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INEX-SDA
VOLUNTEER PROJECTS
CZECH REPUBLIC
2014
INEX-SDA VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2014
ABOUT INEX-SDA
INEX – Association of voluntary activities is a non-governmental not-for-profit organisation founded
in 1991 to carry out and support international voluntary work and intercultural education. We arrange
voluntary placements abroad for Czech volunteers and organise voluntary projects in our country for
incoming foreign volunteers. Annually we send nearly 800 volunteers abroad on long or short-term
projects and welcome 400 volunteers to the Czech Republic.
The mission of INEX-SDA is by organising international voluntary projects, educational programs
and campaigns to:
1. assist the development of a tolerant and open society and
2. encourage an active and responsible approach to the world around us both locally and globally
We create space in which especially (but not only) young people can gain new experience, expand
their skills and and develop their own views of the complexity of the world around them.
In various regions of the Czech Republic we organise voluntary projects and programs of social
integration, environmental education and rural development. The Prague office is focusing not only on
sending the volunteers abroad and coordination of voluntary projects in the Czech Republic but also
on development and intercultural education projects and campaigns (e.g. GLEN, Football for
Development, Volunteers’ Club within the project Young Europeans for Global Development). The
Brno office carries out mainly social programs for disadvantaged children and our offices in
Kostelecke Horky and Bile Karpaty work in environmental education and in supporting the revival
and maintenance of local traditions and crafts.
Values of INEX-SDA (principles we promote):
Volunteerism and using of own initiative
Direct experience and critical thinking
An understanding and respect of diversity
Responsibility and sustainable development
BASIC GENERAL INFORMATION FOR WORKCAMP PARTICIPANTS
Age limit: Minimum age is 18 years; if not stated differently, no maximum age limit
Duration of the projects: 10 - 19 days for short-term projects
Number of volunteers per project: 4 -15 for short-term projects
Project language: English
Working hours: Approximately 6 hours per day with 1-2 free days/week
Study part: According to the local possibilities excursions, discussions, workshops, guided tours or
public intercultural evenings are planned as part of each project. Thus INEX-SDA supports non-
formal (intercultural) learning in relation to the projects’ topics.
Insurance: INEX-SDA provides a very basic accident and liability insurance for the project
participants, covering the costs only for minor accidents and damages. INEX-SDA does not provide
any health insurance for the workcamp participants. We expect volunteers to arrange their own health
insurance and bring the necessary documents along with them. The volunteers cannot stay at the
workcamp without this insurance! We strongly advise volunteers to additionally arrange travel
insurance and bringing the necessary documents with them.
Other requirements:
No special knowledge or skills are required but enthusiasm and interest in the project is necessary. For
some projects we ask for a motivation letter, a certificate of good conduct and a medical declaration.
The motivation letter needs to be handed in with the application form. The certificate of good conduct
needs to be sent as a scan 4 weeks before the start of the project and brought by the volunteer to the
project. A form for the medical declaration will be sent to you after acceptance of the volunteer. Please
note the additional information in the project descriptions.
Camp leaders:
Our workcamps are led by one or two campleaders, who coordinate the everyday life in the group.
They co-operate with the local partners and facilitate decision-making in the group. Our camp leaders
are required to complete an intensive 3-day training especially designed for the camp leaders´ needs.
Reservations: Please note that your reservations finish on May 1st for all projects stating before July 1st and on June
1st for all project starting after July 1st. Do not hesitate to contact us for any inquiries regarding
infosheets, official invitation letters for your volunteers, information about placement and camps, etc.
Alliance Access 4 All Campaign
We welcome volunteers with fewer opportunities at our workcamps. Placement to the right project
will be based on volunteers' needs and the mutual cooperation between all the parties involved. We
use A4A tools.
We especially recommend these workcamps:
SDA 103 Volunteering in Dysina 9.6. - 23.6 ENVI/FEST 7 + 2 18+
SDA 202 Castle Kynzvart 19.7. - 2.8. ENVI/RENO 11 + 2 18+
SDA 203 Jewish Holesov 21.7. - 4.8. RENO/CULT 8 + 2 18+
CLASSIFICATION OF THE INEX-SDA VOLUNTARY PROJECTS
Our international short-term voluntary projects can be classified into four thematic groups:
1. Sustainable development of rural areas (project code starts with 1)
The projects take place in small rural communities and focus on the sustainable development of the
villages and the surrounding countryside. With their practical and often manual work the volunteers
support local municipalities and non-governmental organizations.
2. Conservation of cultural heritage (project code starts with 2)
The projects focus mainly on the preservation and renovation of historically significant objects such as
castles, historical cemeteries, churches and other monuments. The volunteers will get familiar with the
history of the Czech Republic. Through their practical work awareness for the importance to preserve
historically and culturally important sites is raised.
3. Supporting social projects (project code starts with 3)
The volunteers support various social projects which offer help to people facing social exclusion,
children and youth, the elderly, people with special needs and others. According to the needs of the
local partner, the volunteers do manual work (e.g. renovation, maintenance, construction work) or
work directly with the projects’ clients.
4. Ecological projects (project code starts with 4)
The projects aim at environmental protection and education towards an environment-friendly lifestyle.
The volunteers will do practical environmental work in natural preserves, forests, organic farms and
other environmentally important areas. Most of the work takes place outdoors such as renovation of
tourist trails, planting trees, gardening and scything meadows.
Workcamps 2014
on the map
INEX-SDA SHORT TERM VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2014
Code Name Date Type Vols+Leader
s Age
Special
information
SDA 101 Moravian Countryside Spring 25.4. - 7.5. ENVI/RENO 7 + 2 18+
SDA 103 Volunteering in Dysina 9.6. - 23.6 ENVI/FEST 7 + 2 18+
SDA 105 Foster the City 14.7. - 27.7. RENO/CONS 8 + 2 18+ ML needed
SDA 106 Moravian Countryside 20.7. - 4.8. ENVI/RENO 11 + 2 18-26
SDA 107 Volunteering in Region of living waters 3.8. - 16.8. RENO/ENVI 13 + 2 18+
SDA 109 Revive the park in Pilsen 18.9. - 30.9. ENVI 8 + 2 18+
SDA 111
SDA 201 Castle Grabstejn 14.7. - 27.7. RENO 10 + 2 18+
SDA 202 Castle Kynzvart 19.7. - 2.8. ENVI/RENO 11 + 2 18+
SDA 203 Jewish Holesov 21.7. - 4.8. RENO/CULT 8 + 2 18+
SDA 204 International Voluntary Academy Hartenberg 2.8. - 16.8. RENO/CULT 12 + 2 18+
SDA 301 Organic Farming at Camphill Community I 18.5. - 31.5. AGRI/RENO 10 + 2 18+
SDA 303 Organic Farming at Camphill Community II 6.7. - 19.7. AGRI/RENO 10 + 2 18+
SDA 304 Therapeutic Center Ledovec (Iceberg) 19.7. - 1.8. RENO/FEST 5 + 1 18+
SDA 305 One Flew Over the Swallow's Nest 20.7. - 2.8. RENO/ENVI 7+ 2 18+ ML needed
SDA 307 Organic Farming at Camphill Community III 27.7. - 9.8. AGRI/RENO 10 + 2 18+
SDA 310 Organic Farming at Camphill Community IV 17.8. - 30.8. AGRI/RENO 10 + 2 18+
SDA 402 New Forest 17.8. - 30.8. ENVI 14 + 2 18 -26
SDA 403 Preserve the unique landscape of Palava 2.8. - 16.8. ENVI 12 + 2 18-26
SDA 404 Back to nature 25.8. - 12.9. ENVI 12 + 2 18+
SDA 405 Nature and Natural Architecture in Jeseniky 22.7. - 6.8. ENVI/RENO 15 + 3 18-26
INEX-SDA SHORT TERM VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2014
1. Sustainable development of rural areas
SDA 101 Moravian countryside Spring
25.4 - 7.5 ENVI/RENO Vols 7 + 2 team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp will take place in the small Moravian village of Tvarozna Lhota, situated in
the White Carpathian Mountains, near to the Slovak border. The region is famous for its folk traditions
and its beautiful countryside. In the outskirts of the village, the local NGO “INEX-SDA Bile Karpaty”
runs a small centre for rural development and sustainability called Cottage Travicna. The centre also
hosts an outdoor museum with traditional cottages, some farm animals, a herb garden and traditional
fruit trees, showing how rural life in the mountains used to look like there in the past. Every year
several public events take place there.
Work: The work will be manual. Firstly, volunteers will work in the outdoor museum, mainly
repairing fences, making hay, cleaning, and weeding the herb garden. Secondly, volunteers will collect
herbs from the surrounding meadows, which will then be used for the production of herbal teas. At the
beginning of the workcamp (on 26th April) a small festival of typical fruit products called “Oskeruse”
will take place. The volunteers will help with the technical preparations of the event (i.e. installation of
an exhibition, cleaning up afterwards) and are invited to attend the celebration.
Study part: Apart from the celebration mentioned above, there could be other folkloric events during
the workcamp, such as erection of the maypole (central point of the village made of tall decorated
wood). There will be many opportunities to learn about local products, local farming, the history,
traditions and potential of the region.
Leisure time: Trips to the countryside and to folklore events, visits to touristic sights in the
surrounding towns and villages will take place.
Accommodation/Food: In a building in the very centre of the village. Volunteers will need to bring
their own sleeping bags and sleeping mats. Two small bathrooms are available. Please be prepared for
basic living conditions as the house is very small. Volunteers will prepare their meals together – a
small kitchen is available in the living area. Bring your favourite recipes.
Location: Tvarozna Lhota, Southern Moravia (bus stop in the village, next train stop Straznice and
Veseli nad Moravou)
SDA 103 Volunteering in Dysina
9.6 - 23.6 ENVI/FEST Vols 7 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The project is organized with the municipality of Dysina, a small village in Western Bohemia
not far from Pilsen. You will mainly support the community to improve the look of the village and
take care of the local green in parks and in other public places. You will also help to organize an
important cultural event in the village.
Work: The work will be mainly manual. Firstly, you will take care of the community green areas - so
you should be fond of gardening works (cutting bushes and grass, painting works, raking etc.).
Secondly you will help with some manual tasks that will be needed for the preparations and running of
a local festival “Folkloric afternoon” that will be held in Dysina and will be part of the International
Folkloric Festival Pilsen 2014. Thirdly, you can also meet local school children and prepare some
presentations about your country of origin and your culture for them. Bring something special from
home which could be suitable for such an activity (games, music, pictures, etc.).
Study part: Get familiar with the history of the region and visit some local craftsmen. It is also
possible to learn about the local remarkable church. Learn how to play golf, there will be a two-hour
lesson of golf provided for the volunteers in the nearby golf terrain.
Leisure time: Excursion to Pilsen (European Cultural Capital 2015). From 13th to 15th June Pilsen
will host the International Folkloric Festival with many Czech and foreign dance and music groups.
Trips to the surrounding countryside and visit of cultural and historical sights, swimming in nearby
lakes, campfire. The village will try to arrange some activities with the local population as well. You
will also have a chance to organize a film evening in the attic of the local church.
Accommodation/Food: You will sleep in a local centre for children on mattresses. Please bring a
sleeping bag, mattresses will be provided. It is possible to use the internet for free and wash your
clothes. Please be prepared for less comfort – the room for sleeping is quite small and you will take a
shower in the cabins of a local football pitch about 10 mins of walk from the accommodation. Some of
the meals will be served in the local school canteen, some will be prepared by the group. Vegetarian
diet is possible.
Location: Dysina (about 1500 inhabitants) is located at about 10 km from Pilsen.
SDA 105 Foster the City
14.7 - 27.7 RENO/CONS Vols 8 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+ ML
Project: The project is held in Pilsen, European Capital of Culture 2015. Public benefit organisation
“Pilsen 2015” is responsible for implementing the European Capital of Culture project, which mainly
consists of programme activities and cultural sustainability activities in Pilsen and Pilsen region. The
organisation both supports existing projects and creates some of its own. One of these is “Foster the
City” project which deals with the state of the public space and its affordable enhancement. Local
people have an opportunity to demonstrate their ideas – to show what is wrong, what they miss, what
they would like to participate in.
Work: Your task will be improving derelict places of Pilsen. This year we will mainly focus on the site
of former public river bath. You hardly find any traces of the wharfs and bathhouses there nowadays
but people still pass through the place on their walks along the river. The only larger remnant is an
original bath restaurant which now serves as an accommodation for people who passed through a drug
addiction treatment. They might help us at work too.
You will clean the place from shrubs and litters, restore preserved constructions, build new
constructions from wood and other materials. The point is to make the place attractive for the by-
passers. And you will celebrate the effort – by throwing a concert or a neighbours party.
Study part: You will have an opportunity to go for an excursion to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery and for
a trip to a spectacular town in Pilsen region. You will be also invited to organize an evening or
afternoon event for the public at the work site.
Leisure time: See some interesting Pilsen sights – medieval city centre, historical underground,
Techmania Science Centre and do other activities such as visiting festivals, cinemas, sports facilities,
restaurants, typical local pubs, cafés, tearooms and clubs, galleries, museums and ZOO woods and
lakes around the city, scenic countryside.
Accommodation/Food: You will stay in a scout clubhouse. Please bring your own sleeping bag and a
camping mat. The clubhouse is equipped as follows: hot and cold water, 3 toilets, 1 shower room, a
kitchen with gas stove, some dishes and other cooking utensils. The clubhouse is located by the river
Radbuza near the work site. Walking distance to the city centre is 2.1 km and to the nearest tram stop
650 m. Warm (vegetarian friendly) lunches will be provided at the work-site or other place in the city.
Breakfast and dinner will be prepared by yourselves.
Location: City of Pilsen (www.pilsen.eu) is the capital of West Bohemia. With 167 000 inhabitants
and 15 000 university students it is a significant cultural, business and industrial centre, internationally
famous mostly due to the products of Pilsner Urquell and Škoda factory.
Note: Your work will be mostly hard manual labour. But don't worry - it will be worth it! We look for
people who believe in improving the city by their own hands, who find fun and pleasure in doing so
and who can also spice it up: if you cook, sing or can amuse others, it will be useful for the evenings…
We certainly do not want any moaners! :)
SDA 106 Moravian countryside
20.7 - 4.8. ENVI/RENO Vols 11 + 2 Team leaders Age 18-26
Project: The workcamp will take place in Tvarozna Lhota, a small village in the White Carpathian
Mountains. Here “INEX-SDA White Carpathian Mountains” supports rural development and the
education towards a sustainable way of life. It offers educational free-time activities to young people
and operates an ecological open-air centre called “Cottage Travicna” with an ethnographical
exposition on life in the mountains. The organization also supports the production and consumption of
regional goods, such as herbal teas, goat cheese, lamb meat and many more.
Work: Most of the work will take place at the ecological areal „Cottage Travicna“.During the first
week the volunteers will help with manual work aiming at maintenance of the area. The work can
include for example reparation of fences for animals and gardens, reparation of play structures for
children, maintenance of the surrounding area (repairing tourist trails, care for an arboretum of local
woods and a herbal garden, care for little orchard of traditional fruits). These tasks will vary according
to the current needs. During the second week, volunteers will help to prepare the event „Ethnosalas“(a
celebration for local children). During the celebration, volunteers will assist in implementing different
activities for children. If the weather conditions allow, volunteers will also collect herbs in the
surrounding meadows and in the nearby forest, herbs which will be used for the production of organic
teas. Please note that the weather can be sometimes very hot and that you may have to work in the sun.
Bring protective creams and a hat.
Study part: A guided excursion to the biosphere reserve „NPR Certoryje“, a guided tour along the
nature-trail „Oskeruse“ (traditional regional fruit), a trip to the Bata Canal and sustainable tourism are
planned. Learn more about local products, organic farming, the history and natural potential of the
region. An international cooking evening with the local youth and workshops on pottery and batik
with traditional colours are planned. The program includes a trip to Bratislava (Slovakia).
Leisure time: Trips to various sights of the regional cities of Straznice, Uherske Hradiste and Skalice;
daily afternoon-program, including games and activities in the outdoor adventure park in the cottage
Travicna and trips to the close-by countryside and sights; swimming in the lake.
Accommodation/Food: Volunteers will be accommodated in a building in the very centre of the
village. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Two small bathrooms are
available. Please be prepared for basic living conditions as the house is very small. The volunteers will
prepare their meals together – a small kitchen is available in the living area. Bring your national
recipes.
Location: Tvarozna Lhota (bus stop in the village, next train stop Straznice). The nearby bigger cities
are Straznice (5 km distance) and Uherske Hradiste (30 km). The region is famous for its folk
traditions and beautiful countryside.
SDA 107 Volunteering in Region of living waters
3.8. - 16.8. RENO/ENVI Vols 13 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp is located in the Carlsbad region, Western Bohemia, also called “region of
living waters” thanks to its many water springs and spa towns. It is organized by the Association of
municipalities Slavkovsky les dealing with sustainable rural development, protection of the landscape,
preservation of regional cultural sights, organic farming and ecotourism. It will take place in several
communities of the region depending on which municipalities of the Association will get involved.
Part of the activities will take place in Becov, a beautiful historical town with a famous castle.
Work: The work will be manual: You will help to preserve the local natural and cultural heritage
including the historical botanic garden in Becov. Your work includes to plant trees and other plants,
cut grass, clean, help with the maintenance of the touristic infrastructure and natural trails. You will do
some adjustments of sacred buildings. You could also help on an organic farm. The tasks can change
according to current needs of the communities involved and the weather conditions. Take suitable
working clothes, good working boots and rain-gear.
Study part: Guided tours to regional historical and cultural sights such as castles and monasteries,
excursions with a lecturer to the protected countryside surrounding Becov, discovering local folkloric
festivals and traditions and non-formal meetings with the locals.
Leisure time: You can visit famous spa towns in the region (e.g. Carlsbad/Karlovy Vary or Marianske
lazne), do some sports and go hiking in the surrounding countryside. It is possible to have a campfire,
go swimming and on bike trips, try horse riding and visit some local cultural events. Bring also some
of your favourite local recipes and games.
Accommodation/Food: Premises of the local football club in a small village of Otrocin in a big room
on the floor. Mattresses will be provided but please bring your own sleeping bag! There is a common
room for eating (but not a kitchen!), a shower and two toilets. Please be ready for basic conditions.
The food will be partly prepared by yourselves (breakfasts, snacks) and partly provided by the local
partners (lunches and dinners).
Location: different communities of the microregion Slavkovsky les, Western Bohemia and a town of
Becov nad Teplou (the site of the botanical garden).
Note: Bring warm clothes in case of bad weather and a swimsuit.
SDA 109 Revive the park in Pilsen
18.9. - 30.9. ENVI Vols 8 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp will be held in Pilsen, European Capital of Culture 2015. Public benefit
organisation “Pilsen 2015” is responsible for implementing the European Capital of Culture project,
which mainly consists of programme activities and cultural sustainability activities in Pilsen and
Pilsen region. The organisation both supports existing projects and creates some of its own. One of
these is “The West-Bohemian Islands of Land Art” which is aimed at the unique St. George’s Park.
The idea of the park in the future is to develop it with minimal interventions into landscape and with
respect of the fauna and flora and of the archaeological sites in place. In 2015, the park will host
residence program for young artists from all over Europe. The workcamp is organized also in
cooperation with the NGO Desop (Voluntary ecological association for the protection of birds in
Pilsen).
Work: The aim of the workcamp is to prepare the area of the park for the planned artistic residential
program. For this reason, volunteers will remove some of the bushes and other vegetation, burn
branches, collect rubbish and maintain pedestrian paths. The work will be done outdoors, in a vast
park area. It will not be very physically demanding. You will do just basic maintenance work. Please
bring solid shoes, long trousers and long sleeves for work in the bushes, a hat to be protected against
the sun and also some warm clothes in case of bad weather (raincoat and boots).
Study part: Get to know the past, present and future of this amazing part of Pilsen where two rivers
meet. You will have a guided tour of the St George’s church situated in the park and of the whole park
itself, then you can visit the nearby Rescue station of animals and you can take part in a thematic
program of practical nature protection including a demonstration of the capture and ringing of birds.
On 19th – 20th September, there will be a volunteer’s festival in Pilsen called “Angel Fest”. You can
also prepare a small neighbour’s party in the park for and with the inhabitants of the nearby houses
during the second weekend of the workcamp.
Leisure time: In your free time, you can go for walks in the surroundings of the park (e.g. the hill of
Chlum which is an archaeological site with a nice view of the landscape), you can go for a canoe ride
on the Berounka river from the city centre to the outskirts and of course you can visit many other
historical and cultural attractions of the city of Pilsen.
Accommodation/Food: You will stay in a scout clubhouse attached to the St George’s church in the
park where you will work. The clubhouse is equipped as follows: a kitchen with gas stove, two
common rooms and a spacious attic for sleeping (including mattresses). Please bring your own warm
sleeping bag! There is a local heater (for wood) downstairs, a toilet and a well with non-drinkable
water. Drinkable water will be brought by the local partner in barrels. There is no shower inside but
there will be an outdoor shower arranged. Please be prepared for basic conditions! Walking distance to
the city centre is over 3.4 km and the nearest bus stop is 10 min of walk away. You will prepare your
own meals in the kitchen of the clubhouse.
Location: St George’s park in Pilsen
Note: We are searching for volunteers with a good relation to nature.
2. Conservation of cultural heritage
SDA 111 Old brewery Chric
19.8. - 01.9. RENO Vols 10 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The project takes place in a 16th century brewery situated in the small village of Chric. Beer
had been produced there until the beginning of the WWII. The complex has fallen into ruin since that
time. It is an inspiring and vivid area, though, which is being renovated by the local NGO Propolis
with the help of workcamps. The brewery has been turned into an educational centre focused on
history and local handicrafts as well as a social and cultural centre. There is also a Museum of Daily
Life hosting interactive exhibition on traditional rural life. Propolis is going to establish a social
enterprise producing beer and employing people with mental and physical disabilities – this venture
will be officially launched at the end of this year’s workcamp in the occasion of the traditional local
festival “Kric Fest”.
Work: The work is mainly manual: you will do different renovation works in the brewery (carrying
material, digging, building a stone wall, etc.) and cultivate the garden. The work will be physically
very demanding. You will also help to prepare the local music and theatre festival “Kric fest” and the
opening ceremony for the newly renovated brewery. You will create a performance which you will
present together at the festival (the concept is up to your fantasy and ability). We are looking for
motivated volunteers who are not afraid of physically demanding work and who are interested in
theatre, music, dance and creative art. Bring warm and waterproof clothes and working clothes that
can get dirty or damaged. You will need very good working shoes!! You will work at the weekends,
but get at least two days off.
Study part: Get some knowledge about the history of the place, the history and the future of the
brewery and the way beer used to be produced here. Learn about traditional rural life from the local
Museum of daily life run by Propolis. There is also a possibility to visit the Museum of beer in Pilsen.
We can arrange a visit of a traditional local farmer, too. The program of the workcamp will include an
intercultural evening where everybody will introduce their country and you will have a chance to see a
documentary film about the history of Czech country.
Leisure time: Trips to the surroundings: ruins of the castles Krasov, Krakovec, the nature preserve
Krivoklatsko, the castle Krivoklat and the muzeum Marianska Tynice. It will be possible to use local
car for trips. The village has a football ground; 5-10 km from the village there is a swimming pool and
a river. As a part of the workcamp a football or volleyball match with local youth can be organized.
You can also take part in local village festivities.
Accommodation/Food: In the living area of the brewery in three separate rooms. Bring a sleeping bag
and a sleeping mat. You will have at your disposal a bathroom with a shower with hot water and a
washing machine. There is also a common room. The conditions are still very basic because of the
reconstruction (dry toilets outside). The local partner prepares the food with occasional help of the
volunteers. Take some crucial ingredients or local products to prepare your traditional food for an
intercultural evening.
Location: The village of Chric (about 200 inhabitants) in the Western part of Bohemia. It is very
isolated and the connection by public transport is poor. In the village you can find a shop, a post office
and a church. The locality is not very populated and has beautiful nature.
Note: A motivation letter sent with the application form is strictly required (max. 1 page A4, please
state your motivation to participate in the workcamp, your experience with manual work, what you
can contribute to the festival and if you have some ideas for the performance).
SDA 201 Castle Grabstejn
14.7. - 27.7. RENO Vols 10 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: Grabstejn is a former medieval castle which was later rebuilt as a renaissance chateau. It was
severely damaged under the communist regime but has gone through reconstruction since. Now it is an
example of care for historical heritage presenting the life of high society through centuries to the wide
public. The castle visitors are offered classical guided tours but also different cultural and educational
activities. The castle is located in Northern Bohemia and it is surrounded by a beautiful mountainous
countryside which is perfect for hiking.
Work: The nature of your work depends on what is actually needed to do according to castle
revitalisation plan. This includes cutting grass and wood, removing of invasive vegetation in the forest
surrounding the castle, some basic renovation of paths, walls and balustrades, cleaning inside the
castle, etc. The work is manual and physically very demanding. Volunteers will need working clothes
that can get dirty or damaged and good solid shoes.
Study part: Learn more about the castle and meet local castle staff.
Leisure time: You can go hiking in the beautiful hilly countryside surrounding the castle and climb a
famous mountain Jested (1012 m) with a hotel on the top representing typical socialist architecture.
It’s possible to go swimming in a nearby lake (don’t forget your swimsuit) or play some games and
music (please take some musical instruments with you if you can play on them). The nearest city is
Liberec with a zoo and a botanical garden. It is possible to visit a regional brewery and many other
interesting sights.
Accommodation/Food: You will sleep directly at the castle in one big room on foam mattresses or
beds. Therefore you will need to bring a sleeping bag. There is a toilet and a shower with hot water.
Next to the bedroom there is a small kitchen where you will prepare the meals by yourselves, so please
bring some interesting recipes with you.
Location: Castle Grabstejn in the small village of Chotyne (860 people) in Northern Bohemia. The
nearest town is Hradek nad Nisou (about 7500 people) which is connected with Chotyne by public
transport.
Note: This camp is especially suitable for hard-working volunteers who also like nature, hiking and
want to discover closely the castle.
SDA 202 Castle Kynzvart
19.7. - 2.8. ENVI/RENO Vols 11 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp takes place at the site of the famous castle Kynzvart which belonged to the
councillor Metternich in the 19th century. The neo-classical castle has a charming park and an
amazing history going back to the 13th century. It is situated in the westernmost corner of the Czech
Republic, near the spa towns Karlovy Vary - Marianske Lazne - Frantiskovy Lazne.
Work: The volunteers will work in the castle park and in the surrounding forest park. They will mainly
perform maintenance and gardening tasks such as cleaning paths, weeding, removing fallen branches
and leaves, making wood etc.
Study part: Get to know the history of the place while taking part in a guided tour of the Castle
Kynzvart. We plan an intercultural evening, so take some pictures and music that represents you and
some interesting recipes with you.
Leisure time: Different kinds of sports, swimming in the nearby ponds, trips to the nearby spa towns
and the surrounding countryside. Take some games for the evenings after work.
Accommodation/Food: In the castle area in a house. Take your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. A
bathroom and a small kitchen are available. The volunteers will prepare their meals on their own.
Location: Lazne Kynzvart (area of castle Kynzvart), about 11 km from the well-known spa town
Marianske Lazne.
SDA 203 Jewish Holesov
21.7. - 4.8. RENO/CULT Vols 8 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The project takes place in Holesov, a small Moravian town, known for its large pre-war
Jewish community. The community was wiped-out during World War II and has only very few
members today. The workcamp supports the work of the Culture centre of Holesov which maintains
the local Jewish cemetery and other Jewish monuments in the town and organizes the festival of
Jewish culture called “Jewish Culture Week” which will take place during the workcamp.
Work: The volunteers will work on the local Jewish cemetery and in the synagogue (about 90% of the
working time) where they will help to maintain outdoor areas. The work can include cleaning of
pavements, liquidating of invasive plant, painting, grinding off, etc. Furthermore, they will help with
the technical preparations of the festival “Jewish Culture Week” which is taking place in Holesov
during the workcamp (10% of the working time). Bring suitable working clothes with you. The work
might be physically demanding, weekends are usually working days (because of the festival) but you
will get days off during the week.
Study part: You can learn more about Jewish culture and visit concerts, performances and films during
the festival. Visit to local monuments.
Leisure time: Trips to the surroundings, free entrance to cultural activities organized by the local
cultural centre, free access to the local swimming-pool.
Accommodation/Food: In the former gamekeeper’s lodge belonging to the park of a local castle.
Please bring a sleeping bag. The participants prepare their own meals.
Location: Holesov, a middle-sized town with around 12.000 people in the south-east of the Czech
Republic
Note: Volunteers interested in Jewish culture are especially welcome!
SDA 204 International Voluntary Academy Hartenberg
2.8. - 16.8. RENO/CULT Vols 12 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp is organized in cooperation with the local NGO Hartenberg which supports the
development of volunteering in Western Bohemia and takes care of the remains of castle Hartenberg.
The castle was purposely set on fire several times in the past and is now in a very bad state. With the
help of volunteers it is being gradually reconstructed. Today, parts of the castle (mainly the big
courtyard) are being used for cultural, ecological and educational activities. In 2010, the International
Voluntary Academy of Hartenberg was established as the idea of volunteers. Its main task is to spread
volunteering activities in the region as well as organize international projects together with the NGO
Hartenberg.
Work: The work will be varied and adjusted to the abilities and preferences of volunteers but also
according to current needs of the partner organization. Firstly, volunteers will be helping with the
preparations of a traditional event, the outdoor Holly mass (15th August), which takes place in the
courtyard of the castle. The work will include cleaning and other technical and manual tasks.
Secondly, volunteers will be working according to a concept of the “voluntary academy” – this work
can range from creative and artistic activities to manual work at the castle and in the garden. Creative
part can include making info panels, preparing materials and presentations, writing articles for the
website or artistic activities (drawing, ceramics, etc.). The manual part will be most of the time
physically demanding and can include reconstruction and renovation works (with stones, bricks and
other materials) and gardening works (cutting and collecting grass, arrangement of the ground, etc.).
Study part: Discover the history and current intercultural atmosphere of the Hartenberg castle. It will
be possible to organize intercultural evenings so please bring some materials that represent your
culture (music and musical instruments, films, pictures, recipes, small objects, etc.). You can also be
part of a workshop on sustainable practices.
Leisure time: You can go hiking in the mountainous countryside, visit some of the famous spa-towns
in the region, go canoeing, do some sport activities and play music. During the weekends there will be
time to go on whole-day trips, too.
Accommodation/Food: The accommodation will be very basic; please don’t expect any comfort! You
will sleep in a cottage near the castle in two common rooms. Take a sleeping bag and a sheet to cover
the mattress with you. The toilet and showers will be provided in a container that is located in the
courtyard. The participants will cook some meals for themselves in a small kitchen and some meals
will be prepared by a cook. Bring your local recipes.
Location: The castle ruin is situated near the village Hrebeny in western Bohemia and other villages in
the region.
Note: We are looking for flexible and sociable volunteers with an interest in cultural heritage and
nature. The workcamp can suit both people with artistic skills and also people who like manual work.
The focus of the work will depend a lot on your own abilities and interest. Please take good walking
boots, warm cloths and raingear with you.
3. Supporting social projects
SDA 301 Organic Farming at Camphill Community I
18.5. - 31.5. AGRI/RENO Vols 10 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp takes place in the village of Ceske Kopisty where the local NGO Camphill
Ceske Kopisty runs a family-like community centre both for people with (mental) disabilities and for
those without any kind of disability who work and live together. The Camphill community in Ceske
Kopisty is inspired by the Camphill movement and the ideas of anthroposophy. Besides therapeutic
activities for the clients (including pottery and textile workshops), the community runs an organic
farm focused on vegetable production and based on the rules of bio-dynamic farming. Camphill has
recently set up a social entreprise which helps to sustain the community centre by selling agricultural
products.
Work: The organic farm of Camphill is very dependent on manual work and it would be impossible to
maintain the agricultural project without the voluntary work. The volunteers will perform two different
kinds of manual work. Firstly, they will be helping on the organic farm - planting, watering, weeding,
harvesting, cleaning, storing. Secondly, some minor construction and renovation works will be done
(e.g. building and demolishing of walls, cleaning bricks, reparations). Bring good working clothes and
shoes.
Study part: Lectures and discussions about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic farm-
ing. It is possible to visit the nearby Terezin Memorial at the location of the former concentration
camp for Jews – the Terezin Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques (making carpets,
wooden jewellery or special natural soaps) can be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns (a historical town of Litomerice, Usti nad
Labem with a brewery and a zoological garden and Zernoseky with a wine cellar) and visit some
summer cultural events. Then you can go hiking in the nearby beautiful hills, swimming in the river
just behind the centre, have boat trips, do some sports (football, volleyball, table tennis) and go on a
cycling tour along the river...
Accommodation/Food: In a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag! One shower with hot water
and a toilet will be available. There is also a kitchen – products for cooking will be provided by the
local partner. Volunteers will prepare their breakfasts and dinners on their own, for the lunches they
will assist the community cook with the preparation of the meal.
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental health issues, smoking and the
consumption of alcohol and drugs are forbidden within the community area. Please respect night-time
peace and the privacy of the clients’ accommodation.
SDA 303 Organic Farming at Camphill Community II
6.7. - 19.7. AGRI/RENO Vols 10 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp takes place in the village of Ceske Kopisty where the local NGO Camphill
Ceske Kopisty runs a family-like community centre both for people with (mental) disabilities and for
those without any kind of disability who work and live together. The Camphill community in Ceske
Kopisty is inspired by the Camphill movement and the ideas of anthroposophy. Besides therapeutic
activities for the clients (including pottery and textile workshops), the community runs an organic
farm focused on vegetable production and based on the rules of bio-dynamic farming. Camphill has
recently set up a social entreprise which helps to sustain the community centre by selling agricultural
products.
Work: The organic farm of Camphill is very dependent on manual work and it would be impossible to
maintain the agricultural project without the voluntary work. The volunteers will perform two different
kinds of manual work. Firstly, they will be helping on the organic farm - planting, watering, weeding,
harvesting, cleaning, storing. Secondly, some minor construction and renovation works will be done
(e.g. building and demolishing of walls, cleaning bricks, reparations). Bring good working clothes and
shoes.
Study part: Lectures and discussions about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic farm-
ing. It is possible to visit the nearby Terezin Memorial at the location of the former concentration
camp for Jews – the Terezin Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques (making carpets,
wooden jewellery or special natural soaps) can be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns (a historical town of Litomerice, Usti nad
Labem with a brewery and a zoological garden and Zernoseky with a wine cellar) and visit some
summer cultural events. Then you can go hiking in the nearby beautiful hills, swimming in the river
just behind the centre, have boat trips, do some sports (football, volleyball, table tennis) and go on a
cycling tour along the river...
Accommodation/Food: In a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag! One shower with hot water
and a toilet will be available. There is also a kitchen – products for cooking will be provided by the
local partner. Volunteers will prepare their breakfasts and dinners on their own, for the lunches they
will assist the community cook with the preparation of the meal.
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental health issues, smoking and the
consumption of alcohol and drugs are forbidden within the community area. Please respect night-time
peace and the privacy of the clients’ accommodation.
SDA 304 Therapeutic Center Ledovec (Iceberg)
19.7. - 1.8. RENO/FEST Vols 5 + 1 Team Leader Age 18+
Project: Ledovec is a non-governmental organization offering support to people with psychiatric
diseases or mental health handicaps. For their clients it works as a “rural training home” and assists
them to keep or improve the quality of their everyday lives. As a part of the centre there is a big
garden and a farm with goats, sheep and chicken. The centre organizes a number of interesting
activities for the public as well. Since 2002 the centre has organized a voluntary project where
volunteers from the Czech Republic and from abroad work together with the centre’s therapists to
improve the area of an old parish house in the village Ledce where the centre is situated.
Work: The workcamp takes place in the Therapeutic centre when it is closed for the majority of the
clients. Volunteers help with the running of the centre at that time (taking care of the animals, the
garden and the house). They perform general cleaning of the house and assist at current reconstruction
work (reconstruction of the barn, walls, an outside area of the centre, painting). Take working clothes
and working boots. Part of the work is to help with the preparation and organisation of the “Traditional
Fair Celebration” – a cultural one-day event for the public (Sunday 27th July), where different
handicrafts are presented and various kinds of traditional fair entertainment will be seen. Volunteers
will have a chance to actively participate in the program of the celebration by preparing a small circus
performance.
Study part: Volunteers will receive an introductory lecture on the centre’s activities and principles of
the psychosocial support offered to the clients. During the project, the centre’s therapeutic workshops
will be open for you (weaving, bread making, candle workshop).
Leisure time: The centre will organize trips with their own minibus, often to cultural events in Pilsen –
Cultural Capital 2015 or other places of interest. For everyday time off after work the centre provides
joggling equipment, 5 bikes, 4 canoes and maps for trips to the surrounding countryside.
Accommodation/Food: In the main building in beds or on mattresses; bring a sleeping bag. Hot water,
one shower and three toilets are available. You will receive homemade food three times a day in the
centre (vegetarian dishes available). The volunteers will be involved in preparing the meals.
Location: The village Ledce, about 8 kilometres to the north-west from Pilsen (Plzen). In the village
you find Ledovec in the old parish house in the very centre of the village close to the church.
Note: The group will consist of 10 international volunteers – 5 from a partner organization of the
centre and 5 international volunteers that will be placed by INEX-SDA. There will be only one shower
for the group. The group will be responsible for itself and organize itself under the “supervision” of
the centre’s manager.
SDA 305 One Flew Over the Swallow's Nest
20.7. - 2.8. RENO/ENVI Vols 7+ 2 Team Leaders Age 18+ ML
Project: The project takes place in the little village of Vlastovicky (part of Opava) where the local
NGO HOLOS runs a therapeutic and educational centre. The aim and activities of HOLOS are
oriented towards the holistic approach to the human health. Its clients are mostly the inhabitants of
Opava and the surroundings – children, the youth and even the adults in hard life situations. The
association offers a wide range of activities: therapeutic, educational, self-cognitive and self-
experiential. Besides, HOLOS runs a school of dance (Latin-American, standard, sport and jazz
dances), organizes art workshops (art therapy) and a club of martial arts (traditional Japanese martial
arts of Iaidó and Jódó using arms).
Work: Volunteers will work in the centre HOLOS which is under reconstruction. It will be mainly
manual – they will perform minor construction and renovation works in the former barn (in the future,
there will be rooms for therapy, accommodation and a kitchen). Secondly, they will work in the
garden (digging, preparation of flower beds, planting of flowers, maintenance) and in the yard
(renovation of the pavement). It will be also possible to try and restore some historic furniture. Besides
the work in the centre HOLOS, part of the group will help with some works in the village of
Vlastovicky. This can include maintenance of the public green areas, planting of flowers, painting of
children’s playground, agriculture works on a farm or other tasks needed by the municipality at the
time.
Study part: Volunteers can learn about the holistic approach to human health and try different
meditation and relaxation techniques. There will be creative workshops prepared for volunteers –
dancing, arts and martial art. During the workcamp some international evenings are planned for the
local community – bring some interesting pictures, music or musical instruments and also traditional
recipes from your home to be able to introduce your culture to the other volunteers and local people.
Leisure time: You can spend free time by playing games, singing at the camp fire (musical instruments
are welcome), swimming, relaxation in the Indian sauna (sweatlodge) in the garden of the HOLOS
centre and making some trips in the surroundings. The nearby city of Opava offers a wide range of
activities (sights, museums, galleries, cinema, etc.). You can also visit some other regional sights
(Museum of Silesia – Holasovice, castles, the Slezska Harta Dam, Jeseniky Mountains, etc.). You can
also try horse riding on a nearby farm.
Accommodation/Food: In the centre HOLOS in several rooms on mattresses or in the garden in your
own tent (if you wish). There are two bathrooms with the shower and hot water. Bring your own
sleeping bag and a mattress (or your own tent if you want to sleep outside). You will eat home-made
food in the centre HOLOS (suitable also for vegetarians). The food will be prepared by the local
partner and you will assist. It will be possible to cook national specialities, bring some traditional
recipes from your country.
Location: The village of Vlastovicky is located about 4 km to the nort-west of Opava, near the border
on Poland. The seat of HOLOS is situated in a farmhouse which formerly served as a school. It is a
very little village but the centre of Opava is accessible within 20 minutes by bus.
Note: The group will be composed of 10 volunteers – 7 foreign and 3 local. In the HOLOS centre, it is
forbidden to smoke and drink alcohol. The workcamp is suitable for volunteers who are hard-working,
like arts and dogs (there are English cocker spaniels living in the centre in the close contact with the
residents). We require a short motivation letter!
SDA 307 Organic Farming at Camphill Community III
27.7. - 9.8. AGRI/RENO Vols: 10 + 2 team leaders Age: 18+
Project: The workcamp takes place in the village of Ceske Kopisty where the local NGO Camphill
Ceske Kopisty runs a family-like community centre both for people with (mental) disabilities and for
those without any kind of disability who work and live together. The Camphill community in Ceske
Kopisty is inspired by the Camphill movement and the ideas of anthroposophy. Besides therapeutic
activities for the clients (including pottery and textile workshops), the community runs an organic
farm focused on vegetable production and based on the rules of bio-dynamic farming. Camphill has
recently set up a social entreprise which helps to sustain the community centre by selling agricultural
products.
Work: The organic farm of Camphill is very dependent on manual work and it would be impossible to
maintain the agricultural project without the voluntary work. The volunteers will perform two different
kinds of manual work. Firstly, they will be helping on the organic farm - planting, watering, weeding,
harvesting, cleaning, storing. Secondly, some minor construction and renovation works will be done
(e.g. building and demolishing of walls, cleaning bricks, reparations). Bring good working clothes and
shoes.
Study part: Lectures and discussions about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic
farming. It is possible to visit the nearby Terezin Memorial at the location of the former concentration
camp for Jews – the Terezin Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques (making carpets,
wooden jewellery or special natural soaps) can be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns (a historical town of Litomerice, Usti nad
Labem with a brewery and a zoological garden and Zernoseky with a wine cellar) and visit some
summer cultural events. Then you can go hiking in the nearby beautiful hills, swimming in the river
just behind the centre, have boat trips, do some sports (football, volleyball, table tennis) and go on a
cycling tour along the river...
Accommodation/Food: In a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag! One shower with hot water
and a toilet will be available. There is also a kitchen – products for cooking will be provided by the
local partner. Volunteers will prepare their breakfasts and dinners on their own, for the lunches they
will assist the community cook with the preparation of the meal.
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental health issues, smoking and the
consumption of alcohol and drugs are forbidden within the community area. Please respect night-time
peace and the privacy of the clients’ accommodation.
SDA 310 Organic Farming at Camphill Community IV
17.8. - 30.8. AGRI/RENO Vols 10 + 2 Team leaders Age 18+
Project: The workcamp takes place in the village of Ceske Kopisty where the local NGO Camphill
Ceske Kopisty runs a family-like community centre both for people with (mental) disabilities and for
those without any kind of disability who work and live together. The Camphill community in Ceske
Kopisty is inspired by the Camphill movement and the ideas of anthroposophy. Besides therapeutic
activities for the clients (including pottery and textile workshops), the community runs an organic
farm focused on vegetable production and based on the rules of bio-dynamic farming. Camphill has
recently set up a social entreprise which helps to sustain the community centre by selling agricultural
products.
Work: The organic farm of Camphill is very dependent on manual work and it would be impossible to
maintain the agricultural project without the voluntary work. The volunteers will perform two different
kinds of manual work. Firstly, they will be helping on the organic farm - planting, watering, weeding,
harvesting, cleaning, storing. Secondly, some minor construction and renovation works will be done
(e.g. building and demolishing of walls, cleaning bricks, reparations). Bring good working clothes and
shoes.
Study part: Lectures and discussions about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic farm-
ing. It is possible to visit the nearby Terezin Memorial at the location of the former concentration
camp for Jews – the Terezin Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques (making carpets,
wooden jewellery or special natural soaps) can be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns (a historical town of Litomerice, Usti nad
Labem with a brewery and a zoological garden and Zernoseky with a wine cellar) and visit some
summer cultural events. Then you can go hiking in the nearby beautiful hills, swimming in the river
just behind the centre, have boat trips, do some sports (football, volleyball, table tennis) and go on a
cycling tour along the river...
Accommodation/Food: In a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag! One shower with hot water
and a toilet will be available. There is also a kitchen – products for cooking will be provided by the
local partner. Volunteers will prepare their breakfasts and dinners on their own, for the lunches they
will assist the community cook with the preparation of the meal.
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental health issues, smoking and the
consumption of alcohol and drugs are forbidden within the community area. Please respect night-time
peace and the privacy of the clients’ accommodation.
4. Ecological projects
SDA 401 Eco Centre Horni Marsov
137. - 27.7. ENVI Vols: 14 + 2 team leaders Age: 18 +
Project: The workcamp will take place in the small town Horni Marsov in the Krkonose mountains.
The local partner is the Centre for environmental education called SEVER. SEVER is focused on
practical nature protection and environmental education. They promote responsible behavior towards
nature and the Earth and among the people themselves. They cooperate with primary and high schools
and organize education camps for students and seminars for their teachers. They also organize educa-
tional and cultural events for the public. In 2013 the reconstruction of baroque parish in Horni Marsov
was finished. Nowadays it hosts the eco centre called DOTEK (TOUCH – meaning Tradition, Out-
doors and Culture House) which is mostly built using natural materials and where most of the educa-
tional programs are taking place.
Work: The work will be physically demanding. Volunteers will work mainly in the eco centre
TOUCH or in the surroundings and will do the following activities: e.g. preparation of woods for heat-
ing of the eco centre during winter, collecting woods from the forest, storing woods near the place of
eco centre, gardening, hay harvesting and cutting the grass. They will also help with maintenance and
renovation of the eco centre – cleaning and demolition work, painting the walls, etc. The area of the
mountains has quite a cold climate, even in summer and it often rains so it is necessary to have good
waterproof shoes, raincoat and warm clothes.
Study part: Volunteers will have the chance to meet the local inhabitants. During the workcamp, there
will be also a camp for children (age 7 till 10) taking place. Volunteers will help with cooking and
preparation meals for children. It is possible to have some program together as well. We especially
welcome participants who play some musical instrument or who have any other artistic skills. An in-
ternational dinner with local community is also planned. It will be nice if you can bring some special
ingredients from your country and cook traditional meals for them.
Leisure time: There are many possibilities how to enjoy your free time while discovering the nature
and other sights. You can try to go down an educational path and discover the plants and animals.
Besides, Krkonose are very popular for mountain hiking. The highest peak of the Czech Republic,
Snezka (1602 m), is situated nearby. It is possible to have an excursion into an old underground mine
or to a fortress.
Accomodation/Food: In the eco centre TOUCH. You will sleep in beds in two big rooms (each one for
seven people). In case you want, you can bring your own tent and sleeping bed – it is possible to sleep
outside in the garden. You will have meals with the rest of the people working in the eco centre. The
local cook will prepare the meals from local supplies and every day, two different pairs of volunteers
will be asked to help in the kitchen.
Location: Horni Marsov (about 1000 inhabitants) in the Krkonose Mountains (Giant Mountains),
Eastern Bohemia. It is a mountainous area with a cold climate and beautiful nature.
Note: The workcamp is suitable for volunteers who like nature and mountains and are not afraid of
manual work. Musical instrument are welcome.
SDA 402 New Forest
17.8. - 30.8. ENVI Vols: 14 + 2 team leaders Age: 18 - 26
Project: The project is organized in cooperation with the local NGO Cmelak - Friends of Nature
Society whose activities are focused on the support of a sustainable way of life, practical nature
protection and environmental education. The goal of their projects is to restore the natural woods on
specific pieces of land and to save endangered tree species. They also maintain wetlands. The
workcamp takes place on one of those pieces of land and in the wetlands in a mountainous area at the
foot of the Jizerske Mountains which are situated in the North of Bohemia, close to the Polish border.
Work: This year, volunteers will work in two different localities – in the forestlands and in the
wetlands. Firstly, you will be helping to restore the woodland and allow the growth of a mixed forest
which should resemble to the natural state of a forest. The main part of your work will take place in
the tree nurseries and will include preparation and weeding of beds, planting of seedlings, building of
small fences, setting up of individual protection elements. Secondly, you will help with the
maintenance of the wetlands (cutting of grass, cutting of reed followed by raking; removing of reed
and other plants from water pools; cutting out of wood). The work will be manual and physically
demanding. Be prepared to work outdoors, in wet areas, under all types of weather (rain, wind…).
Waterproof clothes (with long sleeves and long trousers), a raincoat and rubber boots are necessary.
Study part: During several evenings on the weekdays, lectures, presentations and workshops on
ecological topics including an excursion to protected forest lands will take place. The local NGO will
suggest the topics of those activities in advance to the team-leaders and volunteers (i.e. forest-
management in the past and today, the idea behind the “New forest” project etc.). You will also
prepare activities with/for the local community such as international breakfast on a Sunday morning.
The project includes a trip to the city Ceska Lipa as well.
Leisure time: You can go hiking in the beautiful surrounding landscape, visit castles and climb the
Jested - the highest peak in the region. The city of Liberec, where you will be accommodated during
part of the project, offers many possibilities to enjoy culture or do different kinds of sport. Trips to
nearby towns and other interesting sites are possible.
Accommodation/Food: Volunteers will stay in two different places depending on where they will
work. During the work in the forest, you will be in a dormitory at the outskirts of Liberec. For the
work in the wetlands you will move to a smaller town (probably Jablonne v Podjestedi) where you
will be in a hostel. Both accommodations will have a bathroom with showers, a kitchen and a dining
room. Bring a sleeping bag as you will sleep on beds without linen! You will prepare your meals on
your own. You are invited to prepare traditional meals from your country. Bring some special
ingredients that might be hard to get abroad.
Location: Liberec and other areas of the Jizerske Mountains in the north of Bohemia. You will use
mini-buses to get to the place of work in the surrounding forests.
SDA 403 Preserve the unique landscape of Palava
2.8. - 16.8. ENVI Vols: 12 + 2 team leaders Age: 18 - 26
Project: The workcamp takes place in the Nature Protection Area of Palava in Southern Moravia close
to the Austrian border. The project is dedicated to the preservation of the unique landscape of Palava
and will run in close cooperation with the local „Centre of Ecological Education“.
Work: Volunteers will work at different places of the Nature Protection Area Palava, mostly in those
parts, which are particularly protected as nature reserves and which have the character of steppe. The
aim is to maintain and clean the area thus contributing to practical nature protection. The work will be
manual: raking and removing invasive plants, maintenance of some public areas (such as weeding and
collection of garbage). Furthermore, volunteers will help several days with the maintenance of a local
historical Jewish cemetery (one of the most-interesting and oldest in the country), this work will
consist mainly of raking and liquidation of plants and collecting of stones.
Study part: Several excursions and lectures on environmental protection and a presentation about the
former Jewish community in Mikulov are planned. Besides, you can take part in handicraft
workshops.
Leisure time: The region is ideal for hiking and you can visit numerous sites of interest in the
surroundings. It is possible to have a guided tour through the historical centre of Mikulov and visit
castles and caves nearby. You can prepare an intercultural evening for the locals, giving them an
insight into your cultures and talk about ecological issues, which are discussed at your homes. Bring
some games, pictures, recipes and songs which are typical for your cultures to be used during the
intercultural evening. Part of the project will be a one-day trip to Bratislava (Slovakia) and a trip to the
UNESCO site of Lednice-Valtice Area.
Accommodation/Food: In the accommodation facilities of the local primary school in Mikulov. There
will be a kitchen for volunteers to prepare meals. The meals will be prepared by the volunteers
themselves, so it would be great to bring your local recipes. During the working days on the Jewish
cemetery, the group will have lunches provided by the partner organization.
Location: Mikulov, Southern Moravia. The region is known as one of the most beautiful protected
areas in the Czech Republic.
SDA 404 Back to nature
25.8. - 12.9. ENVI Vols: 12 + 2 team leaders Age: 18+
Project: The workcamp is organized in co-operation with the Czech national section of EUROSOLAR.
This organisation is dealing with the promotion of renewable energies and direct ecological education
in the nature. It takes place in an abandoned but exceptionally beautiful, hilly area of Cesky les (The
Bohemain Forest), near the western border of the Czech Republic. The campsite is totally isolated
from civilization (the nearest Czech village is about 11 km away). This project is recommended to
volunteers that are fond of trying out a basic life within nature and do not mind longer walks.
Work: The volunteers will perform different tasks of practical nature protection or other related tasks.
You will either work in a nature reserve about 4 km from the camping place or in other nearby nature.
The main work can consist of cutting grass on protected meadows, raking grass, collecting biomass
and building of a protective fence. You will also work directly on the site where you will be lodged.
The maintenance works on the camping place can include preparing wood, cleaning the surrounding
area, liquidating invasive plants, packaging of a camp and similar manual work. As the meadows can
be very wet, bring waterproof working shoes (or rubber boots) and rain-gear.
Study part: Evening discussions about ecological topics. A visit of nature reservations in the
neighbourhood is planned. As you are living in close contact with the nature you will improve your
camping skills as well.
Leisure time: Hiking in the surrounding nature. Trips to Czech towns in the neighbourhood and as the
project is situated directly at the boarder to Germany, a trip to Germany can be included as well. In the
free afternoons, you can play games, have indian sauna, try out artistic work with wood and archery.
Accommodation/Food: In tee-pees (Indian tents with a fire place in the middle) on wooden pads. You
will cook for yourself from provided resources at freestanding cooking places inside and outside the
tee-pees. The food is ONLY vegetarian. The consumption of alcohol is not allowed at the campside.
The nights in the forest are very cold even frosty, so bring a very warm sleeping bag, a sleeping mat
and an extra blanket or a cover for a hey-mattress. You will wash yourself in a small stream with
quite cold water which flows through the camp.
Location: Stoupa, an isolated part of the village of Lesna in the Czech forest. The nearest town is
Tachov.
Note: The camp is suitable for volunteers who are not afraid of living and working in harder
conditions in close contact with nature. If you are ready for this, it can be an amazing experience. Be
aware of the fact that consumption of meat and alcohol in the camp is forbidden.
SDA 405 Nature and Natural Architecture in Jeseniky
22.7. - 6.8. ENVI/RENO/FEST Vols: 15 + 3 team leaders Age: 18+
Project: The project is organized by the NGO Hnutí Brontosaurus Jeseníky which is active in a remote
and unprivileged region of Jesenicko. Their main goal is to motivate young people from the whole
country and local inhabitants to take up active role in the community and thus create a stronger bond
of the people to the region. Brontosaurus is focused on the environment and sustainability; they
maintain abandoned sights with respect to traditional methods and materials. One of the main projects
is the transformation of the vast former military area MUNA (in the forest) recently stopped being
used by the army where Brontosaurus in co-operation with other NGOs has been creating a space for
environmental education, experiential programs, cultural events, etc.
Work: Volunteers will work in the former military area of MUNA, a forest area full of tiny alleyways,
old buildings and newly installed exhibition of landscape art. There will be different tasks ranging
from renovation, construction and cleaning. Firstly, you will help to renovate an educational path and
to rebuild one of the historical military storage houses using natural architecture techniques (materials
such as straw, clay and wood). The house should serve for the organization of different public events
for the youth and public. Secondly, you will help with different “less attractive but important”
maintenance and cleaning tasks such as cleaning of the campsite, reparations of tools, moving and
storing of material, etc. The area is mountainous and the forest can be very cold and wet so please
bring good water-proof shoes and warm clothes, also clothes that can get dirty.
Study part: Learn more about the history since WWII and the current situation in the region and the
MUNA: Brontosaurus plans to organize a seminar about MUNA and an excursion around the region
including a visit of a former village which was abolished by the authorities in the 1960s and is now in
the process of revitalization by Brontosaurus. There will be also a workshop on natural architecture so
you can learn new techniques. You will also help with preparations of an international campfire which
will be an occasion to meet local people and other NGOs. Please bring some national recipes.
Leisure time: Field sportive and experiential games prepared by Brontosaurus and sports in the
MUNA, swimming pool in Jesenik, etc. Besides, the region offers many interesting natural and
cultural sights (the town of Jesenik, museums, natural beauties of the Jeseniky Mountains, etc.). For
some of the activities, local people will be also invited to join.
Accommodation/Food: In a wooden building in the middle of the MUNA area. The conditions are
very basic – the building is partly open so volunteers will stay in a military tent put under the roof
(there is a heater). There will be mattresses but you need your own warm sleeping bag. There will be
dry toilets in the proximity; showers will be situated in a building at the outskirts of the MUNA or will
be outdoors. Volunteers will cook for themselves. Running water is not available, it will be brought
every day in barrels.
Location: MUNA Mikulovice, near Jesenik. The MUNA is vast; you will be able to use bicycles to
move around. The surrounding countryside is mountainous and has beautiful nature.
Looking forward to your volunteers!
INEX-SDA team