INEX – SDA VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2011
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 countryside 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 developmental and intercultural education projects and campaigns (e.g.
GLEN, Football for Development, The Stereotype in us). 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 want to 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 - 28 days for short-term projects, 1-3 months for MTV projects
Number of volunteers per project: 5 – 16 for short-term projects, 1-3 for MTV 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, 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. 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.
Classification of the INEX-SDA voluntary projects
Our international short-term voluntary projects can be classified into five 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.
5. Other projects (project code starts with 5)
INEX – SDA VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2011 (SHORT TERM)
Code
Name
Date
Type
Vols +
Age
Leaders
SDA 101
SDA 102
SDA 103
SDA 104
SDA 105
SDA 106
Horse Farm Chmelistna
Moravian countryside Spring
Regional development in Broumov
Moravian countryside
Summer in Moravia
Sustainable Becov/Nezichov
(trilateral: GE – ES - CZ)
Old brewery Chric
Gardening in Dysina
Castle Hartenberg START
Archaeological Adventure
Conserve the remains of castle
Cimburk I
Folk museum Kravare – TO BE
CONFIRMED
Summer in Svojsin
Castle Grabstejn
Castle Kynzvart
Castle Hartenberg REVIEW
Jewish Holesov
Conserve the remains of castle
Cimburk II
Organic Farming at Camphill
Community I
Children Summer Camp
Organic Farming at Camphill
Community II
Learning by playing
Fight social exclusion
Therapeutic Center Ledovec (Iceberg)
22/04 – 07/05
15/04 – 02/05
01/07 – 14/07
17/07– 01/08
17/07 – 31/07
24/07 – 07/08
RENO/ENVI
RENO/AGRI
ENVI/RENO
ENVI/CULT
RENO
RENO/ENVI
9+2
8+2
11 + 2
13 + 2
10 + 2
13 + 2
18+
18+
18+
18 - 26
18+
18+
04/08 – 15/08
22/08 – 10/09
18/06 – 02/07
26/06 – 09/07
04/07 – 26/07
RENO/CULT
RENO/ENVI
RENO/STUDY
ARCH/RENO
RENO/CULT
10 + 2
8+2
16 + 2
13 + 2
13 + 2
18+
18 - 35
18+
18+
18+
09/07 – 30/07
RENO
10 + 2
18+
17/07 – 31/07
22/07 – 05/08
24/07 – 07/08
30/07 – 13/08
12/08 – 26/08
15/08 – 06/09
RENO
RENO/ENVI
ENVI/RENO
RENO/STUDY
RENO/CULT
RENO/CULT
10 + 2
12 + 2
11 + 2
16 + 2
8+2
13 + 2
18+
18+
18+
18+
18+
18+
30/05 – 12/06
AGRI/RENO
10+2
18+
01/07 – 15/07
09/07 – 28/07
KIDS/RENO
AGRI/RENO
10+2
10+2
18+
18+
10/07 – 23/07
11/07 – 23/07
24/07 - 06/08
KIDS/TEACH
SOCI/RENO
RENO
10+2
10+2
5+5+1
18+
18+
18+
Help the elderly in Prague 15
Organic Farming at Camphill
Community III
Children and Youth Centre
New Virgin Forest
Blossoming meadows - TO BE
CONFIRMED
Preserve the unique landscape of
Palava
Back to nature
New Virgin Forest II
14/08 – 24/08
15/08 – 04/09
SOCI
AGRI/RENO
5+1
10+2
18+
18+
31/8 – 16/09
10/07 – 30/07
31/07 – 13/08
RENO/KIDS
ENVI
ENVI
10+2
13+2
9+2
18+
18-26
18-26
13/08 – 31/08
ENVI
12+2
18-26
21/08 – 09/09
04/09 – 17/09
ENVI
ENVI
13+2
14+2
18+
18+
International Voluntary Academy
Hartenberg – (Europe only)
Ashram Yoga Centre I
Ashram Yoga Centre II
02/07 – 30/07
STUDY/
RENO
RENO/YOGA
RENO/YOGA
16+2
18+
10+2
12+2
18+
18+
Vols
Age
1–2
18+
SDA 107
SDA 108
SDA 201
SDA 202
SDA 203
SDA 204
SDA 205
SDA 206
SDA 207
SDA 208
SDA 209
SDA 210
SDA 301
SDA 302
SDA 303
SDA 304
SDA 305
SDA 306
SDA 307
SDA 308
SDA 309
SDA 401
SDA 402
SDA 403
SDA 404
SDA 405
SDA 501
SDA 502
SDA 503
17/07 – 29/07
17/07 – 30/07
INEX – SDA MTV VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2011
Code
Name
Date
SDA MTV 02
Organic Farming Ashram Yoga Centre
3 months during 01/04 AGRI/YOGA
– 30/10
Type
INEX – SDA VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2011 (SHORT TERM)
1. Sustainable development of rural areas
SDA 101 Horse farm Chmelistna
22/04 – 07/05
RENO/ENVI
Vols: 9+2
Age: 18+
Project: The NGO “Horse Farm Chmelistna” is located in a small village at the foot of the
Doupovske Mountains in environmentally important countryside. The main activities of the local
partner are: Restoration and improvement of the village, breeding of horses and other domestic
animals, management of the farm with respect for environmental principles and rural traditions,
usage of horses in various fields (sport, medieval theatre and "Natural Horsemanship"), organising
activities and events for children, especially children at risk of social exclusion. For more
information, see: (www.chmelistna.eu) - on the web site you can find photographs and other
information regarding the workcamp.
Work: You will prepare the pasture for the horses and build fences around it. The work is manual
and will include especially: cleaning the area, the disposal of brushes, making fires and putting up
posts.
Study part: During the workcamp plenty of non-formal educational activities will be planned, e.g.
excursions, lectures, trips, workshops, international evenings and events with local children. An
international evening with a press conference will be held in one of the surrounding communities,
during which you will have the opportunity to present your culture and your reasons for
volunteering. You will be able to meet with children and young people from the local partner’s
target group (children from the neighbourhood, from children’s homes, from a nearby Roma
community and the inmates of an educational institution for young people). You will be able to do
activities together with the children and possibly prepare a joint presentation. You will also have the
opportunity to join a workshop on communicating with horses, horse training, and horse riding.
Leisure time: Horseback riding, hiking in the countryside, making music and other activities around
a campfire. For those interested, a two-day overnight hiking expedition in the countryside could be
organised. (As the transport possibilities in the region are very limited, please note, that it will most
likely not be possible to visit bigger cities during the workcamp).
Accommodation/Food: In a simple brick house. The building has hot water, a shower and a
kitchen. Bring your own sleeping bag with you! You will cook together with the group using
common resources in your lodgings.
Location: The tiny village of Chmelistna (near Nepomysl), in the district of Louny, in the northwestern part of the Czech Republic
Note: Smoking is forbidden in the project’s buildings, vegetarians are very welcome. The project is
not suitable for volunteers with allergies (pollen, animal dander, insect stings ...).
SDA 102 Moravian countryside Spring
RENO/AGRI
15/04– 02/05
Vols: 8 + 2
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 Slovakian border. The region is famous for its folk
traditions and its beautiful countryside. In the middle of the village, the local NGO “INEX-SDA Bile
Karpaty” runs a centre for rural development and sustainability. It also has a farm with old
agricultural lands, which are now beginning to be used again for breeding sheep and for growing
herbs and traditional fruit trees. The area is currently being turned into a retreat for children and
tourists. There is a small museum about traditional rural architecture, where every year several
events take place.
Work: The work will be manual. The volunteers will work on the farm, mainly repairing fences,
making hay, cleaning, and weeding the herb garden. The volunteers will collect herbs from the
surrounding meadows, which will then be used for the production of herbal teas. On April 30th a
small festival of typical fruit products, “Oskeruše”, will take place. The volunteers will help with the
technical preparations of the event (I.E., putting up stands, cleaning up afterwards).
Leisure time: Trips to the countryside and to folklore events, visits to touristic sights in the
surrounding towns and villages, and an educational cycling trip around the region will take place.
The volunteers will experience Easter time in the Czech Republic.
Study part: The volunteers will have the opportunity to learn more about local products, local
farming, the history and natural potential of the region. They will participate in the “Oskeruše”
festival.
Accommodation/Food: You will be accommodated in the “In-Klub”-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. 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)
SDA 103 Regional development in Broumov
01/07 – 14/07
ENVI/RENO
Vols: 11 + 2
Age: 18+
Project: The workcamp takes place in Broumovsko – an East Bohemian region near the Polish
border, which is suffering from structural weakness since the 2nd World War. The local “Agency for
the Development of Broumovsko” is trying supports various forms of regional development, such
as tourism and cultural events. Their objective is to transform the region into a place, were people
want to stay, return or move to.
Work: The volunteers work in the amazing monastery of Broumov and in its garden (repairing a
wall, maintaining the area, cleaning, gardening etc.). They will also help to document the state of
signs on a natural trail and do manual nature protection works in a protected forest. Finally the
group will help to prepare and clean several churches in the region for a series of classical
concerts, which are going to take place there during the whole summer.
Study part: Learn more about the past and present development of the region. Visit the monastery
and its garden. A guided tour through the local brewery is possible.
Leisure time: There is really a lot to do and see in Broumovsko. You can go swimming, make trips
to the famous sandstone rocks of Adrspassko-Teplice and visit one of the many caves and other
natural sites there. Broumov and the surrounding cities are worth a visit as well (museums,
historical sits). You are also invited to visit a “Beatles-Revival” and other cultural events in the
monastery garden.
Accommodation/Food: In a house belonging to the local theatre in Broumov. There are beds and
blankets, no sleeping bag or sleeping mat is needed. A common room, a shower, a small kitchen
and several toilets are available. The groups prepare their own meals from common resources. If
you wish, you can sleep one day in the romantic garden of the monastery – please bring a
sleeping bag and a sleeping mat.
Location: In and around the town Broumov – the centre of the Broumovsko region.
SDA 104 Moravian countryside
17/07– 01/08
ENVI/CULT
Vols: 13+2
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 cheeses, sheep meat any many
more.
Work: Most of the work will take place at the ecological areal „Cottage Travicna“. During the first
week the volunteers will help to set up egresses, needed for the planned extension of the number
of domestic animals breed in the centre. Furthermore, they will help to maintain the area (mountain
trail, interactive statues, care for an arboretum of local woods and a herbal garden). During the
second week, the volunteers will help to prepare the event „Ethnosalas“(a celebration for local
children). During the celebration, the volunteers will assist in implementing the activities. If the
weather conditions allow, the volunteers will also collect herbs on the surrounding meadows and in
the nearby forest, which will be used for the production of organic teas.
Study part: Guided excursion to the biosphere reserve „NPR Certorye“, guided tour along the
nature-trail „Oskoruse“ (traditional regional fruit), trip to the Bata Canal and sustainable tourism are
planned. Learn more about local products, local farming, the history and natural potential of the
region.
Leisure time: Trips to various sights of the regional cities of Straznice and Skalice plus a daily
afternoon-program, including games and trips to the close-by countryside and sights will be
offered.
Accommodation/Food: The 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. 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.
Note: This project is realized with the support of Johnson Controls.
SDA 105 Summer in Moravia
17/07 – 31/07
RENO
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: The project is organized by the local non-governmental organization Hastera, which
organizes and supports cultural and educational activities for the general public as well as for kids
and the youth (f.e. traditional folk culture, music, dances).
Work: The project takes place already for the fifth time. In the last years volunteers renovated local
monuments, a bus station and a school and helped with the documentation of a Jewish cemetery.
This year the volunteers will assist with the renovations of the courtyard of the local elementary
school. This involves preparing an area where an outbuilding has been demolished, so that the
free space can be used for other purposes. The group will also do other renovation works in and
around the school. You will use bicycles to move from the accommodation to the workplace. So
you should know how to ride a bike!
Study part: Get to know the local folk traditions. The dance club of Hastera will teach you some
dances and songs, which you can try during visits of some folklore celebrations or at an evening
with traditional cymbal music. Excursion to a wine cellar.
Leisure time: There is much to see in the region: The open-air museum in Straznice, a place of
Pilgrimage in Velehrad, castles, the Batuv canal, a big lake for swimming and other sites of
interest. During the project a film festival will take place in a neighbouring town. You can also go
cycling or do sports at the courtyard of the school.
Accommodation/food: In the former kindergarten of the city. The volunteers will sleep in one big
hall on the floor on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag and a sleeping mat. In the building there are
reconstructed showers and toilets and a kitchen. The lunch will be served in a factory canteen.
Breakfast and dinner will be prepared by the volunteers at the accommodation.
Location: Uhersky Ostroh (a city with 4500 inhabitants), situated at the river Morava in a beautiful
area of Southern Moravia, known for its wine. 2 hours by train from Brno, 3 hours from Vienna and
Bratislava.
SDA 106 Sustainable Becov/Nezichov
24/07 – 07/08
RENO/ENVI
Vols: 13+2 (CZECH-SPANISH-GERMAN Project)
AGE: 18+
Project: The workcamp is organized by two West Bohemian NGOs dealing with sustainable rural
development, protection of the landscape and preservation of regional cultural sights. It will take
place in two communities of the region, which lay just a few kilometres apart: During the first week
you will live and work in the tiny village of Nezichov. The second week’s activities will take place in
Becov, a beautiful historical town with a famous castle.
Work: The work will be manual: In the first week, the group conserves the remains of a church,
works on a natural track and does other environmental work. In the second week you will do
gardening and maintenance works in a botanic garden, help to build a panoramic track and work
on other places in the city. The tasks can change according to current needs and the weather
conditions. Take good working boots and rain-gear.
Study part: Meet representatives of the NGOs and the villages, learn more about ecological
farming (as you will live on an organic farm during the first week), guided tours to local historical
and cultural sights.
Leisure time: You can visit famous spa towns in the region (i.e. Karlovy Vary), make sports and go
hiking in the surrounding countryside. Bring also some of your favourite local recipes and typical
games.
Accommodation/Food: During the first week you will sleep in a pension on an organic farm. The
local partner will prepare the food. In the second week the living conditions will be basic – you will
sleep in a pension in Becov. Please bring your own sleeping bag! The food will be partly prepared
by you and partly provided by the local partners.
Location: Becov and Nezichov in Western Bohemia.
Note: Special Czech-German-Spanish project (5 vols from each country). Camp language is
English!
SDA 107 Old brewery Chric
04/08 – 15/08
RENO/CULT
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: The old brewery is situated in the small village of Chric. Its history dates back to the14th
century and the brewery was built two centuries later. The production of beer had to be stopped
with the beginning of the Second World War. The complex has fallen into ruin since that time. But it
is an inspiring area, which the NGO Propolis wants to change into a vivid place, serving as cultural
and community centre. Step by step working rooms for handicapped people and an educational
centre offering courses for the public should be build up. The organization would also like to
support the reactivation of traditional handcrafts. Sometimes in the future the production of beer
should be restored, too!
Work: The main part of the work consists of manual tasks: The group will do renovation and
demolition works in the brewery, cultivate the garden, clean a river and help to prepare the local
music and theatre festival “Křič fest”, which will take place on the 13.8. The work will be physically
very demanding. Additionally the volunteers will create a performance or a cultural program, which
they will present together during the festival (the concept is just up to the fantasy and ability of the
volunteers). We are looking for motivated volunteers, who are not afraid of physically demanding
work and who have an interest in theatre, music, dance and creative art. Bring working clothes that
can get dirty or damaged. You will need very good working shoes!! You will work on the weekends,
but get at least one day off.
Study part: Get some knowledge about the history of the place, the brewery and the way beer was
produced. We inform you as well about our plans to the future and depending on your interest it is
possible to visit a nearby museum, where you learn more about local traditions. We can also
arrange a visit of a bee-keeper and of other traditional local producers.
Leisure time: Trips to the surroundings: ruins of the castles Krasov, Krakovec, the nature preserve
Krivoklatsko, the castle Krivoklat and the muzeum Marianska Tynice. There will be some bikes at
your disposal. The village has a football ground; 5-10 km from the village there is a swimming pool
and a river.
Accommodation/Food: In the living area of the brewery in two separate rooms. Bring a sleeping
bag and a sleeping mat. In case of interest you can sleep in tents in the garden (bring your own
tent). 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. The living
conditions will be very basic (outside showers, dry toilets, not much comfort or privacy in the
sleeping rooms)
Location: The village of Chric (about 200 inhabitants, with a church and a castle in its centre),
located in the Western part of Bohemia.
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 108 Gardening in Dysina
22/08 – 10/09
RENO/ENVI
Vols: 8+2
Age: 18 - 35
Project: The project is organized with the municipality of Dysina, a small village in Western
Bohemia not far from Pilsen. You will support the community to care for the local green in parks, a
bio corridor and in other public places.
Work: The work will be manual. 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.).
Study part: In the last week of the project the local school starts its new term. Prepare some
activities for the local school-kids on one the first school day.
Leisure time: Excursion to Plzen (visit of the world-famous brewery, the zoo and the underground
of the city). Trips to the surrounding countryside and nearby towns, horse riding and a campfire.
Accommodation/Food: In the local school on mattresses – please bring a sleeping bag. Some of
the meals will be served in the school canteen, some will be prepared by the group.
Location: Dysina (if you arrive by train – get out at the station Chrást u Plzně!!)
2. Conservation of cultural heritage
SDA 201 Castle Hartenberg START
18/06 – 02/07
RENO/STUDY
Vols: 16+2
Age: 18+
Project: The site of the workcamp is the ruin of the Hartenberg castle with its neglected park.
The castle was purposely set on fire several times and is now in a very bad state. With the help of
volunteers and the non-governmental organisation Hartenberg o.s., the castle is being gradually
reconstructed. Parts of the castle will be used for cultural, ecological and educational activities as
well as for the support and development of volunteering.
Work: Help to prepare an educational seminar, which will take place after your stay. (Includes
manual preparations of the accommodation and the grounds around it). Create activities for a
children day at the castle area. Assist with the reconstruction of the castle and maintain the
surroundings. Your tasks will include various forms of manual work such as carrying stones, brick
work, preparing plaster, plastering and removing and sorting rubble. This part of the work will be
physically demanding. Bring warm clothes, working boots and rain-gear.
Leisure time: You can go hiking in the mountainous countryside, go canoeing, make sport and
music or go on a day-trip to some of the famous spa-towns in the region. Take some games, music
instruments, flags, films and other items, which are typical for your cultures with you.
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
sleeping mat with you. The toilet and showers will be provided in a container. The participants will
cook from common resources in a small kitchen. Bring your local recipes.
Location: The castle ruin is situated near the village Hrebeny in western Bohemia, not far from the
town Sokolov.
SDA 202 Archaeological Adventure
26/06 – 09/07
ARCH/RENO
Vols: 13+2
Age: 18+
Project: The project takes place in the outdoor museum of the village Modra in the beautiful region
South Moravia. The museum shows every-day life and agricultural production in one of the most
remarkable periods of the Czech history. It offers scientific presentations and educational
programmes (like pottery and experimental melting of metal). At the area archaeological
exploration is done continuously.
Work: The work takes place outdoors, mainly in an archaeological open-air museum. Help with the
construction of new buildings for the open-air museum, archaeological exploration (diggings), help
with the organization of local cultural events and participating in them, other manual work
according to the current needs of museum.
Study part: Excursion to the Great Moravian Empire Monument in Stare Mesto, which offers an
exhibition documenting this important era of Czech history, lecture by PhD. Ludek Galuska on life
in the Great Moravian Empire.
Leisure time: Sport with the local youth (football, volleyball…), visit of a wine cellar, guided tours to
the surrounding tourist sights – Castle Buchlov, Castle Buchlovice, basilica in Velehrad, the towns
of Uherske Hradiste and Kromeriz.
Accommodation/Food: In the community house on mattresses, bring your sleeping bag! The
volunteers will cook together from common resources.
Location: Village Modra, near the small town of Velehrad and about 6km from Uherske Hradiste
SDA 203 Conserve the remains of castle Cimburk I
04/07 – 26/07
RENO/CULT
Vols: 13+2
AGE: 18+
Project: The ruin of the Cimburk castle lies in a forest in Southern Moravia and is very isolated from
civilization. The castle was founded in the 14th century and abandoned in 1705. Now you can find
only ruins of the castle, which form a significant landmark in the lovely countryside. The
organization Polypeje is trying to preserve the remains of the castle and organizes cultural events
there.
Work: Volunteers will help with the preservation of the castle ruins (work with wood, sort and move
stones and other materials, brick, clean, plaster, build walls, assist with archaeological work...).
Additionally they will help with to prepare cultural events, work in the kitchen and do general
maintenance tasks. You work even if it’s raining, so bring good boots and rain gear.
Leisure time: Trips to the surrounding countryside, visiting nearby historical towns and monuments
(Kromeriz – UNESCO town, monastery Velehrad, castle Buchlov), get to know traditional Moravian
music and much more.
Study part: workshops, lectures by experts and excursions to the surrounding area according to the
interest of participants.
Accommodation/Food: In tents or in a very simple wooden hut. Take a warm sleeping bag and a
sleeping mat! The volunteers will help to prepare the meals. At the project place, there are only dry
toilets. Water for washing is taken from a well about 2 km from the castle ruin. A shower is provided
only 2 or 3 times a week at the swimming pool in the town of Korycany, which is 4 km away. The
living conditions are very basic - please don’t expect any comfort and be aware that you will not be
able to wash yourself every day! The project is a good choice for people who are fond of the
medieval way of living and are not afraid of hard manual work.
Location: Castle Cimburk, 4 km from Korycany, Southern Moravia
SDA 204 Folk museum Kravare
09/07 – 30/07
RENO
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
– TO BE CONFIRMED!
Project: The project takes place in the biggest traditional timber house in the Czech Republic build
in 1797. The building and its courtyard are used as a museum of traditional living. Every year
several events focussing on the presentation of traditional folk culture take place there. The aim of
the voluntary project is to prepare the courtyard of the museum step by step for setting up an
outdoor exhibition of historical agrarian machines and a small fruit and vegetable garden.
Work: The work will be manual and hard. The volunteers will repair an old stonewall on the
courtyard of the museum (parts of the wall need to be pulled down, others cleaned, rebuild and
plastered) and do some earthwork, so be prepared to move stones and earth. Bring good working
boots and working clothes!
Study part: Visit a close-by open-air museum, have lectures about traditional folk culture and an
intercultural evening with the local people. During the summer the museum organizes several
workshops on handcraft techniques, which you are welcome to join.
Leisure time: The village lies at the edge of two mountainous areas, so you can go on great hiking
trips. It’s possible to visit castles, close-by historical towns and to go swimming. Take part in
summer celebrations in the village. Musical instruments are very welcome!
Accommodation/Food: In the museum on mattresses. In the building there is a toilet, a shower is
provided in a local swimming pool 10 minutes by foot from the museum. Bring a sleeping bag. The
participants will prepare their meals in a big tent at the courtyard of the museum. Smoking is
forbidden in the museum.
Location: Outdoor museum in Kravare v Cechach, about 15 km from Ceska Lipa.
SDA 205 Summer in Svojsin
17/07 – 31/07
RENO
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: Svojsin with its baroque castle is an ancient village located in Western Bohemia 40km
west of Pilsen (Plzen). It was founded in the 12th century. The region has a very long and striking
history. Czech, German and Jewish people were living here for centuries. World War II, the eviction
of the German population and the communist era led to the negligence and devastation of many
cultural and historical sites. In the last years the village is trying to renovate and preserve some
important local cultural sites as the castle with its park.
Work: The volunteers will work mainly in the park of the Svojsin castle: they will help to renew the
park and some of its buildings and maintain those parts, which are already restored. In case of bad
weather conditions you will work inside the various castle buildings, performing maintaining tasks.
Study part: Learn more about the preservation of historical sites.
Leisure time: Trips to the surrounding countryside and to some historical towns near by.
Accommodation/Food: In one of the buildings belonging to the castle. Meals will be partly prepared
by the participants, partly served in a restaurant in the village.
Location: Svojsin
SDA 206 Castle Grabstejn
22/07 – 05/08
RENO/ENVI
Vols: 12+2
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 been reconstructed during the last
years. Now it holds some exhibitions, there are guided tours and during the summer festivals and
concerts take place. Staying in the castle is quite romantic. It is surrounded by a beautiful
mountainous countryside, which is perfect for hiking. The camp is therefore suitable for people who
do not mind long walks and who enjoy being in the countryside.
Work: The work is manual and you will perform different tasks according to the current needs and
to your abilities! You will help in the park of the castle, do some simple construction works, remove
invasive vegetation, cut wood and move materials. Your tasks may include some manual work in
the castle itself.
Study part: Learn more about the castle and get access to the parts, which are normally not open
to the public.
Leisure time: It is possible to go swimming in a near-by lake, to go hiking in the local mountains,
visit Liberec, several castles and other interesting sights of the region.
Accommodation/Food: On wooden floors in one room of the castle. The facilities and living
conditions are basic and a bit dusty. Bring a sleeping bag, sleeping mat and your own eating set!
The volunteers will cook for themselves.
Location: Castle Grabstejn near Chotyne in Northern Bohemia. Public transport is rather limited in
the area. There is only one local train, so the main means of transportation will be your feet :-). Be
prepared to walk about 30 to 45 minutes to buy food in the nearest town!
Note: On the weekend after the project finishes, a cultural event will take place at the castle. If you
wish, you can prolong your stay on your own expenses.
SDA 207 Castle Kynzvart
24/07 – 07/08
ENVI/RENO
Vols: 11+2
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 castle has a charming park and an amazing
history, which goes 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. Bring good working clothes, rain-gear and boots.
Study part: Guided tour through the castle Kynzvart.
Leisure time: Different kinds of sports, swimming in the nearby ponds, trips to nearby spa towns.
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 Marianske Lazne.
SDA 208 Castle Hartenberg REVIEW
30/07 – 13/08
RENO/STUDY
VOLS: 16+2
AGE: 18+
Project: The site of the workcamp is the ruin of the Hartenberg castle with its neglected park.
The castle was purposely set on fire several times and is now in a very bad state. With the help of
volunteers and the non-governmental organisation Hartenberg o.s., the castle is being gradually
reconstructed. Parts of the castle will be used for cultural, ecological and educational activities as
well as for the support and development of volunteering.
Work: Help to prepare topics for a big seminar, which will take place in 2012 (includes evaluation of
materials, preparation of theoretical information, discussions). The volunteers will also assist with
the reconstruction of the castle and maintain the surroundings. Your tasks will include various
forms of manual work such as carrying stones, brick work, preparing plaster, plastering and
removing and sorting rubble. This part of the work will be physically demanding. Bring warm
clothes, working boots and rain-gear.
Leisure time: You can go hiking in the mountainous countryside, go canoeing, make sport and
music or go on a day-trip to some of the famous spa-towns in the region. Take some games, music
instruments, flags, films and other items, which are typical for your cultures with you.
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 one common rooms. Take a sleeping bag and a
sleeping mat with you. The toilet and showers will be provided in a container. The participants will
cook from common resources in a small kitchen. Bring your local recipes.
Location: The castle ruin is situated near the village Hrebeny in western Bohemia, not far from the
town Sokolov.
SDA 209 Jewish Holesov
12/08 – 26/08
RENO/CULT
Vols: 8+2
Age: 18+
Project: The project takes place in Holesov, a small Moravian town, known for its large prewar
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 local organization Olam, which maintains
the local Jewish cemetery and organizes a festival of Jewish culture during your stay.
Work: Volunteers will work on the local Jewish cemetery (about 90% of the working time), where
they will liquidate invasive plants and ranking plants. 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 and films during the festival.
Tours to local monuments. Volunteers interested in Jewish culture are especially welcome!
Leisure time: Trips to the surroundings, free entrance to cultural activities organized by the local
cultural centre, free access to the local swimming-pool, meet members of the local tourist youth
association (they have their clubroom in the place you stay at).
Accommodation/Food: In the former gamekeeper’s lodge belonging to the local castle. Please
bring a sleeping bag. The participants prepare their own meals.
Location: Holesov
SDA 210 Conserve the remains of castle Cimburk II
15/08 – 06/09
RENO/CULT
Vols: 13+2
AGE: 18+
Project: The ruin of the Cimburk castle lies in a forest in Southern Moravia and is very isolated from
civilization. The castle was founded in the 14th century and abandoned in 1705. Now you can find
only ruins of the castle, which form a significant landmark in the lovely countryside. The
organization Polypeje is trying to preserve the remains of the castle and organizes cultural events
there.
Work: Volunteers will help with the preservation of the castle ruins (work with wood, sort and move
stones and other materials, brick, clean, plaster, build walls, assist with archaeological work...).
Additionally they will help with to prepare cultural events, work in the kitchen and do general
maintenance tasks. You work even if it’s raining, so bring good boots and rain gear.
Leisure time: Trips to the surrounding countryside, visiting nearby historical towns and monuments
(Kromeriz – UNESCO town, monastery Velehrad, castle Buchlov), get to know traditional Moravian
music and much more.
Study part: workshops, lectures by experts and excursions to the surrounding area according to the
interest of participants.
Accommodation/Food: In tents or in a very simple wooden hut. Take a warm sleeping bag and a
sleeping mat! The volunteers will help to prepare the meals. At the project place, there are only dry
toilets. Water for washing is taken from a well about 2 km from the castle ruin. A shower is provided
only 2 or 3 times a week at the swimming pool in the town of Korycany, which is 4 km away. The
living conditions are very basic - please don’t expect any comfort and be aware that you will not be
able to wash yourself every day! The project is a good choice for people who are fond of the
medieval way of living and are not afraid of hard manual work.
Location: Castle Cimburk, 4 km from Korycany, Southern Moravia
3. Supporting social projects
SDA 301 Organic Farming at Camphill Community I
30/05 – 12/06
AGRI/RENO
Vols: 10+2
AGE: 18+
Project: The civic association Camphill tries to create an adequate home for people with mental
disabilities. The community runs a day centre and a resident project for people with special needs.
There are also two therapeutic workshops and an organic farm, products of which are sold to
organic shops and on markets. According to anthroposophy (the philosophy of the centre),
emphasis is put on the harmonic life in a family-like community.
Work: The volunteers will perform two different kinds of manual work. Firstly, they will be helping on
the organic farm (planting, watering, weeding) and care for a garden. Secondly, they will maintain
the area of the community and do some minor construction and renovation works (f.e. building a
wall, cleaning, cutting grass, reparations, embellishments). Bring good working gear and boots.
Study part: Lectures about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic farming. Visit to
the nearby Terezin Memorial at the sight of the former concentration camp for Jews – the Terezin
Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques will be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns, go hiking in the nearby hills, swim in
the river just behind the centre, have boat trips, do sport activities, visit cultural events in the near
by cities...
Accommodation/Food: In a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag. One shower with hot
water will be available. The volunteers will prepare their meals on their own.
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental heath issues, smoking and the
consumption of alcohol and drugs are forbidden within the community area. Please respect nighttime peace and the privacy of the clients’ accommodation.
SDA 302 Children Summer Camp
01/07 – 15/07
KIDS/RENO
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: The voluntary project is organized by the non-governmental organization “Centre for all”,
which organizes free time activities and summer camps for children and youth with and without
handicaps. The activities take place in a reconstructed barn with a pretty garden in a small village.
Work: The volunteers will perform two different kinds of work: Firstly they will work with children
and youth with autism and other disabilities (general assistance, organization of activities for the
children, going with them on walks outside the centre etc.). The children will arrive at the second
week of the project. Secondly the group will help with do practical manual tasks indoors and
outdoors: gardening, putting up tents and teepees, prepare the barn for the arrival of the children
(moving furniture, cleaning, decorating, creating games and activities). Bring clothes with you that
can get dirty! You will need clothes for all kind of weather (raingear and waterproof working boots).
Study part: Excursions to castles, visit an artist blacksmith and a school for children with handicaps
and special needs.
Leisure time: Visit the spa town Podebrady, trips to the surrounding countryside, swimming.
Accommodation/Food: Basic accommodation in tents or in a barn. Please bring a sleeping bag.
You will help with preparing the food.
Location: Village of Jizbice, 7 kilometres from the town Nymburk.
Notes: Smoking is forbidden while working with the children. A motivation letter sent with the
application form is strictly required.
SDA 303 Organic Farming at Camphill Community II
09/07 – 28/07
AGRI/RENO
Vols: 10+2
AGE: 18+
Project: The civic association Camphill tries to create an adequate home for people with mental
disabilities. The community runs a day centre and a resident project for people with special needs.
There are also two therapeutic workshops and an organic farm, products of which are sold to
organic shops and on markets. According to anthroposophy (the philosophy of the centre),
emphasis is put on the harmonic life in a family-like community.
Work: The volunteers will perform two different kinds of manual work. Firstly they will be helping on
the organic farm (f.e. planting, watering, weeding, harvesting potatoes…) and care for a garden.
Secondly they will maintain the area of the community and do some minor construction and
renovation works (f.e. building a wall, cleaning, cutting grass). Bring good working gear and boots.
Study part: Lectures about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic farming. Visit to
the nearby Terezin Memorial at the sight of the former concentration camp for Jews – the Terezin
Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques will be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns, go hiking in the nearby hills, swim in
the river just behind the centre, have boat trips, do sport activities, visit cultural events in the near
by cities…and much more!
Accommodation/Food: In a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag. One shower with hot
water will be available. The volunteers will prepare their meals on their own.
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental heath issues, please note that
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 Learning by playing
10/07 – 23/07
KIDS/TEACH
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: The project is focused on teaching English at primary and secondary schools in different
villages around the Moravian village of Skalice nad Svitavou. The aim of the project is to support
and motivate Czech pupils to study foreign languages by making those languages more attractive
to them. The pupils will be able to fix their current knowledge with this interactive method, making
them feel more self-secure actively using the language in conversations.
Work: The volunteers will give unconventional English lessons to schoolchildren. The lessons
should be creative and interactive, using games, competitions, outdoor-activities and conversation
as methods. The volunteers will teach small groups of children and get the support of a Czech
teacher.
Study part: On the last day all kids will get together for a celebration - the volunteers will prepare
games and sport competitions, a present their cultures and cook some typical food for them.
Leisure time: The nearest town Boskovice (11 000 inhabitants) is located about 4 km from Skalice
nad Svitavou. There are two castles, a 'western city', sport facilities and the old Jewish quarter with
a Synagogue. Skalice nad Svitavou is surrounded by very nice countryside.
Accommodation/Food: In a mill, you will cook together from common resources. Take a sleeping
bag!
Location: Skalice nad Svitavou, (about 35 km north from Brno, the capital city of Moravia)
Note: Previous experience in working with children is highly recommended. The volunteers must
submit a certificate of good conduct, a motivation letter sent with the application form and a
medical report, stating they have no infectious diseases.
SDA 305 Fight social exclusion
11/07 – 23/07
SOCI/RENO
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: The project is organized in co-operation with the Czech humanitarian organization “People
in Need” (Clovek v tisni). Besides development work and other activities, the organization is trying
to fight social exclusion in the growing “social ghettos” in the Czech Republic. Site of the workcamp
is Usti nad Labem, a North-Bohemian city with severe social problems. There People in Need is
offering meaningful leisure-time activities for children and youth from underprivileged families and a
centre for mothers with children.
Work: You will work in two different socially excluded communities in Usti nad Labem: in a centre
for mothers with children (community Predlice) and the Drop-In Club “New World” you stay at
(community Krásné Brezno). About 70% of your work will consist of organizing activities for the
local population, mainly free time activities for kids (making music, painting, sport, games…) and
activities concerning intercultural exchange. 30% of the work will be the reconstruction of the DropIn Club and the centre for mothers with children.
Study part: Lecture and seminar about social exclusion in the Czech Republic and about specific
problems concerning work with youth from socially excluded areas.
Leisure time: Trips to the surrounding countryside (nature-parks, castles, close-by mountains and
historical cities). Visit concerts and tea-clubs.
Accommodation/Food: At the Drop-In Club “New World” in one socially excluded neighbourhood.
The volunteers prepare their own meals. Bring a sleeping bag, a light-mat, good boots for hiking,
working cloths and raingear.
Location: Usti nad Labem
Note: A motivation letter sent with the application form is strictly required! Special fee 8 EUR to be
paid on arrival (The money directly supports your stay at the project).
SDA 306 Therapeutic Centre Ledovec (Iceberg)
24/07 - 06/08
RENO
Vols: 5+5+1
Age: 18+
Project: The Therapeutic Centre “Ledovec” (“Iceberg”) for people with psychiatric diseases or
mental handicaps started in 2001 as the main project of Ledovec, o.s. (NGO Iceberg). The centre
works as a family therapeutic community based on the principle of “mutual social rehabilitation” - a
method, which changes not only the attitude of the clients towards the “outer world” but also the
attitude of the wide public towards people with special needs. Since 2002 the centre organizes a
voluntary project where volunteers from Czech and from abroad work together with the centre’s
therapists (and sometimes also clients) to improve the area of an old parish house in the village
Ledce where the centre is situated.
Work: Construction and renovation work (small repairing jobs in our barns, decorating corridors in
the main house), cleaning (sorting out stuff we have collected in our barns), and garden work
(fences for the sheep, harvesting, haymaking etc.). Take working clothes and working boots.
Study part: The centre’s therapeutic workshops will be open for you (weaving, pottery, candle
workshop).
Leisure time: During your stay Ledovec organizes the “Traditional Fair Celebration” where different
handcrafts are presented and various kinds of traditional fair entertainment will be seen. The centre
will also organize trips with their own minibus, often to Plzen - a town famous for its traditional beer.
The centre offers their volunteers two days off for a trip to Prague and is ready to offer the
cheapest (maybe free) accommodation possible there.
Accommodation/Food: In the main building in beds or on mattresses; bring a sleeping bag. A
shower is available. You will receive home made food three times a day in the centre (vegetarian
dishes available). The volunteers have the option to prepare their meals on their own.
Location: The village Ledce, about 8 kilometres northwest from Plzen (Pilsen). In the village you
find Ledovec in the old parish house in the very centre of the village close to the church. The
participants can be picked up at the train or bus station in Plzen.
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.
SDA 307 Help the elderly in Prague 15
14/08 – 24/08
SOCI
Vols: 5+1
Age: 18+
Project: Prague 15 is a quarter of Prague, situated at the outskirts of the city. Here the “Centre
for social care and nursing” offers social services to the elderly. It provides mobile care and
stationary nursing services, where bed-ridden elderly or seniors with limited mobility can
convalesce.
Work: The volunteers will work with the elderly and get a fixed part in their daily program. You will
organize art workshops, leisure time activities and a garden party for them and assist with
occupational therapy and outdoor-activities. The second kind of work will be manual and mainly
consist of gardening, reparations, cleaning and help in the kitchen. You will also assist the nurses
in taking care for the clients.
Study part: Learn more about social care in the Czech Republic.
Leisure time: The quarter has a lot of green areas and good facilities for sport, a large sport ground
is right at the areal you are sleeping at (play football, beach-volleyball...) and you can swim in the
direct neighbourhood. Besides you can visit Prague and see some of the great surroundings.
Accommodation/Food: In wooden cottages on a sports ground, about 10 minutes by foot from the
social centre. The cottages are furnished very basically, but you have beds to sleep in. Bring your
sleeping bag. The toilets and showers are in an extra building. You will eat at the canteen of the
social centre. The food will not be always suitable for vegetarians.
Location: Prague 15, a quarter of Prague.
Note: We prefer highly motivated volunteers with experiences in social care. Volunteers will be
required to submit a certificate of good conduct, a medical note stating they have no infectious
diseases and a relevant motivation letter with the application form.
SDA 308 Organic Farming at Camphill Community III
15/08 – 04/09
AGRI/RENO
Vols: 10+2
AGE: 18+
Project: The civic association Camphill tries to create an adequate home for people with mental
disabilities. The community runs a day centre and a resident project for people with special needs.
There are also two therapeutic workshops and an organic farm, products of which are sold to
organic shops and on markets. According to anthroposophy (the philosophy of the centre),
emphasis is put on the harmonic life in a family-like community.
Work: The volunteers will perform two different kinds of manual work. Firstly they will be helping on
the organic farm (f.e. weeding, harvesting, processing vegetables, storing pumpkins). Secondly
they will some minor construction and maintenance works (in houses and outside). Bring good
working gear and boots.
Study part: Lectures about the Camphill movement, anthroposophy and organic farming. Visit to
the nearby Terezin Memorial at the sight of the former concentration camp for Jews – the Terezin
Ghetto. Workshops on different handicraft techniques will be organized for you.
Leisure time: You can make trips to the surrounding towns, go hiking in the nearby hills, swim in
the river just behind the centre, have boat trips, do sport activities, visit cultural events in the near
by cities…
Accommodation/Food: The volunteers will sleep in a big hall on mattresses. Bring a sleeping bag.
One shower with hot water will be available. The volunteers will prepare their meals on their
own. Bring your local recipes!
Location: Ceske Kopisty – a small village near the historical town of Litomerice.
Note: As you will stay in a community for people with mental heath issues, please note that
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 309 Children and Youth Centre
31/8 – 16/09
RENO/KIDS
Vols: 10+2
Age: 18+
Project: The voluntary project is organized by the non-governmental organization “Centre for all”,
which organizes free time activities and summer camps for children and youth with and without
handicaps. The project takes place in the centre of the organization in the small town Nymburk.
Work: Help to maintain the centre of the organization. The work will be outside (gardening) and in
the building (cleaning after the summer season, preparing the house for the school year
2011/2012). Besides the volunteers will assist during activities with small and handicapped children
(workshops, trips) and help at a public beneficial event and a celebration (workshops, preparations,
decorations). Bring working clothes that can get dirty!
Study part: Excursions to a school for children with handicaps and special needs and to the
medieval village of Ostra.
Leisure time: Tour around the spa town Podebrady, trip to Prague, intercultural day/evening in
Nymburk.
Accommodation/Food: In the international scouts centre in Nymburk on mattresses – bring your
own sleeping bag! The volunteers will prepare their own meals.
Location: Nymburk
Note: Smoking is forbidden while working with the children. A motivation letter sent with the
application form is strictly required.
4. Ecological projects
SDA 401 New Virgin Forest
10/07 – 30/07
ENVI
Vols: 13+2
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. The workcamp takes place on one
of those pieces of land 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: The volunteers will work on the forestlands, helping Cmelak to restore the woodland so that
a mixed forest can grow, that closely resembles the natural state of a forest. The work will be
manual and takes place where currently the most support is needed (planting of seedlings, building
of small fences, setting up of individual protection elements, work in the tree nurseries including
preparation and weeding of beds). The main part of your work will take place in the tree nurseries.
Be prepared to work in all types of weather. Waterproof clothes and boots, are necessary.
Study part: Ecological discussions with Czech pupils, lectures, workshops, projections of films,
study visits and excursions on ecological topics are planned.
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,
offers many possibilities to enjoy culture or do different kinds of sport. Trips to nearby towns and
other interesting sites are possible.
Accommodation/Food: In a dormitory at the outskirts of Liberec. The accommodation has a
bathroom with showers, a kitchen and a dining room. You will prepare your meals on your own.
Bring a sleeping bag and a sleeping mat with you!
Location: Liberec, near the Jizerske Mountains in the north of Bohemia. You will use mini-buses to
get to the place of work in the surrounding forests.
Note: This project is realized with the support of Johnson Controls.
SDA 402 Blossoming meadows
31/07 – 13/08
ENVI
Vols: 9+2
Age: 18 – 26
– TO BE CONFIRMED!
Project: This project is organized by the Czech Association of Nature Protection in Vlasim, which
takes care of more than 50ha of protected meadows with endangered species. The aim of the
voluntary project is the practical management of some of those meadows.
Work: The work takes place on different meadows in the Nature Protection Areas of Podblanicka
and Blanik. The group will rake grass and transport it to a central place from where it will be
collected. If you are interested you can learn how to work with traditional tools like scythes.
(Scything is one of the traditional ways, how to maintain the Central European landscape and
which helps to preserve its great biodiversity.) The work will be manual! Be prepared to work in all
kinds of weather, even when it is raining. Bring waterproof boots and raingear with you! You will
travel to the place of work in cars.
Study part: Lecture on a geological park, which is being developed in the region, get to know the
activities of the ecocentre and visit their new rescue centre for animals which is being built at the
moment, lecture on traditional forms of landscape management.
Leisure time: We suggest to go hiking, make trips by foot to some sites of interest in the
surroundings like historical castles. Furthermore the town of Vlasim offer many possibilities to
spend your free time, e.g. a swimming pool and an observatory.
Accommodation/Food: In the ecological centre Podblanicke. Bring a sleeping bag and a sleeping
mat. The group will cook together at the place of accommodation.
Location: Vlasim just opposite the castle (which you are also going to visit)
SDA 403 Preserve the unique landscape of Palava
13/08 – 31/08
ENVI
Vols:12+2
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 „Center of Ecological Education“.
Work: The volunteers will work at different places of the Nature Protection Area Palava, mostly in
those parts, which are particularly protected as nature reserves. 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 an alley and of a nature trail, collection of garbage in the
four most-visited nature reserves in the nature protection area.
Study part: The workcamp will have a rich study part: Several excursions and lectures on
environmental protection are planned. You can meet with representatives of other regional
organizations active in the field of environmental issues. Furthermore a one day-trip to the LedniceValtice Cultural Landscape listed by the UNESCO Word is planned. You will also visit local
ecological organizations and small companies, which are active in the field of sustainable
production of goods. Besides, you can take part in handcraft 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 close by. You can prepare a multicultural 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 use for the
multicultural evening.
Accommodation/Food: In a pension, situated directly in the historical centre of Mikulov. The meals
will be prepared by the volunteers themselves, so it would be great to bring your local recipes.
Location: Mikulov, Southern Moravia. The region is known as one of the most beautiful protected
areas in the Czech Republic.
Note: This project is realized with the support of Johnson Controls.
SDA 404 Back to nature
21/08 – 09/09
ENVI
Vols: 13+2
Age: 18+
Project: The project is organized in co-operation with the environmental organization “Nova zeme”
(= New Land). It takes place in an abandoned but exceptionally beautiful, hilly area of Cesky les
(The Czech 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).
Work: You will work in a natural reservation. The work will be manual: mowing meadows, raking
grass, collecting biomass, preparing wood, preparing beds, building fences and walls and some
maintenance work on the project site. Bring waterproof working shoes and rain-gear.
Study part: Excursion to nature reservations, ecological discussions on the evenings, visit a beaver
reservation.
Leisure time: Excursions to the forest, nearby villages and small towns. Games, archery, artistic
work with wood, land-art. If you have a EU-driving license, bring it with you as well.
Accommodation/Food: In tee-pees (Indian tents with a fire place in the middle) on wooden pads.
The nights in the forest are cold, so bring a very warm sleeping bag, a sleeping mat and an extra
blanket. You will wash yourself in a small stream with quite cold water, which flows through the
camp. The food is ONLY vegetarian and the volunteers will prepare it themselves. Bring a
bowl/plate for eating, cutlery and a cup. The consumption of alcohol and drugs is forbidden!
Location: Isolated part of the village of Lesna in the Czech forest. The nearest town is Tachov.
SDA 405 New Virgin Forest II
04/09 – 17/09
ENVI
Vols: 14+2
AGE: 18+
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. The workcamp takes place on one
of those pieces of land 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: The main aim of the project is to support the NGO Cmelak with its manual work outdoors in
the mountainous area. The volunteers will plant seedlings of trees and clean branches after cutting
down trees in the area, so that a new and mixed forest can grow, which closely resembles the
natural state of a forest. According to the currant needs this work could be replaced by similar
tasks (help with growing the seedlings) in a tree nursery. This project is designed for people who
are willing and able to do hard manual work and who are prepared to work outdoors in all types of
weather (in the mountains it will be cold, rainy and windy). Water-proof clothes and very good
working boots are necessary.
Leisure time: You can go hiking in the beautiful surrounding landscape and take trips to Liberec (a
town that offers many cultural events).
Study part: Discussions with pupils from a high-school in Liberec, visit the seat of the NGO
Cmelak, excursions to the forests owned by the organization.
Accommodation/Food: The volunteers will sleep in beds in a basic accommodation at the outskirts
of Liberec. A shower with hot water and toilets will be provided. The group will prepare the meals
on their own. Bring a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat and slippers with you!
Location: Outskirts of Liberec, near the Jizerske mountains in the north of Bohemia.
5. Other projects
SDA 501 International Voluntary Academy Hartenberg
02/07 – 30/07
STUDY/RENO
VOLS: 16+2 (only from Europe, only 1 volunteer from each country!)
AGE: 18+
Project: 2011 is the European Year of Volunteering. In the frame of this event, the nongovernmental organisation Hartenberg o.s is organizing a pilot study project, bringing together
people from whole Europe. During 4 weeks the group will debate about various current problems in
a global and local perspective and discuss in which way volunteering can contribute to solving
them. Site of the workcamp are the ruins of the Hartenberg castle with its neglected park. With the
help of many volunteers, the castle is being gradually reconstructed. Parts of the castle are used
for cultural, ecological and educational activities.
Work: In the first part of the project, the volunteers await theoretical discussions and lectures,
workshops and seminars as well as practical excursions and tasks. The topics and methods will be
developed together with the group according to their experiences and interests. Several lectures
from experts will take place. The results of the project will be presented in a document, to which the
volunteers will contribute in the second part of the project. Part of the project will be also manual
help with the preservation of the castle and maintaining its surroundings. This work will be
physically demanding. Take some games, music instruments, flags, films and other items, which
are typical for your cultures with you. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes, working boots and raingear.
Leisure time: You will spent some time on day-trips and excursions, visiting interesting places in
the region and the Czech Republic. (Spa towns, nature parks, historical towns).
Accommodation/Food: In tents or in a simple cottage near the castle in a common room. The
accommodation will be very basic, don’t expect any comfort! Bring a sleeping bag and a sleeping
mat. The toilet and showers are provided in a container. The participants will cook from common
resources in a small kitchen.
Location: The castle ruin is situated near the village Hrebeny in western Bohemia, not far from the
town Sokolov.
Note: We are looking for very motivated volunteers. A motivation letter sent with the application
form is strictly required. In the motivation letter please answer to the following questions: 1. What
are in your opinion currently the most important problems and challenges (globally, in your country,
your region)? Which of them can be solved, which not? In which way could volunteering help in
addressing those problems? 2. Do you have experiences in volunteering? In which region and how
can you get active/are you active? 3. What can you contribute? Which experiences/skills do you
have? Please send also a short CV, pointing out experiences, which could be relevant for the
project.
SDA 502 Ashram Yoga Centre I
17/07 – 22/07
RENO/YOGA
Vols: 10 + 2
Age 18+
Project: The workcamp will take place in the Sri Devpuriji Ashram. The ashram serves as a place
for yoga, meditation and other techniques. It is situated in Zdarec u Skutce, a small village at the
foot of the Ceskomoravska vrchovina hills in the centre of the Czech Republic.
Work: The volunteers will prepare firewood (experience with work with a motor saw is welcome),
further more they will help to build an ecological house from straw and clay (making clay plaster,
building walls from straw parcels) Additional tasks will be gardening, cutting grass, building a
playground. The work will be very hard – we are looking for volunteers with a good physical
condition.
Study part: If you are interested in yoga, you can take part in daily lectures on yoga-practices (e.g.
morning lectures, afternoon relaxation, seminar on system „Yoga in Daily Life”, evening
meditation).
Leisure time: You can swim in the river, which flows right through the area of the centre or in the
stone quarries close-by. Take trips to the surrounding countryside, have a campfire, make music or
visit sites of interest in the surroundings.
Accommodation/Food: You will sleep in the common room of the Ashram on foam mattresses.
Please take your sleeping bag! There will be ONLY vegetarian food.
Location: Yoga centre Zdarec u Skutce (1km from the town Skutec with 3000 inhabitants)
Note: The yoga centre is a place where no alcohol, drugs or meat are consumed. You can smoke
only in a certain area of the centre. Bring good working clothes, working boots and raingear! After
the end of the project, you have the possibility to stay at the centre for some more days for a fee of
150 Czech crowns per day.
SDA 503 Ashram Yoga Centre II
17/07 – 30/07
RENO/YOGA
Vols: 12+2
Age: 18+
Project: The Mahaprabhudeep ashram is a spiritual centre of the organization “Yoga in Daily Life”.
It is situated in the small village of Strilky, in the compound of an old village castle with a large park,
an orchard, a vegetable and herbal garden. The ashram organizes various seminars about yoga
and a healthy way of life as well as camps for children.
Work: During the summer season, the help of volunteers is very appreciated due to the large
facilities and many activities of the ashram. The volunteers will help with simple everyday tasks –
they will work in the garden, in the park, in the kitchen (dish-washing, cutting vegetables), do
construction work and help with cleaning of the building.
Accommodation/Food: In a separate building opposite the castle, the meals are provided in the
castle. Girls and boys have separate rooms. The food is vegetarian only (often Indian type).
Please, bring your own sleeping bag if possible.
Study part: There will be seminars or meetings for those who are interested in Yoga and in the
system „Yoga in Daily Life“.
Leisure time: Trips to the surroundings, walks, swimming in a nearby pool, singing, camp fires.
Location: The ashram is situated in a small peaceful Moravian village Strilky at the foot of the hills
of Chriby (25 km south-west from the town Kromeriz, 55 km east from Brno).
Note: There are rules that need to be followed: no drugs, alcohol and smoking, no meat and eggs
consumption in the ashram area. A motivation letter sent with the application form is required (we
are looking for flexibility, activity - interest in yoga and vegetarian lifestyle are crucial). Please hand
in a medical certificate stating you have no infectious diseases.
INEX – SDA MTV VOLUNTEER PROJECTS IN 2011
SDA MTV 02 Organic Farming - Ashram Yoga Centre
3 months during 01/04 – 30/10
AGRI/YOGA
Vols: 1 – 2
Age:18+
Project: The project is focused on organic gardening, as our farm is a certified farm following the
principles of organic gardening, partly also biodynamic gardening and permaculture. Organic
farming means, that we use environment friendly practices, support biodiversity and protect the
landscape. We do not use synthetic fertilisers to enhance our production and chemical substances
to protect our crop from diseases and pests. Instead we use natural principles to increase the
yields and resistance to pests and diseases as well. Fruits and vegetables produced in our garden
are mostly used in our ashram kitchen. The volunteers will have opportunity to see the production
from the field to the table. The goal of the project is enabling young people learn about healthier
and sustainable way of farming (and living), give them opportunity to live in the countryside and
perhaps motivate them for living a rural/more natural life. It offers the possibility of inter-cultural
exchange and participation in organic movement. In addition our project gives the chance to spend
some time in the spiritual environment of our ashram.
Work: Our farm has 3 employees. The volunteers will help mainly in the vegetable garden and in
the orchard. The volunteers will work 7 hours per day. The weekends will be free. Be prepared for
sometimes demanding work outside (weather changes, sun, …).
Leisure time: After work and on weekends the volunteers will have the opportunity to go for walks,
visit sights or take trips to the surrounding countryside. In the Chriby hills it is possible to see ruins
of the old Strilky castle and ruins of Cimburk castle (near Korycany), where some cultural events
take place. The town Kromeriz with historical monuments on the UNESCO list is 25 km far away.
Accommodation/ Food: In a room (usually multiple-bed room) in the castle or in a building opposite
the castle. The meals are provided in the castle (at the moment we have an Indian cook). The food
is vegetarian only.
Location: The farm is located in the Mahaprabhudeep ashram – a spiritual centre of the
organization “Yoga in Daily Life” with around 15 permanent inhabitants. It is situated in the small
peaceful Moravian village Strilky, in the compound of an old village castle with a large park, an
orchard, a vegetable and herbal garden. The ashram organizes various seminars about yoga and
healthy lifestyle and camps for children. The village is located at the foot of the hills of Chriby, 25
km south-west from the town Kromeriz and is surrounded by forests. The nearest town Korycany
(3 000 inhabitants) is 6 km from Strilky.
Note: There are rules that need to be followed: no drugs, alcohol and smoking, no meat and eggs
consumption in the ashram area.
Requirements:
1
Flexibility, responsibility, sociability, patience and maturity
2
Interest in working in the garden, desire to gain experience; experience with gardening is an
advantage
3
Good physical condition
4
Letter of motivation
5
Medical note stating the volunteers has no infectious diseases
6
Good knowledge of English
7
Acceptance of our spiritual environment and vegetarian lifestyle (see the Note)
8
Interest in yoga is an advantage
Language: English
Pocket money: 50 EURO/month
Cooperation
INEX-SDA cooperates with the international company Johnson Controls.
Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more
than 150 countries. The company’s 142,000 employees create quality products, services and
solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive
batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for
automobiles. Johnson Controls’ commitment to sustainability dates back to its roots in 1885, with
the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through its growth strategies and by increasing
market share, Johnson Controls is committed to delivering value to shareholders and making its
customers successful.
The following projects are realized with the support of Johnson Controls:
SDA 104 Moravian countryside
17/07– 01/08
ENVI/CULT
Vols: 13+2
Age: 18-26
Please find the detailed project description in the section: 1. Sustainable development of rural
areas
SDA 401 New Virgin Forest
10/07 – 30/07
ENVI
Vols: 13+2
Age: 18-26
Please find the detailed project description in the section: 4. Ecological projects
SDA 403 Preserve the unique landscape of Palava
13/08 – 31/08
ENVI
Vols:12+2
Age: 18-26
Please find the detailed project description in the section: 4. Ecological projects
OUR CONTACT DETAILS
INCOMING to the Czech Republic (hosting foreign volunteers at projects in the CR)
PLEASE SEND YOUR APPLICATIONS TO:
incoming@inexsda.cz
phone: 00420/222362715
emergency phone: 00420/776579635
fax: +420/222362719
skype: incoming_inexsda
INEX - SDA
Varsavska 30, 120 00 Praha 2
Czech Republic
Contact person: Anja Decker
Please note that your reservations finish on June 1st. Do not hesitate to contact us for any queries
regarding infosheets, official invitation letters for your volunteers, information about placement and
camps, etc.
OUTGOING from the Czech Republic (sending Czech volunteers abroad)
phone: +420 222 362 713
emergency phone: +420 604 269 685
skype: outgoing_inex-sda_cz
INEX – SDA
Varsavska 30, 120 00 Praha 2
Czech Republic
Contact person: Nikola Zdraveski – placement, email: outgoing@inexsda.cz
Jana Konasova – responsible, email: info@inexsda.cz