volontariato internazionale, antirazzismo, pace, diritti
Code:PT-IPJ 11.4
Where:-
Number of volunteers:15
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
Collection and sorting of seeds of native plants. In these activities participants will be able to get to know the region s natural areas; Cleaning of watercourses, control of invasive species and habitat restoration- In order to ensure the normal hydrological and hydraulic functioning of the watercourses, the participants will proceed to clean, cut and remove the invasive vegetation present in the bed and margins of the temporary watercourses, and support biophysics technics implementation; Plant Nursery maintenance work. In this activity participants will be involved in daily plant nursery tasks, such as watering, transplanting, soil preparation, cleaning and organize the plant nursery space, etc.; Zero Waste Cleaning Activity in urban areas.
Following the work that Marca ADL has been developing over the past years on the themes of Climate Change, Sustainability, and Green Economy, this year we intend to work on these themes together, building a perspective on the issue of water resources management and biodiversity as a solution.1) Raise awareness about the importance of youth mobilization and participation in solving local and global problems;2) Promoting youth participation and involvement in environmental and social issues, in particular in the management of water resources and biodiversity;3) Reflect on the causes and consequences of climate change and ways to act as citizens, particularly in terms of managing water resources and biodiversity;4) Reflect on the importance of autochthonous flora species for biodiversity
This camp takes place in a rural territory, close to a small city, Montemor-o-Novo in Alentejo region, Portugal. The camp will be at a 7 minutes distance by car from Montemor-o-Novo, transport for the activities will be assured.It is located at approximately at a 100 km distance from Lisbon, the Portuguese city capital and 35km from Evora.
The participants will be accommodated in individual tents which is located 5 km from Montemor-o-Novo.There the participants will cook breakfast and snacks; Lunch and dinner will be provided, exception for weekends where participants have to cook lunch and dinner. Participants are responsible for cleaning the common kitchen and dishes.
Sleeping bag; Towels and toiletries (personal hygiene items); Clothes and shs appropriate for high temperatures and for work in the field; Warm clothes for the night (minimum temperature 12I C); Torch for night use; Insect repellent; Bathing suit, sun cream and towel (we have pool and we are going to the beach; Necessary documents; Motivation and positive energy to work as a team
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Code:SEEDS 049.
Where:SVEITARFELAGID OLFUS
Number of volunteers:8
Language:English
Extra-Fee:400 EUR
Age:18+
This camp allows volunteers to learn about global and local environmental issues through non-formal educational activities such as workshops, discussions, presentations and visits, as well as to contribute directly to environmental protection by joining outdoor coastal cleanup tasks in the shores and beaches. Additional work will be undertaken in the area of our accommodation such as removing old fences dangerous to wildlife and visitors, as well as helping with renovation and maintenance of the house. We may also be marking some walking paths and, depending on the advance of the mentioned tasks, volunteers might do some forestry tasks in a small forest planted in the area, like trimming the vegetation or planting some trees. This camp combines learning, sharing, hands-on work and fun. No previous experience is needed. Volunteers should prepare to share environmental issues from their countries and be ready to spend time outdoors, walking during the cleanups. Volunteers should be ready to adapt and be flexible with the work and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the planned activities.
The Awareness, Engagement and Action project is part of a series of camps organised by SEEDS in cooperation with different partners, where we try to raise awareness about current environmental issues and encourage the volunteers to take action One of our main goals for the next few years is to contribute to a nation-wide project aiming at cleaning up the Icelandic coastline. SEEDS works along and supports the Icelandic ministry for Environment and Natural Resources, the Icelandic Environmental organisation Landvernd, the Environmental Agency of Iceland, Umhverfisstofnun and other partners in order to draw attention to the issues of ocean pollution, plastic waste and to engage volunteers in cleaning up actions around the country.
The accommodation is located 1 hour drive south-east from Reykjavik. The house serves as an environmental-educational centre where visitors can have a look at an extensive stone and stuffed animal collection. The house sits under Ingolfsfjall, The Mountain of Ingolfur, with a view to Eyjafjallajokull where the volcanic eruptions started in March and April 2010. The place is registered as natural Icelandic heritage; the nature, vegetation and birdlife is rich in variety and quantity. The volunteers can enjoy outdoor activities in a peaceful and beautiful location with a small stream and a pond nearby. Hiking trails with maps about cultural heritage can be found spread around the area, which is a popular attraction among foreign and local visitors. The nearest town, Selfoss, only 10 minutes-drive away with 6500 inhabitants, is a centre of commerce and small industries where you find a geothermal swimming pool, shops, museums, cafes and bars.
SEEDS volunteers will stay in an old farm which has been transformed into an environmental-education centre. The facilities are basic with a kitchen, shower, and a washing machine. Volunteers will sleep in shared rooms, up to 6 people per room. Please bring your own sleeping bag.Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Remember to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.
Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes accommodation, food and one trip to the Hot River area in Reykjadalur. The fee does not include the transportation from Reykjavik to the camp and back, which costs EUR 30 one way or EUR 60 both ways. Meeting time will be 13:00 (1:00 pm) on April 5 at SEEDS Office in Reykjavik. Other excursions (e.g. Golden Circle, the South Shore or Reykjanes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares if there is additional free time after the camp activities. It may be cold and/or rainy, so we recommend bringing warm and waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) and good walking shoes.
Meeting time will be 13:00 (1:00 pm) on July 18 at SEEDS Office in Reykjavik.
Participation fee EUR 400 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes accommodation, food and one trip to the Hot River area in Reykjadalur. The fee does not include the transportation from Reykjavik to the camp and back, which costs EUR 30 one way or EUR 60 both ways. Meeting time will be 13:00 (1:00 pm) on July 18 at SEEDS Office in Reykjavik. Other excursions (e.g. Golden Circle, the South Shore or Reykjanes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares if there is additional free time after the camp activities. It may be cold and/or rainy, so we recommend bringing warm and waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) and good walking shoes.
Code:CONCF-8011-ESC
Where:Autrêches
Number of volunteers:14
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
Join us in Autrêches to participate in an exciting project focused on preserving the natural and built heritage within an innovation hub. During this project at l’Hermitage, our mission will be to renovate and rebuild a large wooden/earthen staircase, while also carrying out minor masonry renovation on the first steps and installing a remarkable handrail made from reclaimed wood. Additionally, we will contribute to environmental preservation by constructing shelters for wildlife using pallet wood, as well as cleaning and rehabilitating various natural sites on the premises. This will also be an opportunity to collaborate with local youth and other organisations present on site, thereby strengthening community ties and the spirit of solidarity. Join us for this rewarding and engaging experience in Autrèches, where every action counts towards preserving our heritage and environment.
The hermitage portrays a place of great historical richness and strategic importance, now transformed into a true rural innovation hub. Located in the heart of a lush green hill steeped in history, it embodies the testimony of a crucial frontline during the First World War, as well as a remarkable medical innovation center in the 1950s. Building on this heritage, a new project is emerging, aiming to breathe new life into this iconic venue. The proposal to create a staircase on the site to establish a common and more accessible hiking space is both relevant and inspiring. It aligns perfectly with our shared vision focused on environmental respect and strengthening connections between individuals and their territory. This initiative not only promises to preserve the Hermitage but also to transform it into a dynamic hub for exchange and gathering, offering unique opportunities for community engagement and connection with local heritage.
Autrêches (750 inhabitants) is located in the department of Oise, in the Picardie region. A small enclave of Oise within the department of Aisne, it is a village composed of several hamlets. The region boasts a rich historical heritage that you can explore nearby: The Palace of Compiègne, the cathedrals of Soissons, and the Château de Pierrefonds, among others. The Hermitage is a community hub welcoming various actors to its premises. Among them is an associative café/bar, where intercultural activities and exchanges are scheduled. These include a large international karaoke night, a visit to the market garden farm, and various concerts throughout the week. More information on the city's website: https://www.hermitagelelab.com/activites/
You will be accommodated in individual tents on the Hermitage park, and will have access to two bungalows equipped with toilets, showers, and a kitchen. The living area will be under a large marquee in the middle of the forest. The group will be sharing the cleaning chores and preparing meals together, and you will participate as well in the grocery shopping and in the preparation of meals, prioritising products from the market and local producers.
Remember to bring work clothes for the work site as well as closed shoes. As the accommodation is under tents, remember to bring your sleeping bag as well as a sleeping mat or a camping mattress for more comfort. Don't forget your bathing suit in case you have the opportunity to go swimming! You can also bring back specialties from your country, photos, musical instruments, in short what you like and want to share on this site, either with the local population or with the group. Foreigners belonging to the European Union must bring with them a personal EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), and everybody must, in any case, bring their insurance certificate. If health issues arise on the project, volunteers will have to pay for it, and will then be reimbursed once back in their home country.
We will meet up at SOISSONS train station on 19/07 at the end of the day. The exact time of the meeting will be communicated with the roadmap, sent at the latest 4 weeks before the beginning of the work. From PARIS, regular trains are leaving from Gare du Nord train station towards SOISSONS. The ride lasts for about 60 minutes. The trains are open to booking about 4 months before the departure dates, available on the following website: https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/ The last day (03/08) is departure day, which means you can leave anytime in the morning.
This project is supported by the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program for young people aged 18 to 30. It is open to all volunteers who meet the ESC criteria and is subject to several principles and conditions presented on this page: https://europa.eu/youth/solidarity/mission_en - Volunteers do not have to pay any fees (no sending, nor participation fees) to participate in the project, and will receive financial support for their travel, subjected to a maximum amount established according to their travel distance and upon presentation of the original tickets; - Volunteers must register on PASS, the ESC portal, and Concordia will then invite them to confirm their participation in the project; - Volunteers will receive pocket money, calculated on the basis of 6€/day, upon their arrival on the project in France; - volunteers will have to fill in a participation report, submitted online via the portal.
Code:SVI-MD 02-24
Where:Rascafría
Number of volunteers:25
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
. Removal and cleaning of existing vegetation, both inside and outside as well as on the perimeter of the archaeological structures . Manual cleaning and scraping building elements (walls, floors, etc.), in order to remove harmful vegetation that may damage architectural elements. All archaeological objects found will be collected, documented and stored for further study. . Implementing archaeological methodology to excavate certain structures, strictly recording the stratigraphy of deposition levels and the construction units that may be present in the subsoil. During this process, all archaeological material will be collected. An archaeological sounding is also planned. . Recording all the archaeological materials collected, for further research and subsequent storage in the Museo Arqueológico Regional de la Comunidad de Madrid (Regional Archaeological Museum in Madrid Region), as regulatory required.
General Directorate of Youth in collaboration with the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage of the Government of the Community of Madrid. Come to our camp if you feel that… Thanks to Archaeology we can discover, study and understand the remains of our cultural ancestors. No previous experience is required to participate in The paper trail camp, as you will work with an archaeologist and a historian. This volunteer camp will take place at the foot of the mountain, in the Paular Valley. This valley has been historically linked to Los Batanes estate as an industrial development model linked to sustainable use of resources, such as the use of different hydraulic devices to harness water power. Don Quixote was first edited with galley proofs coming from Los Batanes. Preferably, students of Archaeoloy, Architecture, Restoration, Art History. Some reasons to participate in our camp In The paper trail camp, the participants will carry out various specific archaeological tasks at different locations, to discover archaeological remains, based on previous research. During 15 days, you will enjoy very special holidays, and will meet people from other regions and countries.
Rascafría, together with Oteruelo del Valle, is located in the Alto del Lozoya Valley, in the northwestern part of the Community of Madrid, in the Sierra de Guadarrama, a place of extraordinary beauty declared a National Park in 2013. Historically, the Paular Valley has been linked to the Batanes Estate as an industrial development model linked to sustainable use of resources, such as the use of different hydraulic devices to harness water power. This year, the proposed actions are a continuation of those of previous workcamps, and are intended to add value to the remains of these infrastructures as well as other conservation measures. In the volunteer camp, not everything is work, and you will have the opportunity to enjoy leisure and free time activities: • Visit to the historic center and other tourist attractions in Madrid, such as Plaza España, Gran Vía and El Retiro Park. Visit to the Museo Arqueológico Regional. • Excursion to Alcalá de Henares and visit to the archaeological site of Complutum. • Visit to the Monastery of Santa María del Paular. • Sports activities: mountain biking and interpretive hiking tours. • Workshops on orientation in nature, collaborative games, archery, swimming, etc.
Los Batanes Youth Hostel Ctra. de Cotos, s/n. Finca los Batanes 28740 Rascafría. Madrid The food will be made at the hostel and will consist of breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a mid-morning snack https://www.comunidad.madrid/centros/albergue-juvenil-batanes
Required documents - ID card - European health card or other medical insurance if available.
Start: 20-July from 6:00 pm at “Los Batanes” hostel From Madrid city to Rascafría: By public bus at the Plaza de Castilla transport exchanger. (Metro Plaza Castilla, lines 1, 9 and 10).Company: Continental Auto. Take bus line 194 Madrid-Rascafría. Bus schedule: Monday to Friday at 10:00 h, 14:00 h and 18.00 h; Saturday at 8.00 h and 18.00 h. Sunday at 8:00 h and 15:00 h.If you miss bus line 194, you may take bus line 191 to Lozoyuela, and then take bus line 194 A from Lozoyuela to Rascafría. This bus line also stops at Monasterio Santa María de El Paular.
Things to Bring Clothes to work: Sturdy boots, gloves, long-sleeve, t-shirts, long pants to prevent mosquito bites, a cap, sunscreen. Outerwear and rainwear, swimsuit, mosquito repellent, a torch, towel and cleaning supplies. No need to bring a sleeping bag. There are bed sheets at the hostel. A day at the volunteer camp (Schedule) In general, the technical tasks of the camp will be carried out in the morning, from 09 a.m. to 1:30 p. m. In the afternoon there will be leisure and free time activities: swimming pool, workshops, sports, etc. Generic Schedule: - 08:00 – Good morning - 08:30 – Breakfast - 09:00 – Technical work - 11:00 – Half hour break to eat a snack - 11:30 – 13:30: Technical work and collecting materials - 14:00 – Lunch - 15:00 – Rest break - 17:00 – Leisure and free time activities - 20:30 – Dinner - 21:30 – Night activities - 23:45 – Good night Insurance The managing entity of the volunteer camp has civil liability and accident insurance.
Code:IJGD 14014
Where:Wolfsburg, Where: Lower Saxony; 75lm from Hannover, 30km from Braunschweig, 230km from Berlin
Number of volunteers:10
Language:German
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-26
ijgd celebrates 75 years of international work camps and together with the State Forest of Lower Saxony we are celebrating 75 years of cooperation. Our workcamp groups have been actively involved in nature conservation and forest maintenance work in Wolfsburg's city forest for 14 years now! Of course we will be celebrating with you! The city forest is a habitat for many (rare) plant and animal species and a recreational area for people who jog, bike, hike or simply enjoy nature there. Due to climate change, many plants and animals are now endangered and the task of the forestry team is to protect the forest and preserve the flora and fauna for the future. You will support the forest rangers in a variety of activities in the areas of nature conservation, forest maintenance and the preservation of recreational areas for forest visitors. These tasks include the removal of non-native plants, the care of young trees and the clearing of watercourses and forest paths. You will also gain an insight into the diverse tasks of a forest ranger's office and the forest ecosystem.
Project host is the City Forestry Office of Wolfsburg 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
Internationally renowned sights in Wolfsburg are the castle and the art museum, the “Autostadt” with its Volkswagen museum and the “Phaeno” science museum. The Allerpark is a big recreation area with a bathing lake, beach and high rope course.
The group will be staying in the youth rooms in the parish hall of the Stephanus Church. There are two large rooms available for you as sleeping space, a large common room and a kitchen. You will be sleeping on camping beds. The parish hall is located by the marketplace with several supermarkets and shops. You cook together. Money for the food shopping is provided to you. Vegetarian or vegan meals are possible. Please indicate any allergies when registering.
Working time 7.5 hrs four days a week. Fridays will be free. You need fitness for physically demanding work. German language skills are also required.
The group will meet inside the accommodation, the local parish hall. Please try to arrive by 18:00. Directions to Meeting Point: Take the number 202 bus (in the direction of Detmerode), which leaves from stand 3, until you reach the “Detmeroder Markt” stop. From here you need to walk back a little bit and then go up the steps. At the top of the steps, continue straight ahead and you should see the church and the parish hall on your right.
Please note: International participants which are under 18 have to pay an andditional teenage fee of 150€ You will receive more detailed information after confirming your registration with the specific info sheet for your camp.
Code:SVI-MD 04-24
Where:Cercedilla
Number of volunteers:25
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18-30
The volunteers will learn and collaborate in a practical way, developing the following common and transversal tasks in each of the fields: creation, maintenance and care of agroecological spaces for the shelter in the garden area, the composting area and the rest of the spaces on the premises; design, manufacture and installation of signage and information panels on the uses and functions of the lodge's biodiversity spaces and the bird watching project; and expansion, review and fine-tuning of spaces to promote the biodiversity of the space for the improvement of natural settlements of birds, insects and bats as well as other species of fauna and/or flora that are considered relevant.
General Directorate of Youth of the Community of Madrid Come to our camp if you feel that… Natural environment offers you moments for healthy leisure and the opportunity to approach new alternatives to use, care for and enjoy nature, as well as other tools for human and social relations. Your volunteering will help to protect biodiversity and give you an overview of the relationship between humans and nature. Some reasons to participate in our workcamp. This is a project for the identification, monitoring and study of birds with the incorporation of a system of cameras/tracking devices, as well as sighting areas. Continuity and training would be provided on the use and management of the orchard already in operation, expanding the signage and space management resources, expanding and also working on the concepts of biodiversity, fauna and flora. Your volunteering in this workcamp will help other young people who lodge at Las Dehesas hostel to understand the significance of biodiversity in an experiential way, participating in caring for the environment and acquiring knowledge of a horticultural space. During 15 days, you will enjoy very special holidays, and you will meet people from other regions and countries.
La Fuenfría valley is located in the central area of Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, on its Southern slope. It belongs to the municipality of Cercedilla, in Madrid Region. Leisure and free time activities In the volunteer camp, not everything is work, and you will have the opportunity to enjoy leisure and free time activities: • Visit to the historic center and other tourist attractions in Madrid, such as Plaza España, Gran Vía and El Retiro Park. • Visit to the Fábrica de la luz (Light Factory), a hydroelectric power station from the 1930s. • Visit to the Royal site and Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial • Visit to the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park visitors center • Visit to the Ski Museum • Welcome party • Sports activities: mountain biking and interpretive hiking
Where will we be lodging? Las Dehesas Youth Hostel Ctra. de las Dehesas s/n. Cercedilla 28470 Cercedilla. Madrid The food will be made at the hostel and will consist of breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a mid-morning snack
- ID card - European health card or other medical insurance if available.
Start 20-July from 6:00 pm at “Las Dehesas” hostel Travelling instructions From Madrid to Cercedilla: • By bus at the Moncloa transport exchanger ( 684) • By train: commuter line C8 from Atocha to Cercedilla or line from Madrid to Segovia. From Cercedilla train station, go up Emilio Serrano street to the crossroads, and then take Las Dehesas road. The hostel is around 40 minutes walking from there.
Things to Bring Clothes to work: Sturdy boots, gloves, long-sleeve, t-shirts, long pants to prevent mosquito bites, a cap, sunscreen. Outerwear and rainwear, swimsuit, mosquito repellent, a torch, towel and cleaning supplies. No need to bring a sleeping bag. There are bed sheets at the hostel. A day at the volunteer camp (Schedule) In general, the technical tasks of the camp will be carried out in the morning, from 09 a.m. to 1:30 p. m. In the afternoon there will be leisure and free time activities: swimming pool, workshops, sports, etc. Generic Schedule: - 08:00 – Good morning - 08:30 – Breakfast - 09:00 – Technical work - 11:00 – Half hour break to eat a snack - 11:30 – 13:30: Technical work and collecting materials - 14:00 – Lunch - 15:00 – Rest break - 17:00 – Leisure and free time activities - 20:30 – Dinner - 21:30 – Night activities - 23:45 – Good night Insurance The managing entity of the volunteer camp has civil liability and accident insurance.
Code:SJ32
Where:La Ferté-Alais
Number of volunteers:20
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18+
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During this workcamp, you will take part in the renovation of the ancien wall of the nearby school. You will help building a solar shower for our ecological village.
Vir'Volt stands for InteRnational VolunTeer Village (in French). For 3 years, the organisation has been based in the heart of nature, in the middle of a regional park. By welcoming young people from all over the world each year, the future village is being built around a number of different objectives: getting to know each other and learning from our differences, reflecting and acting together to protect the environment, but also having a positive impact on the surrounding area and people by putting solidarity at the heart of each of our actions. Vir'Volt also aims to become fully eco friendly and sustainable which is reflected in our campsite ; yurts and teepees as rooms, permaculture farming and gardening, water saving projects, reducing and reusing waste. This small village will become great without sacrificing or damaging the surrounding environment whilst always searching better and more eco friendly ways of living.
La Ferté-Alais (91590) is approximately 50km south of Paris. Leisure activities: You will have the chance to enjoy the association's campsite and to discover the cultural and natural heritage of the region which is part of a natural park. You will also help organise some activities in order to meet and socialize with local young people. Other leisure activities will be organised collectively depending on the wishes of the group and the available budget. On day in Paris is scheduled.
You will sleep in collective Yurts non-mixed on the campsite of the association. Please bring a sleeping bag with you. The campsite has separate bathrooms and showers, as well as a kitchen place. Food will be provided and cooked by the volunteers in turns.
We will meet you at the association's site, a 15-minute walk from the RER station, on Sunday 21st July from 3.30pm. From Paris stations (Gare de Lyon, Gare du Nord), take the RER D to Juvisy, then change to the RER D towards Malsherbes. If your luggage is too heavy and you would like to be picked up at the station by car, please contact the Vir'Volt team BEFORE you arrive (contact details can be found in the route description sent 3 weeks before the start of the project).
This project should not be seen as a sightseeing trip to Paris. If you wish to visit Paris, you should do so before arriving or after the dates of the summer camp.
Code:OH-W04
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:IBG 12
Where:Heilsbronn
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18+
The municipality of Heilsbronn is counting on the help of international volunteers to maintain and renovate parts of the town’s infrastructure. For this year, two projects are in discussion: • Maintain a fitness trail in the forest, called ‘’Vita Parcours’. To keep the fitness trail practicable for visitors, you will clear the trail of over-grow plants along the paths and on different stations. You will also help to clean the signs and stations, as well as help to pick up left-over trash along the way. • Renovate a ‘’barefoot path’’. A barefoot path is a short way, where people can walk on barefoot, to experience different sensations. One part of it is made with pebbles, another with moss, another one with pine cones… etc. The barefoot paths in Heilsbronn are loved by kids and families and they need to be renovated regularly. You will help emptying and refilling the different parts of the path. Others projects might also be added. In case, you should expect working outside with municipal workers, doing renovation or construction works. The work will be led by a professional instructor from the builder’s yard, so no previous experience is needed. You will work 30 hours per week, somewhere between 8am to 4pm from Monday to Friday with lunchbreak on site.
The town of Heilsbronn has been hosting workcamps for 13 years already and is looking forward to welcoming another international group of volunteers this summer. The local community is a big fan of workcamps and international volunteering and has introduced other neighbouring cities to the workcamp idea as well. This year, your support will help the community maintain, renovate and extend its infrastructure (UN SDG 11 sustainable communities).
Heilsbronn is a town of 9,300 inhabitants, located in the idyllic Bavarian region called Franken (Franconia). Because Heilsbronn is situated on one of the paths leading to the famous pilgrimage city Santiago de Compostela in Spain, it is frequently visited by tourists as well as pilgrims. But Heilsbronn city centre also has a lot to offer! Supermarkets, different shops, pubs, youth centre, a barbecue area, and other infrastructure. There, you will find traditional half-timbered houses and some unique sites, such as ‘’Heilsbronn ABBEY’’, a cistercian monastery and local cathedral, both built in the 12th century. A guided tour might be organised for you if you are interested. Besides, the town can arrange free entrance to the outdoor swimming pool for your group. Nature-lovers can find several hiking trails in the beautiful surrounding landscape. The worth-seing cities of Nuremberg, Bamberg and Rothenburg are not too far away and might be visited on weekends, using public transportation.
You will be accommodated in the local youth club called ‘’JUZ’’, there are two big rooms and one small room where you will sleep on camp beds or on mattresses on the floor. Please bring a sleeping bag! There is a small kitchen, a common room with sofas and games for you to chill, two toilets and one bathroom. In addition in the house, there is a washing machine and Wifi connection. The local youth who usually visit the club are looking forward to welcoming you and getting to know international volunteers. Your group of volunteers will be responsible for grocery shopping and cooking together. The food will be bought with camp budget and everybody will take turns for cooking and cleaning. In order to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, we encourage volunteers to reduce meat and try more sustainable dishes.
Please, try and arrive at Heilsbronn train station between 1pm and 7pm on July 21. Find the best connection on the German railway company’s website: https://www.bahn.com/en
Code:VSS2404
Where:Deliblato
Number of volunteers:12
Language:English
Extra-Fee:0
Age:18+
Second oldest workcamp in YRS focuses on the nature protected reserve "Kraljevac" and what it has to offer to the locals and visitors. It is located right next to Deliblato sands, the largest sand area in Europe. During the day, volunteers will work on the path next to the lake; fixing the benches and other equipment; cleaning up the bank of the lake as well as setting up a fishing place. They will participate in educational workshops with local children. During leisure hours volunteers will have a chance to go on boat rides get to know surrounding nature.
The Sport Fishing Association “Deliblato Lake” was established in 2000 with the aim to promote sport fishing and nature conservation among a local community and young people in Deliblato. It manages Special Nature Reserve Kraljevac that was declared “the first category protected area of greatest national importance” by the Government of the Republic of Serbia in 2009. Since then, for the sixth time in its history the Sport Fishing Association Deliblato Lake along with the Young Researchers of Serbia are organizing an international volunteer eco camp. Young Researchers of Serbia (YRS) was founded in 1976. Our main aims are environmental protection and education, promotion of sustainable development, work with young people in an international context, promotion of scientific creativity and voluntarism and its values. Voluntary Service of Serbia is a volunteer exchange service center founded in 1990 as one of the sectors of YRS.
On the edge of Deliblatska Pescara (Deliblato Sands), in the midst of the Vojvodina plains, in the picturesque village of Deliblato, lies an oasis of peace Special Nature Reserve Kraljevac. Lake Kraljevac with its floating and permanently anchored islands, surrounding reedbeds, woodlands, meadows, and pastures supports a rich diversity of plant and animal life. Special Nature Reserve Kraljevac is a place of unique natural beauty where floating islands moved by strong winds across the surface of water continually change the surrounding landscape. Floating and permanently anchored islands are remnants of lowland peat bogs, globally one of the rarest and most threatened habitats, and represent one of Serbia’s last refuges of the relict plant community of Marsh Fern and Grey Willow. Volunteers will have a chance to explore the picturesque nature reserve in boats and also explore the oldest sand desert in Europe Deliblatska pescara.
All volunteers and camp leaders will be accommodated in the Education and Research Centre in Special Nature Reserve Kraljevac 2-bed, 3-bed and 5-bed rooms (linen included, sleeping bag is not required) with shared toilets and showers. Volunteers will be provided with a small kitchen with cooking facilities and groceries to cook for themselves.
Keep in mind that you will be working during the summer, appropriate clothes and sun protection are necessary, as well as a good mosquito repellent.
The closest towns to village Deliblato are Kovin (16 km), Pančevo (37 km), and Belgrade (58 km). You can reach Special Nature Reserve Kraljevac by bus from Belgrade to Kovin and then from Kovin to Deliblato. More details will be provided in the Infosheet.
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