picnics on a seaside, building sand and stones castles on the beach, Estonian sauna party, etc. Bikes are available for the whole camp duration free of charge. WorkThere will be also some voluntary work such as painting of community buildings, making wooden toys and games for local orphanage, repairing benches and tables, cleaning local beach and old local park from garbage, planting trees, little renovation works in the local school, clearing pavement, helping seniors living in the community with some household duties, preparing fire woods for heating, berries and herbs picking to give the crop to the orphanage and seniors home, duty in a kitchen and around the camp once in a shift, etc. The work will be organised in cooperation with local forestry department, municipality of Nova and local school. Please note that the work described above is planned for the whole summer and it may change from one shift to another depending on local needs, the season and weather conditions.

Partner

This camp is organized for teenagers by youth sport club Lukas-Basket which has been running national youth camps for 25 years and International ones for the past 12 years. International teenage camps will be hosted on seaside in the West of Estonia in Laanemaa County in the municipality of Nova. Beautiful nature, numerous historical places, 200 years long tradition of health resort, unique cultural events are the treasures of the County. Nova with warm sea, white sand, mushroom and berry crops, picturesque lakes, cobble stone road and many places of interest is ideal place for leisure. The aim of Nova camp is to give young people possibility to have active, healthy and meaningful summer vacations with different sport adventures, to enjoy unspoiled nature and to learn to live in harmony with it, also to explore and realize their own capacities and limits. The program will include water activities, sport and ball games, eco-hikes, bicycle trips to places of interest, horse riding, fishing, rowing, acquaintance with local culture and many other exciting things. Mens sana in corpore sano (Healthy Spirit in Healthy Body) i this is the message of the camp Besides all this, camp gives possibility for intensive contacts between local youth and their peers from abroad, showing youngsters the diversity of world cultures, broadening their horizons and encouraging active communication through games and creative activities. Finally, there will be some voluntary work for nature protection and to support local community. The area of the camp is about 3 hectares and it can host over 60 youngsters on one shift. The age of local participants is 10-18. Local teenagers are mainly Russian-speaking of minority communities of Estonia. Videos from past camps are available here https://www.facebook.com/100001353283293/videos/1230983641495965/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwTAJF6pIGsfeature=youtu.be

Location

LocationNova is one of 11 municipalities of Laanemaa with about 400 inhabitants, located on the seaside 90 km west from capital of Estonia Tallinn and 40 km north from Haapsalu, famous spa town with many historic and cultural sites. More information on www.novavald.ee/index.php/1 The camp is located on Nova basic Schools territory (www.nova.edu.ee)Surroundings and camps infrastructureSchoolhouseSports hallTable tennisWooden housesInformation centreRefreshments stall with water coolersGym equipment for fitness exercises on schools territoryFootball fieldBasketball court on the schools territoryVolleyball court on the beach4 lakes within 4 km from the camp side2 sand beaches in the distance from 0,5-7 kmForest Management Centre wooden tents with table and grill for picnic near the beachGrocery store and cafe 0,5 km awayHiking paths marked by Forest Department

Accomodation

AccommodationIn wooden huts set by the local school nearby the seaside (500 m away). Please bring your sleeping bag and mat. Showers, toilets are provided in the school and there will be additional bio-toilets set on camping site. You can have traditional Estonian sauna every dayCateringMeals are served 3 times a day. There are water machines with cold water in the school complex. Catering takes place in the schools mess hall or into the lager tent outside near the mess. Meals are cooked by professional cooks. However participants will be asked to help cleaning.Medical AidCamp staff members have medical certificates and are able to provide the first aid. And there is a car on call 24/7 which goes to the nearest hospital, which is 40km away, in more serious case of any emergency.

Requirements

Special requirementsParticipants have to be sporty (e.g. be ready to run up to 3 km, bike up to 30 km), independent enough, curious and interested in active life style. Please inform us beforehand about allergies, dietary requirements you have or others prescriptions from your doctor. Please bring sleeping bag and mat, wind and waterproof clothes, goods shoes, warm and summer clothes. It s advisable to take thermal underwear. If possible, please take tick vaccination before coming. Generally, age of participants is 14-17, however exceptions are possible. NB Smoking, drinking alcohol, using drugs is absolutely prohibited in the camp and this policy will be followed strictly Thus, if you cannot quit smoking for a while it is probably better not to come. Camp common language is English. Local languages are Estonian and Russian.Participation feeUnlike the normal camp there will be not too much of work here. Nevertheless, participants will be provided with board, lodging, local transportation and all equipment necessary to realize camp program. Besides, program involves a lot of extra costs for excursions, trips out, visits, sport activities, equipment, materials and general administration and leadership. Since neither EstYES nor its local camp partner, does not receive financial support for this camp from municipality or private sources, to realize this camp we have to charge participation fee of 500 Euro, which covers all camp and program costs including transfer from Tallinn to and from the camp, and which has to be paid by bank transfer before the camp or by participants upon arrival to the camp. The bank details will be provided after the acceptance of the participant to the camp. NB Participants coming from outside Europe are asked to consult with us before paying fee by bank transfer to reduce high banking charges.

Meeting point

Terminal and arrivals/ departureAirport, bus station, harbor in Tallinn; specially arranged bus to Nova. Pick up in the airport will be organized. Then participants will be accompanied either to the direct public bus or to taxi to go to the meeting point at Oismae tee 177, Oismae Sportmangude Hall (Sport Hall of Games) where group leaders will be waiting for them.On arrival day there is relaxation, getting to know each other, ball games in the sport hall, dinner, lodging for the night at the sport hall. Showers and WC are in the facility of the sport hall. On the next day there is a breakfast at 8 am and departure to camp site. On the last day of the camp there is a breakfast and departure at 11:30 am from the camp with the arrival to Tallinn airport by 13:00. If your departure is scheduled to an earlier hour a special transfer from the camp to the airport can be booked at additional fee. In case of earlier arrival or later departure accommodation in hostel can be booked upon request.

Work

Summer school aimed at promoting youth learning about the value of nature and the environment by bringing them closer to and connecting them with the local natural ecosystem. This fosters environmental awareness and provides them with learning tools, as well as respect for nature and humanity, through activities focused on the local flora and fauna. - Volunteers will prepare with the help of the coordinators and campleaders different activities and workshops for the local children (we are looking for committed and proactive participants). - Volunteers will participate in relaxion workshops, excursions, activities in the rural world and natural sciencies, manual and creative activities. A space free of screens, warm, for learning and fun among all young people and focused on nature will be created. The participant will be instructed and will instruct to become familiar with the true protagonists of the camps, nature and coexistence. They will learn to know, respect and value the land and the inhabitants who populate it. Knowledge of English is mandatory and Spanish or Valencian is valued. During the summer, temperatures can be very high, and weather conditions may not be optimal due to this.

Partner

A collabolation agreement has been drawn up between Altea Town Hall and the Altaia Higher Education Center and De Amicitia where the students of said institute will participate in this summer camp promoted by De Amicitia association within the framework of international volunteering.

Location

Altea La Vella is a district of Altea, a municipality in the province of Alicante (Spain). It has 583 inhabitants (INE 2012). This place of the Marina Baja is located between the sea and the mouintains and was the origin of the current Altea. Its white houses stand out. It is located 3.5km south north of the urban center of Altea, 3 km south of the Sierra de Bernia, 2 km west of the Mediterranean Sea and 9 km from Callosa de Ensarriá.

Accomodation

The facilities of Finca Santa Bárbara have the optimal requirements for carrying out this project, since they are located in a rural enclave, with toilets, showers, children's games area, a picnic area, camping areas for TENTS and a swimming pool. Summer sleeping bag is necessary. The food is provided by our campleaders and the volunteers will be cooking in groups by the guidance of our campleader. Tents will be provided by the organization yet you can bring your own tent if you wish

Requirements

The extra fee has be paid by card ( in the exceptional cases we can accept bank transfer as well) 3 weeks before the camp as a confirmation of participation. If we don't recieve the fee and the flight/bus tickets of the volunteer, we will consider that she/he will not attending to project and we will give opportunity to other volunteers that are on the waiting list.

Meeting point

Alicante (ALC) Airport, 28/06 in the afternoon (around 17-18 pm). Please take into consideration before booking your plane that If the volunteers arrive in the morning, they'll have to wait till afternoon. On the departure day volunteers will be helped to travel to the airport at 10:00 am but we cannot guarantee to help the check in. More details will be given soon.

Work

The aim of this workcamp is to preserve the natural reserve area surrounding called "Fonts del Río Algar." More concretely, the work will be mainly dedicated to parks and gardens maintenance or “arboretum”: removing the over-grown grass, weeding some parts of the grasslands and the edge of the woods, maintaining footpaths. Volunteers will also take part in the clean-up of some areas of the reserve where building waste has been found, and if time allows it, they will carry out some painting works around the centre. There will be other additional tasks to change the daily routine of the volunteers. Volunteers might participate in projects using recycled materials, such as sculptures, murals, mosaics, crafts, artistic activities, or other initiatives requested by the local town hall. Also, here may be a day of social work with the youngsters of the town in the local youth center, depending on availability and planning.

Partner

Town Hall of Callosa en Sarriá. De Amicitia have been collaborating with this local partner for many years. Since recent years the town hall is developing a policy of sustainable tourism which includes the recuperation of deprived environmental areas and cultural heritage.

Location

The municipality is located in the province of Alicante, in the northern part of the Marina Baixa region, 10 km from the coast and 42 km from the city of Alicante. Algar Waterfalls at only 15 km from Benidorm and 3 km from the center of Callosa. This area was declared a Wetland protected by the Valencian Government. It is a park about the importance of water as an environmental resource, economical and cultural. The visit is a route through a circuit of 1.5 km in length along, where you can walk through the bed of the river Algar, see the spectacular waterfalls and the numerous sources, the "tolls" (pools of water) where you can take refreshing swims in crystal clear water, the old dam, the imposing century-old canal and ditches still in use. Apart from the Waterfalls, there are other interesting sites in Callosa like the cultural heritage of the town, old narrow streets in the center. Also, there are several beautiful hiking routes around Callosa. One of the most spectacular places is El Fort de Bèrnia. Not far from Callosa, you can visit a town called Guadalest which has an ancient castle. Also, Altea, another beautiful town near the sea can be visited. The beach is not far from the house and somedays, the volunteers can take a trip to the beach of Altea.

Accomodation

In a small rural house with basic conditions, some kilometres away from the village centre, with 2 different rooms. No need to bring a mattress but bring lower sheets and a summer sleeping bag are necessary. The centre is equipped with showers and WC. The food is provided by our campleaders and the volunteers will be cooking in groups by the guidance of our campleader. Please keep in mind that during the summer, weather conditions may not be optimal due to the high temperatures.

Requirements

The extra fee has be paid by card ( in the exceptional cases we can accept bank transfer as well) 3 weeks before the camp as a confirmation of participation. If we don't recieve the fee and the flight/bus tickets of the volunteer, we will consider that she/he will not attending to project and we will give opportunity to other volunteers that are on the waiting list.

Meeting point

Alicante (ALC) Airport at 17:15 The campleaders will be welcoming the volunteers at 17:15 of every first day of each workcamp at Alicante el Altet Airport and they will be taken to the campsite by public bus. Volunteers have to pay the bus from Alicante to Altea and back. Therefore arrival to Alicante el Altet should be done before 17.00. Please take this into consideration before booking your plane. If the volunteers arrive before, they have to wait till 17:00. On the departure day volunteers will be helped to travel to the airport at 10:00 am but we cannot guarantee to help the check in.

Work

VOLUNTEER WORK: Volunteers will carry out environmental and sustainable conservation volunteering while learning hands on practice in carbon-negative food production and sustainability. Volunteers’ day to day task would include a range of skill based learning activities: Planting trees, growing vegetables, tree work. Volunteers will also be harvesting fruits and vegetables which are needed for the market, alongside the potential of some construction work to further enhance the volunteer’s skillset. Volunteers will be receiving an educational experience alongside the volunteering. Main volunteering tasks will include: • Berry Picking • Cleaning and weeding • Tending to plants • Looking after wildlife • Tree care • Education sessions with the host

Partner

PROJECT: Rock Farm is a therapeutic growing project open to everyone, restoring both the landscape and people through an innovative market garden model. We grow fruit and vegetables using regenerative, permaculture, and no dig principles, with absolutely zero pesticides or herbicides. We are at the cutting edge of embedding productive crops in a forest garden ecosystem, which sinks a large amount of carbon into the soil instead of emitting it and provides the backbone of our sustainability and therapeutic curricula. Retreats, camping, workshops and horticulture courses are also available at Rock Farm, especially for marginalised people. Rock Farm is part of One Church Brighton, an organisation with several social projects in and around the Brighton area. Rock Farm grows produce on six acres of community land in West Sussex, offering access to horticultural therapy and community gardening for a range of volunteers and vulnerable groups.

Location

Volunteers will have cultural visits and leisure activities will be organised together with the group. Activities will include: • Walk to local town Steyning • Takeaway Pizza • Games Night • Visit to Brighton • Farwell Party LEADERS: To ensure the smooth running of the project and the safety of young people, Concordia provides one paid and trained Leader for every 10 young people. There are two farm shops within short walking distance if volunteers want to get any food/snacks – with a further two villages within an hour’s walk. The accommodation is on the South Downs walking trail, with many beautiful hikes available to the volunteers. The Concordia Leader will help volunteers make plans for their free time – but volunteers will be expected to contribute ideas and suggestions for activities. Volunteers will have the chance to visit the local area and go for hikes in the countryside. Visits to close-by sites will ensure that the group get the whole feeling of the area and learn about living in the British culture.

Accomodation

ACCOMMODATION & FOOD: Volunteers will stay in large style canvas tents throughout the project, 'this is an off-grid, sustainable style living and project so do pre plan and bring warm clothes and items to sleep to in. Rock farm will provide dry goods and fresh produce for two meals per day, plus one hot meal cooked together with the rock farm staff. All Volunteers are expected to get involved in the cooking process and washing up. IMPORTANT: – Even in the British Summertime it can be VERY COLD AT NIGHT – please ensure you bring enough warm clothes. Wet weather clothing and footwear is also strongly recommended, as the site can get muddy and even the summer can bring a rainy day. Volunteers will have access to two outdoor showers – these are outdoor showers, so you will need to bring flip-flops/sliders and a swimming costume – as these are carbon negative showers there will only be a certain amount of hot water per day – one of the tasks for the volunteers is to create the hot water system! Rock farm will provide a small furnished cabin in the camping area for use as a meeting and relaxing area. There are a four further buildings/cover for eating and cooking – including a pizza oven! The farm operates mostly off-grid, so all toilets are composting loos and there is a limited amount of solar-power for basic charging of phones. It is strongly recommended to bring a battery-pack for your phone, and to embrace having a break from your tech!

Requirements

ACCESSBILITY: Volunteers need to be able to work outdoors in various types of weather, walking on uneven ground is required.

Meeting point

To be confirmed by Concordia

Notes:

ACCESSBILITY: Volunteers need to be able to work outdoors in various types of weather, walking on uneven ground is required. Parental consent is required for this teenage project.

Work

The project initiated by Jaunatne smaidam / Youth for Smile, stemming from their 2010 Outdoor Education Center, is a commendable effort to foster environmental sustainability through an innovative sustainable farm-training center. This initiative aims to serve as a platform for the dissemination of information and knowledge about sustainability on both a local and global scale. The project invites international volunteers to participate in a work camp that adopts a holistic approach to everyday life. Volunteers will engage in various tasks based on weather conditions and real needs, spanning fields such as agriculture, farming, restoration of natural areas, and traditional building preservation. Key activities within the work camp include: Permaculture Garden Development: Volunteers will work on creating and maintaining a permaculture garden, emphasizing sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Animal Care: Volunteers will have the opportunity to care for animals on the farm, including sheep, goats, rabbits, etc. This involves building pasture paddocks and preparing food for the winter season. Restoration of Natural Areas: The project involves restoring natural meadows by clearing them of bushes and purifying rivers from overgrowth, contributing to the preservation of local ecosystems. Nature Path Creation: Volunteers will engage in creating a nature path in the forest by removing bushes and planting trees, enhancing the natural beauty of the area and providing educational opportunities. In addition to these hands-on activities, the work camp will incorporate non-formal education sessions focused on eco-activism. These sessions aim to empower volunteers by developing their competencies to implement activities within their communities. The methodology for these educational sessions has been developed within the framework of the Erasmus+ project "Youth Action For Nature and Well-being" (www.yafnaw.eu). Overall, the project represents a comprehensive and collaborative effort to address environmental sustainability through practical initiatives, education, and the engagement of international volunteers. The inclusion of various activities ensures a well-rounded experience for participants while contributing positively to the environment and local communities.

Partner

Founded in 2005, Jaunatne smaidam / Youth for Smile is an energetic non-profit and non-governmental organization dedicated to enriching the lives of young people in the Bauska region and beyond. At the heart of our mission, we are a values-driven community committed to empowering youth to innovate, share experiences, and foster a sense of togetherness. Our Vision: Empowering Youth, Enriching Communities Create: We ignite local and international projects that open doors for learning, participation, and self-expression in safe, nurturing environments. Experience: We offer dynamic experiences that are both local and global in scope, designed to enhance personal development and prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Be Together: We are dedicated to building a vibrant community where young people can develop essential competencies that contribute to the growth and vitality of their local communities. Our Impact: From sparking youth-led initiatives to providing enriching educational opportunities through non-formal settings, our work is centered around fostering intellectual and creative growth. We ensure that young individuals enjoy their leisure constructively, gain access to critical developmental resources, and acquire life skills that are integral to lifelong success. Join Us: Our community thrives on the contributions, energies, and passion of our members, ranging from children to young adults aged 7-30. We sustain our impactful programs through memberships, contributions, and significant grants from prestigious sources such as Erasmus+ programs, European Solidarity Corps, and State youth programs. Embark on a journey with Jaunatne smaidam / Youth for Smile—where you create, experience, and connect in meaningful ways. Together, let’s smile, share, and inspire!

Location

Work camp will be organized in Bārbele village, Bauska municipality. Farm is located in a rural area around 6 km from village. Nearest bus stop is 3 km away. The administrative centre of the municipality is Bauska located 60 km from Rīga (capital city of Latvia). During a work camp we will have possibilities to visit different cultural and historical places. Volunteers will have possibilities to organise intercultural events, etc. More information about region - https://www.tourism.bauska.lv/en/. More about Latvia - https://www.latvia.travel/en.

Accomodation

Living conditions are very basic. Volunteers will be accommodated in a rural farm. Sleeping will be in tents provided by the organisers. We will provide mattresses as well. Toilets and washing facilities will be provided. Cooking will be done by volunteers themselves in the outdoor kitchen. Volunteers should bring their sleeping bags. Do not forget some traditional or typical food from your home country for the international evening.

Meeting point

Meeting point will be in Gaisma bus stop. Please let us know about your arrival time at least day before camp. For volunteers who don’t have experience to travel alone we will organize meeting in Riga bus station.

Work

Project Overview: "Youth for Smile" in partnership with a local NGO is set to breathe new life into the dormant former orphanage of Lauderi village, turning it into a bustling hub for non-formal education. Volunteers like you are the heart of this transformation, playing a key role in revitalizing both the building and its surroundings. This picturesque village serves as the perfect canvas for your energy and creativity to foster learning and community engagement. Your Impact: Revitalize the Park: Work alongside fellow volunteers to clean, landscape, and beautify the park area around the orphanage, creating an inviting outdoor space for future educational activities. Interior Makeover: Roll up your sleeves to clear out old furnishings and debris, setting the stage for a fresh, vibrant learning environment. Build Community Connections: Your efforts will bridge connections with local residents, fostering a collaborative spirit essential for the center’s future success.

Partner

Founded in 2005, Jaunatne smaidam / Youth for Smile is an energetic non-profit and non-governmental organization dedicated to enriching the lives of young people in the Bauska region and beyond. At the heart of our mission, we are a values-driven community committed to empowering youth to innovate, share experiences, and foster a sense of togetherness. Our Vision: Empowering Youth, Enriching Communities Create: We ignite local and international projects that open doors for learning, participation, and self-expression in safe, nurturing environments. Experience: We offer dynamic experiences that are both local and global in scope, designed to enhance personal development and prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Be Together: We are dedicated to building a vibrant community where young people can develop essential competencies that contribute to the growth and vitality of their local communities. Our Impact: From sparking youth-led initiatives to providing enriching educational opportunities through non-formal settings, our work is centered around fostering intellectual and creative growth. We ensure that young individuals enjoy their leisure constructively, gain access to critical developmental resources, and acquire life skills that are integral to lifelong success. Join Us: Our community thrives on the contributions, energies, and passion of our members, ranging from children to young adults aged 7-30. We sustain our impactful programs through memberships, contributions, and significant grants from prestigious sources such as Erasmus+ programs, European Solidarity Corps, and State youth programs. Embark on a journey with Jaunatne smaidam / Youth for Smile—where you create, experience, and connect in meaningful ways. Together, let’s smile, share, and inspire!

Location

Explore and Engage: Cultural Richness: Located in the scenic Ludza municipality, Lauderi is a gateway to exploring Eastern Latvia's lush landscapes and rich history. Take cultural excursions during your downtime, visit historical sites, or simply soak in the tranquility of the countryside. Community Interaction: Small village life means you’ll get to know the locals and immerse yourself in their traditions and daily activities. Beyond the Village: Discover more about Latvia and its hidden gems through Latvia's official tourism site - https://www.latvia.travel/en.

Accomodation

Accommodation & Food: Rustic Charm: Experience authentic rural life staying in an organization house close to the project site, with beds provided for a comfortable rest. Self-Catering Fun: Engage in communal cooking in our simple yet equipped kitchen. It’s a great chance to bond with your team and perhaps whip up some international dishes! International Evenings: Bring a piece of your home country to share during our cultural nights, making each meal a global adventure.

Meeting point

Meeting and Coordination: Arrival Points: Fly into Riga International Airport or arrive by bus and head to our meeting point at Zilupe train station. Stay Connected: Keep us updated about your arrival details to ensure a smooth welcome!

Work

The aim of this workcamp is to preserve the natural reserve area surrounding called "Fonts del Río Algar." More concretely, the work will be mainly dedicated to parks and gardens maintenance or “arboretum”: removing the over-grown grass, weeding some parts of the grasslands and the edge of the woods, maintaining footpaths. Volunteers will also take part in the clean-up of some areas of the reserve where building waste has been found, and if time allows it, they will carry out some painting works around the centre. There will be other additional tasks to change the daily routine of the volunteers. Volunteers might participate in projects using recycled materials, such as sculptures, murals, mosaics, crafts, artistic activities, or other initiatives requested by the local town hall. Also, here may be a day of social work with the youngsters of the town in the local youth center, depending on availability and planning.

Partner

Town Hall of Callosa en Sarriá. De Amicitia have been collaborating with this local partner for many years. Since recent years the town hall is developing a policy of sustainable tourism which includes the recuperation of deprived environmental areas and cultural heritage.

Location

The municipality is located in the province of Alicante, in the northern part of the Marina Baixa region, 10 km from the coast and 42 km from the city of Alicante. Algar Waterfalls at only 15 km from Benidorm and 3 km from the center of Callosa. This area was declared a Wetland protected by the Valencian Government. It is a park about the importance of water as an environmental resource, economical and cultural. The visit is a route through a circuit of 1.5 km in length along, where you can walk through the bed of the river Algar, see the spectacular waterfalls and the numerous sources, the "tolls" (pools of water) where you can take refreshing swims in crystal clear water, the old dam, the imposing century-old canal and ditches still in use. Apart from the Waterfalls, there are other interesting sites in Callosa like the cultural heritage of the town, old narrow streets in the center. Also, there are several beautiful hiking routes around Callosa. One of the most spectacular places is El Fort de Bèrnia. Not far from Callosa, you can visit a town called Guadalest which has an ancient castle. Also, Altea, another beautiful town near the sea can be visited. The beach is not far from the house and somedays, the volunteers can take a trip to the beach of Altea.

Accomodation

In a small rural house with basic conditions, some kilometres away from the village centre, with 2 different rooms. No need to bring a mattress but bring lower sheets and a summer sleeping bag are necessary. The centre is equipped with showers and WC. The food is provided by our campleaders and the volunteers will be cooking in groups by the guidance of our campleader. Please keep in mind that during the summer, weather conditions may not be optimal due to the high temperatures.

Requirements

The extra fee has be paid by card ( in the exceptional cases we can accept bank transfer as well) 3 weeks before the camp as a confirmation of participation. If we don't recieve the fee and the flight/bus tickets of the volunteer, we will consider that she/he will not attending to project and we will give opportunity to other volunteers that are on the waiting list.

Meeting point

Alicante (ALC) Airport at 17:15 The campleaders will be welcoming the volunteers at 17:15 of every first day of each workcamp at Alicante el Altet Airport and they will be taken to the campsite by public bus. Volunteers have to pay the bus from Alicante to Altea and back. Therefore arrival to Alicante el Altet should be done before 17.00. Please take this into consideration before booking your plane. If the volunteers arrive before, they have to wait till 17:00. On the departure day volunteers will be helped to travel to the airport at 10:00 am but we cannot guarantee to help the check in.

Work

This camp is open to participants aged 16 to 20. During their stay, SEEDS organises a programme that combines learning, sharing, getting to know Iceland and its culture, and having fun while exploring the city and some of the most stunning natural attractions in the Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula excursions. Note that this is a learning/sharing camp and not a regular workcamp; this project has a smaller volunteer work part and emphasises the personal learning process over the community impact. We may be able to organise some outdoor voluntary work, but it depends on our partners and the weather conditions.

Partner

This is the eighteenth year (since 2008) that SEEDS has organised a series of International Photography projects and we began organising these camps for teenagers in the year 2010. Throughout the year, participants from all over the world come to Iceland for an immersive photography-focused learning camp. SEEDS coordinators help participants to develop their unique photographic skills through workshops and feedback sessions on technical settings, compositional considerations, and creating conceptual frameworks that highlight each participant s individual style. Participants will have time to put the theory about photography into practice, exploring the city. At the end of the camp, the best photographs from each participant will be selected for an online exhibition on SEEDS social media. Participants should bring their own digital cameras, lenses, tripods, and laptops, if possible. While learning about photography, the participants have the opportunity to explore Icelandic culture through active participation: capturing it, engaging with it, and showcasing their work throughout the camp. One of our goals is to empower young people to use photography to highlight environmental and cultural subjects and issues.Participants should be ready to spend time outdoors walking medium distances during activities and working within a flexible schedule. Participants will be photographing in their free time outside of workshop hours with images to be discussed at group feedback sessions.

Location

Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The world s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavik 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.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with an equipped kitchen, dining and living room, bathrooms, showers and a washing machine. As participants sleep in shared rooms with up to 6 people, everyone is expected to behave considerately. Please bring your own towel. Participants will receive food supplies and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music or games from your country for the intercultural evening. 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

English will be the language in the camp; intermediate conversational skills are needed.Closest international Airport: Keflavik/Reykjavik (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavik (BS).Participation fee EUR 650 (Euros), which needs to be transferred to SEEDS the latest one month before the camp starts to confirm the placement. It includes food, accommodation, transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), the Golden Circle and Reykjanes excursions. We will visit spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline, a volcano crater, the Thingvellir National Park and much more.Additional excursions (eg. Hot River Hike or the South Shore) can be arranged at discount fares depending on time availability, weather conditions, and the number of participants interested in joining them. Be prepared for cold or rainy weather and bring warm and/or waterproof clothing.

Meeting point

Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) on July 11 at the SEEDS office. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later flights) will receive instructions on how to reach the camp location. Those arriving earlier the same day are welcome from 10:00 am in the office to drop their bags/luggage and wait for the meeting time.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 650 (Euros), which needs to be transferred to SEEDS the latest one month before the camp starts to confirm the placement. It includes food, accommodation, transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), the Golden Circle and Reykjanes excursions. We will visit spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline, a volcano crater, the Thingvellir National Park and much more.