Close

Projects in backpack

No projects chosen yet
All countries
What do you want to work with?


Language spoken


Length of stay


Germany Germany: Roll Up Your Sleeves (near Koblenz in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley) (DE-SCI 10.99)

Dates

07/04/2024   -   19/04/2024

Feedback from 14 volunteers

Tags

Environmental
Manual Work
2
Place(s)
left

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
12
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Nearest airport
 
Nearest bus/train station
 

Work

together we will preserve the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley:
we will work in gardens and vineyards, on old hiking trails and forests, on dry stone walls and in orchards. The exact work program is still being developed and will show several aspects for the preservation of the cultural landscape, with a focus on landscape conservation, garden culture and nature conservation!

Accomodation and food

You will stay in the beautiful youth hostel in Kaub at the river Rhein. All meals - optionally vegetarian or vegan - will be prepared for you.

Location and leisure

Upper Middle Rhine Valley, different spots

Project hosted by

The international work camp takes place in the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley in the surroundings of the legendary Loreley and is organized by the Zweckverband Welterbe Oberes Mittelrheintal. Preservation and conservation of the unique cultural landscape are the focus of the work camp. Together with winegrowers, biotope caretakers as well as landscape conservationists, biotope and landscape maintenance work such as mowing and brush removal will be carried out in the steep Rhine slopes and side valleys.
During leisure time, the unique cultural landscape with winegrowing, castles and palaces

Additional comments

INCOMING FEE of 50 € for volunteers applying via partner organisations and contacts of SCI: https://sci-d.de/incomingfee

Requirements

It is essential to bring high work shoes with profile or hiking boots (work on slopes) and sturdy work clothes!

Sustainable Development Goals

Peace and Justice Strong Institutions Partnerships to achieve the Goal
Germany Germany: Berlin Renovation Camp (VJF24 3.2)

Dates

15/04/2024   -   25/04/2024

Feedback from 118 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Construction

Already accepted volunteers from

Italy Ukraine Turkey France Spain Belgium

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 26
Max number of volunteers
12
Still room for
5
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Berlin (BER)
Nearest bus/train station
Tram 68: “Adlergestell / Vetschauer Allee”
Map

Work

During this camp we need to prepare our project centre for the next workcamp season.
Our main goal for the first week will be all about woodworking to prepare our project center for the upcoming workcamp season. This means we'll be busy building DIY furniture specifically designed for our outdoor areas. To make sure everyone learns the woodworking skills well, we've arranged for a skilled instructor to guide us through hands-on training sessions. Alongside woodworking, we'll also take care of other renovation tasks, like painting walls and fixing up small things indoors and outdoors. Since a lot of our work will be outside, it's essential for everyone to come prepared with waterproof clothing to handle any bad weather that comes our way.The centre needs some new colors on the walls, as well as some renovation work needs to be done. You will need waterproof clothes in case of bad weather, as you will be mainly working outside. Other small tasks during the camp may include maintenance or renovation works inside and outside.

Accomodation and food

Accomodation:
You will live at the training center in heated bungalows. Bed linen will be provided, so you don´t have to necessarily bring a sleeping bag with you. There is no washing machine and only limited internet access in the training center.
Food:
You will have the chance to prepare your own meals in a kitchen at the training center. Please bring recipes or even ingredients from your home country, so you can prepare some traditional meals and have a international cook out together.

Location and leisure

Location:
You will live at the "Projekt- und Begegnungsstätte" of the association of Young Volunteers (VJF). The small bungalow village is located directly on the banks at the lake "Langer See" in Berlin-Grünau. It's a quiet place, one hour away from the center of Berlin, but with great infrastructure. Leisure time:
The free time activities are determined by the participants at the beginning of the camp. Please research in advance what you would like to see in Berlin and make with your suggestions a contribution to the group activities.

Project hosted by

"Projekt- und Begegnungsstätte" of the Association of Young Volunteers
(Vereinigung Junger Freiwilliger e.V. (VJF))

Directions to meeting point

Projekt- und Begegnungsstätte der VJF Krimnitzer Weg 25 12527 Berlin Arrival time: Arrival day from 10am until 4pm. If your arrival time deviates, please let us know.

Additional comments

  • Pleae book refundable flight tickets in case the workcamp needs to be cancelled, due to lack of
    participants

    In addition please add to your packing list the following items:
    - a flashlight
    - warm clothes
    - towels and personal items
    - entertainment (music, games, instruments,...)
    - International Student Identity Card (ISIC)

Requirements

Please book refundable tickets

Also, dont forget to bring the following items:

  • a flashlight
  • warm clothes
  • towels and personal items
  • entertainment (music, games, instruments,...)
  • International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
Germany Germany: Solar-Power (Lellwangen near Lake Constance) (DE-SCI 10.90)

Dates

15/04/2024   -   25/04/2024

Feedback from 14 volunteers

Tags

Construction
Environmental
Renovation

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
17
Still room for
9 Male + 9 Female
Languages
English
Nearest airport
 
Nearest bus/train station
 

Work

In this workcamp we are constructing a self-sufficient solar power energy system with
energy storage facilities. This system is a possible way of creating resilient energy supply in a
decentralized manner keeping private energy supply in a more personal responsibility
compared to a centralized energy network run by big company. Additionally, natural
gardening tasks will contribute to a varied working experience with many fields of learning.

Accomodation and food

In your own tent (please bring your own sleeping mat and sleeping bag). Depending on your
needs, indoor sleeping options are also possible. Outdoor kitchen, toilets, shower. The
volunteers will take turns in cooking for the whole group. So be prepared to cook for the

Location and leisure

Our camp is located near the northwest part of Lake Constance, 40 km of the city of
Constance. The workcamp is just outside the village of Lellwangen, Deggenhausertal. From
there, we can enjoy a great view to the lake and the Alps.

Project hosted by

The aim of our association Zukunftsweise e.V. is to build a non-profit learning centre in
which alternative ways of life and economy are researched and practiced and a constructive
coexistence is to be learned and lived. The focus now, is on construction & the effect of
energy-self-sufficient micro-solar networks, which are necessary for a sustainable energy
industry at the moment. This method represents an innovative approach - as an alternative
to fossil or nuclear electricity from the public grid. Each unit has its own energy storage &
inverter.

Additional comments

INCOMING FEE of 50€ for volunteers applying via partner organisations and contacts of SCI https://sci-d.de/incomingfee

Requirements

please bring your own sleeping mat and sleeping bag, working clothes and shoes, if you like, your musical instrument

Sustainable Development Goals

Peace and Justice Strong Institutions Partnerships to achieve the Goal
Germany Germany: Spring cleaning close to Baltic Sea (ijgd 14036)

Dates

19/04/2024   -   04/05/2024

Feedback from 351 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Manual Work
Construction
1
Place(s)
left

Already accepted volunteers from

Indonesia Italy Ukraine Mexico France United States Denmark Serbia Germany Spain

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
16 - 26
Max number of volunteers
17
Still room for
1
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Hamburg (HAM)
Nearest bus/train station
nearest Airport: Hamburg, nearest train stations: Hamburg-Hauptbahnhof – Lübeck/Scharbeutz - Neustadt (Holstein) – Grömitz Lenster Strand Ferienpark Camaro. we would like to invite you to travel as environmentally friendly as possible. If you have the option to go by train, bus, or carshare that can be a great first step for you to become a climate steward.
Map

Work

Would you like to help children and young people have an unforgettable summer and get to know the Baltic Sea beach at the same time? Then help out with our spring cleaning at Brunswick’s children and youth camping site on the Lenster beach in Groemitz. Together with other young people from all over the world you support the staff of the campsite during various seasonal preparatory repairs on the entire site. Together you will set up and repair playgrounds and sports fields as well as barbecue and campfire sites, do painting and cleaning work, perform various maintenance work (gardening and earthworks), repair bicycles and set up tents. (Note: The actual work to be carried out may differ from that described here).
You will be living in basic 2 to 4-bed rooms in the main building of the campsite, which is located just a few metres away from the sandy beach.
For more information about the campsite (unfortunately only available in German), go to www.zeltplatz-lenste.de

Accomodation and food

You will be sleeping in 4-bed rooms in the main building of a child and youth camping site.
On working days you will be fully catered for (vegan, halal and kosher are not possible ). On the days off you will cater for yourself. Money for shopping on these days will be provided. Please state any intolerances during registration.

Location and leisure

The children and youth campsite is just a few metres away from the beautiful Baltic Sea beach. In April it will probably still be too cold to go swimming, but there will be bicycles available for you to use, so you can go on bike rides on the embankments along the Baltic coast!
There is a wide range of free-time activities available for you on the huge outdoor area of the campsite: several football pitches, a beach volleyball court, a beach football court, a beach handball court, a basketball court, a huge bouncy castle, a zip-line, several table tennis tables and giant chess. You can spend your evenings around the campfire.
On the free weekend, it’s also worth taking a trip to Hamburg (100km away) and/or Lübeck (50km away).

Project hosted by

Children's and youth campsite of the city of Braunschweig
The campsite at Lenster Strand in Grömitz on the Baltic Sea is mainly used for recreation by children and young people from Brunswick, but can also be used by other groups and families. It is primarily aimed at children and young people from lower-income families and thus makes an important contribution to their recreation and relief.

The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles: Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education.
Follow us on
Instagram ijgd_workcamps
Facebook @ijgd.workcamps

Directions to meeting point

Meeting point and time: at the accommodation; Arrival is possible either on Friday 19th of April between 15:00 and 19:30 or on Saturday 20th of April between 9:00 and 19:30 at the latest.
Directions to Meeting Point From Hamburg airport take S-Bahn S1 (direction Wedel or Hamburg-Blankenese) to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hamburg main train station, about 24 min travel time). The S1 is running every 10min.
At Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hamburg main train station) take (at least around 5pm) the train RE in direction Lübeck-Travemünde Strand or Puttgarden and get off at the station Lübeck Hauptbahnhof (main train station) (travel time 44-46min).
At Lübeck Hauptbahnhof (main train station) change to train RB in direction Neustadt (Holst) and get off at the last station Neustadt(Holst) (travel time 34-37min).
From Neustadt ZOB/Bahnhof take Bus 5800 in direction of „Grube Hauptstr./Friedhof“. Get off at the bus stop “Grömitz Lensterstrand Ferienpark Camaro” (travel time 26-30min).
From the bus stop “Grömitz Lensterstrand Ferienpark Camaro” walk 350m straight to reach the accommodation on the left side.
Check the website of Deutsche Bahn for the best times and to book your tickets: https://www.bahn.com/en.

Additional comments

Please note: There is a special Teenage Fee of 150€ for international volunteers who applied under 18 in this camp.

Requirements

You should be fit enough for physically demanding work and you should be able to ride a bike.
Arrival is possible either on Friday 19th of April between 15:00 and 19:30 or on Saturday 20th of April between 9:00 and 19:30 at the latest.

Sustainable Development Goals

Good Health and Well-being Reduced Inequalities
Germany Germany: Lights, Curtain, Action! Open-air Theater Heidenheim (IBG 03)

Dates

22/04/2024   -   06/05/2024

Feedback from 224 volunteers

Tags

Construction
Cultural
Manual Work

Already accepted volunteers from

Armenia Italy Germany Poland Greece

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
12
Still room for
2 Male + 2 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Stuttgart (STR)
Nearest bus/train station
Heidenheim an der Brenz (train station)
Map

Work

Lights, Curtain, Action! Are you ready to take part in the building of a theater set?

In this camp, you will help with the set construction for the Open-Air Theatre Heidenheim. During 2024, 2 plays will be performed here: 'Annie' – a red-haired orphan finds a new home with a wealthy businessman, under the care of his assistant, in her search to reunite with her biological parents - and 'Der Räuber Hotzenplotz' – the tale of Kasperl and Seppel, striving to capture the cunning robber Hotzenplotz to retrieve Grandma's stolen coffee grinder. The stage and set needs to be renewed accordingly: In the end, the scenery is supposed to look like New York and a small german village at the same time – a very interesting and challenging task! You will screw, nail, and paint. Smaller props will need to be built, too.

Apart from that, your work will also entail:
• Installing a wooden floor in the prop garage.
• Renewing the cover of the small wooden shelf storage.
• Restoring the seats in the “Klausen” garden.
• Cleaning stones around the cold storage with a pressure washer, possibly renewing or filling with gravel.
• Painting walls and repair cracks in the pavilion.

...and some other tasks as needed! Be prepared to always lend a helping hand.

There will be a professional stage builder who helps you with all tasks. For sure it is helpful though, if you have a bit of experience in manual/constructional work and have used tools like cordless screwdrivers before.

Accomodation and food

You will be accommodated directly on the project side: Next to the stage, there is building for administration, a workshop, a café …

Here you will have one big room for yourselves, showers, and a kitchen. Be aware that there is only one big room for sleeping available to all volunteers – no separation possible!

Your group of volunteers will be responsible for grocery shopping and cooking together. The food will be bought with the camp budget and everybody will take turns for cooking, washing the dishes and cleaning the accommodation. In order to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, we encourage all volunteers to reduce meat and try more sustainable dishes.

Location and leisure

Heidenheim an der Brenz is a town with a bit less than 50,000 inhabitants in the southern region of Baden-Württemberg. The area is rather rural with a beautiful countryside: since it is at the end of the Swabian Albs – a mountain range of about 220km - there are many hills and forests.

Also in the town you will find the Hellenstein Castle, first built on the 12th century, and wildlife park with around 100 animals, very close to your project. If you would like to visit a larger town, you may go to Ulm which is only 30km away. Stuttgart and Munich are about 2 hours by train.

Project hosted by

Your host is the Open-Air Theatre Heidenheim, the 2nd largest one of its kind in Southern Germany. It is situated on the “castle hill” of the town of Heidenheim an der Brenz, surrounded by forests, and can accommodate up to 1,100 spectators.

The Open-Air Theatre is run by a non-profit association and they are very excited about hosting again a group of international volunteers. This project is perfect for everyone who is interested in theatres and wants to have a look behind the scenes! Have a look at the theatre here: www.naturtheater.de

The association was first founded by Gustav Müller over 100 years ago, after the first World War, in his quest of dedicating his life to something that would unite people: art. In 1919 not only did Müller materialize this idea, but also managed to host several productions at the concert stage.

Nowadays, with over 500 members of all ages, the 'Naturtheater Heidenheim' association is one of the most popular organizations in the city of Heidenheim and its surrounding area.

Directions to meeting point

The meeting point will be directly at the accommodation. The path between the accommodation and the train station is about 2km long, so it should take you about 20 mins to get there by walking.

Additional comments

Please be aware that ticks can be an issue when you spend a lot of time outdoors in natural areas in Germany - like in this camp. In our General Infosheet you will find suggestions on how you can protect yourself against them. You are also welcome to check whether a vaccination against the tick-borne disease TBE makes sense and is possible in your home country.

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Cities and Communities
Germany Germany: German-Swiss sculpture trail Hohentengen (IBG 04)

Dates

19/05/2024   -   01/06/2024

Feedback from 224 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Art

Already accepted volunteers from

Thailand Hong Kong Spain

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 40
Max number of volunteers
12
Still room for
5 Male + 1 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Zurich (ZRH)
Nearest bus/train station
Waldshut
Map

Work

Over water - over land: this is the name of Europe's first cross-border sculpture trail. You will take care of several sculptures on the German-Swiss sculpture trail and restore them to their original state. Weather and people have left their mark: The stone of the sculptures needs to be brushed to remove moss and lichen, and some sculptures are also sprayed with graffiti. For others, the subsurface needs to be renewed or maintained. The explanatory plates for the objects will also be replaced. In addition, you will completely renew the barbecue area, which is part of the 9km long trail. This area is intended to invite people to combine arts, nature and community.

Accomodation and food

You will be accommodated in the local multipurpose hall in the centre of the village which is otherwise used for sports and events. This offers plenty of space, a small kitchen and enough sanitary facilities for everyone. Camp beds are provided. Please bring your own sleeping bag and pillow (if required).

Your group of volunteers will be responsible for grocery shopping and cooking together. The food will be bought with the camp budget and everybody will take turns for cooking, washing the dishes and cleaning. In order to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, we encourage volunteers to reduce meat and try more sustainable dishes.

Location and leisure

Hohentengen am Hochrhein lies in the south of Germany, in a kind of bubble surrounded on three sides by Switzerland. Only the Rhine separates the village from Switzerland. The village offers unspoilt nature, numerous sports and leisure facilities (beach volleyball, swimming pools, water sports ...).

Mountain ranges on the northern edge of the municipality, the Rhine Valley opens up to the south, the Rhine glistens in the plain and the Alps in Switzerland greet you on the horizon when visibility is good. With its 3,600 inhabitants, Hohentengen offers the entire infrastructure you could wish for: supermarkets, shops, pubs and much more.

Project hosted by

In 2000, 12 internationally renowned artists realised ideas and thoughts on the theme of borders - dividing and uniting - in sculptures. Embedded in the marvellous landscape of the High Rhine, this path is a cultural symbol of friendship and connects the places on both sides of the river and the German-Swiss border. https://skulpturenweg.de/

Now, almost 25 years after its construction, the sculpture trail needs some maintenance. The citizens of Hohentengen would be delighted if this is done with the help of international volunteers completely in the spirit of the path's artistic message.

Directions to meeting point

First you have to travel to Waldshut. Please check www.bahn.com for a connection from anywhere in Germany or Switzerland. In Waldshut, you will find bus #7340 to Hohentengen. There is a bus every two hours on Sundays. The last bus leaves Waldshut on Sundays at 7.30 pm, so please arrange your travel in a way to be on time for this connection at the latest. Get off at the bus stop "Kath. Pfarramt, Hohentengen".

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Cities and Communities Good Health and Well-being
Germany Germany: Solar-Power (Lellwangen near Lake Constance) (DE-SCI 10.91)

Dates

27/05/2024   -   06/06/2024

Feedback from 14 volunteers

Tags

Construction
Environmental
Renovation

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
17
Still room for
8 Male + 8 Female
Languages
English
Nearest airport
 
Nearest bus/train station
 

Work

In this workcamp we are constructing a self-sufficient solar power energy system with
energy storage facilities. This system is a possible way of creating resilient energy supply in a
decentralized manner keeping private energy supply in a more personal responsibility
compared to a centralized energy network run by big company. Additionally, natural
gardening tasks will contribute to a varied working experience with many fields of learning.

Accomodation and food

In your own tent (please bring your own sleeping mat and sleeping bag). Depending on your
needs, indoor sleeping options are also possible. Outdoor kitchen, toilets, shower. The
volunteers will take turns in cooking for the whole group. So be prepared to cook for the

Location and leisure

Our camp is located near the northwest part of Lake Constance, 40 km of the city of
Constance. The workcamp is just outside the village of Lellwangen, Deggenhausertal. From
there, we can enjoy a great view to the lake and the Alps.

Project hosted by

The aim of our association Zukunftsweise e.V. is to build a non-profit learning centre in
which alternative ways of life and economy are researched and practiced and a constructive
coexistence is to be learned and lived. The focus now, is on construction & the effect of
energy-self-sufficient micro-solar networks, which are necessary for a sustainable energy
industry at the moment. This method represents an innovative approach - as an alternative
to fossil or nuclear electricity from the public grid. Each unit has its own energy storage &
inverter.

Additional comments

INCOMING FEE of 50€ for volunteers applying via partner organisations and contacts of SCI https://sci-d.de/incomingfee

Requirements

please bring your own sleeping mat and sleeping bag, working clothes and shoes, if you like, your musical instrument

Sustainable Development Goals

Peace and Justice Strong Institutions Partnerships to achieve the Goal
Germany Germany: OH-W01 Lohra Castle (OH-W01)

Dates

09/06/2024   -   22/06/2024

Feedback from 58 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Environmental
Construction

Already accepted volunteers from

Colombia Spain + more

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 28
Max number of volunteers
14
Still room for
7 Male + 7 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Berlin (BER)
Nearest bus/train station
Großlohra, Friedrichslohra/Wartehalle
Map

Work

The projects of Open Houses are based on sustainable principles. Therefore, the activities at Lohra Castle combine aspects of cultural heritage preservation and aspects of natural heritage preservation. The castle is surrounded by a vast green area and the volunteers will help in the maintenance of it. Near the youth accommodation houses that are part of the Lohra Castle complex there is a camping site which can be used by youth groups, for this reason the area should be made accessible from overgrown grass. The tasks will be mowing and collecting the grass. Additionally, the participants of the project will support the work on renovations on the Castle grounds.

The hilly massive around Lohra Castle is listed as National Nature Reserve. Open Houses supports the Reserve since several years with volunteering activities. In a forest near the Castle the participants will remove trees and bushes which are not corresponding with the protection aims in order to clean the paths and make them enjoyable again. They will also will collect the wood remaining after maintenance works, load it on a truck, unload it at the castle and split and stack it for wintertime or for the fireplace. Besides that, the volunteers will continue the maintenance of the green area at the castle. In addition, in the later part of the summer, they will support the recollection, assortment, splitting and storage of wood to prepare the castle for the harsh winter months.

The volunteers work six hours per day five days a week. The afternoons and evenings can be used for nearby cultural attractions, games, group activities, campfires and other similar things. On the weekends the volunteers have the opportunity to visit nearby places.

Accomodation and food

ACCOMMODATION
In most of Open Houses' camps the volunteers will live at the same places they also work on, what means that they live more or less on a building site. In most of the Heritage Volunteers Projects the accommodation is located in a certain distance to the working site. The accommodation is usually very simple; there are shared rooms with simple beds or mattresses at most of the places. Shower, toilet and kitchen are at the place, but sometimes not in the same building. The equipment is simple but fair. After work, when everybody wants to take a shower, there can be a limit of hot water.

FOOD
The meals will be prepared together as they are part of the community life, what means that every participant will be responsible for the meal at least once during its stay. So it would be very nice if the participants could bring typical recipes from home in order to introduce each other to the preparation of food from all over the world.

FINANCES
All costs linked to the project are covered, including food, accommodation, insurance and transportation during the stay at the project. Travel costs to and from the camp place are not covered. Participants should organise their journey to and from the project place by themselves and on their own expenses. Furthermore, participants should bring their own pocket money.

Location and leisure

Lohra Castle is situated in the heart of Germany in Northern Thuringia. The castle, which is surrounded by a scenic hilly landscape, is located on the edge of a natural reserve area. Being one of the largest castles in Thuringia, the history of castle Lohra begins in the Middle Ages. It
s architectural styles which have been preserved in the structures of the ensemble attest to a prolonged period of occupation and historical evolution up until today.

The castle is more than thousand years old, and it is a relic of German medieval past that is still standing at the heart of a region through which the story of the German nation has been written. Today, it includes twenty buildings from different time periods, showcasing this historical evolution to the enchantment of visitors and heritage enthusiasts: medieval fortifications, remnants of a tower from the 11th century, a Romanesque double-floored chapel, a manor house from the Renaissance period as well as stables and granaries from the 19th and the early 20th centuries. The ensemble is situated in the centre of a beautiful forest.

For years Lohra Castle was vacant. In the 1990s a civil society association which became today’s Open Houses, began to rescue the castle and to revitalise it through cultural activities. The process of rehabilitation of cultural heritage not only brought new life and use to an otherwise forgotten monument, but it also provided with a new space where young people could reconnect with tangible heritage while valorising the relevance of preserving a historical monument. Since then, a large number of international workcamps, heritage volunteering projects, heritage training courses, seminars, exhibitions, concerts and other activities with international participants have been taking place every year in the castle.

Project hosted by

Open Houses are more than just empty buildings. They're places steeped in history, both obvious and hidden. These are places that have been around for centuries, shaped by those who lived there long ago and those who left recently. They're spaces where dreams and ideas thrive, where people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ages can come together to share and connect.
The history of Open Houses Network began in the mid-1980s when a group of young people in East Germany decided to restore village churches as volunteers to prevent them from falling into disrepair. Their efforts breathed new life into these spaces, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and gatherings that went beyond mere restoration work.
Today, while there's less need for places free from political pressure, it's still hard to find spots where people can meet without commercial agendas or bureaucratic hurdles. The balance between public engagement and private life is tricky to navigate, requiring constant effort to cut through red tape and financial constraints.
The idea of shared public spaces is fading, with fewer places available for collective work. The Open Houses Network aims to change that. We're not just doers; we're visionaries who want to create and protect spaces where people can come together, collaborate, and make a difference. Our projects and events are invitations for everyone to get involved, to make space for commitment, change, and connection.

Directions to meeting point

Information sheet will be sent four weeks before the beginning of the workcamp. However travel arrangements can be done with the already provided information about the nearest airport and bus stop.

Germany Germany: Peenemuende I (NIG01)

Dates

17/06/2024   -   28/06/2024

Feedback from 27 volunteers

Tags

Archeology

Already accepted volunteers from

Turkey Colombia

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 26
Max number of volunteers
8
Still room for
3 Male + 3 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Berlin (BER)
Nearest bus/train station
Peenemünde
Map

Work

Peenemünde is mainly known for its significant role in the times of the Nazi regime. Whereas Peenemünde first was only a place where the Nazis' army was positioned for developing different military tactics, it later became a labour camp in 1943. Prisoners had to help assemble the V-2 rockets and other military objects.

In this camp the volunteers will maintain the remains of the former labour camp “Karlshagen I”. Barracks, a bunker and two towers will be made visible for the public. This includes trimming the plants and keeping the wooden stakes that stabilize the construct in good shape.

Accomodation and food

The volunteers will stay in in multiple rooms at a youth hostel. There will be bikes provided to get to the working location and to travel around the island.
Food is included (also vegetarian). There will be someone cooking for the participants. Dinner will be warm; lunch and breakfast will be sandwiches.

Location and leisure

The town Peenemünde is located in the northern part of the island Usedom which is located in the very north-eastern part of Germany. Usedom is the island with the most hours of sunshine in Germany and a popular travel destination. While Peenemünde was occupied by the German army during the time of the Nazi-Regime, the nature could grow and bloom freely and many salt and orchid meadows sprouted.

Project hosted by

This project is organized by NiG e.V., a german non-profit and non-government organization. In this project we work together with the historic technical museum of Peenemünde. The Peenemünde Historical Technical Museum is working on the history of the creation and use of weapons during World War II. The exhibitions documents who worked in Peenemünde, how people lived and why the enormously elaborate weapon projects were carried out. They give the camp a free guide throuh the musuem and explain the archiological part before and while working.

Directions to meeting point

Infosheet will be sent 3 weeks before the workcamp starts.

Requirements

Please bring a sleeping bag, work clothing (gloves), a mattres pad and motivation

Sustainable Development Goals

Peace and Justice Strong Institutions Quality Education
Germany Germany: Lohmen (NIG03)

Dates

17/06/2024   -   30/06/2024

Feedback from 27 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Environmental

Already accepted volunteers from

Vietnam

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 27
Max number of volunteers
8
Still room for
7
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
(SXF)
Nearest bus/train station
Güstrow
Map

Work

Engage in community work in Lohmen: Volunteers will spearhead the creation of an international herb garden project and assist with various village initiatives. The focus will be on establishing the herb garden, which will serve as a cultural exchange point, showcasing herbs from around the world. Additionally, volunteers will contribute to the maintenance of public parks and the village orchard, enriching the local environment for all residents

Accomodation and food

This camp is for nature lovers. The volunteers will stay in the building of a former kindergarten in a beautiful nature space. Expect a very basic accomodation. You will find one room for sleeping, one main room, kitchen and bathroom. Food (also vegetarian/vegan) is included, but meals have to be prepared by the volunteers. The group has to organize itself, so we are looking for responsible and independent volunteers. There is no washing machine and no wifi.

Location and leisure

Lohmen is a village in the middle of the region "Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania". It is located within a few nature parks with many lakes and forests. It has about 850 inhabitants but also many possibilities for outdoor activities like hiking, doing excursions in the nature or doing campfire and barbeque. Lohmen has to offer many historical sites that educate about the local history. Even though the village Lohmen itself has been founded approximately in the 12th century, the area around Lohmen has been inhabited for at least 5000 years.

Excursions can be planned within the group, swimming, short trips to nearby towns.

Project hosted by

This project is organized by NiG e.V., a german non-profit and non-government organization. It will be organized together with the local community, namely with the cultural association Kulturverein Lohmen "Herz Mecklenburg" e.V.

Directions to meeting point

Will be sent to the volunteers together with the detailed travel information.

Additional comments

BE CAREFUL! There are two different villages called "Lohmen" in Germany. The workcamp will be in that Lohmen between Guestrow and Goldberg in the region Mecklenburg Western Pomerania.

Requirements

Please bring a sleeping bag, working clothes (gloves), a mattress pad and motivation.

Germany Germany: Adventure Land Lauchringen (IBG 05)

Dates

22/06/2024   -   06/07/2024

Feedback from 224 volunteers

Tags

Construction
Manual Work

Already accepted volunteers from

Turkey Mexico Colombia

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
8
Still room for
3 Male + 1 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Basel (BSL)
Nearest bus/train station
Lauchringen West (train station)
Map

Work

The Family Center and, more generally, the community of Lauchringen, are counting on your help to continue the work of previous Workcamp groups. You will work on improving the outdoor infrastructure of the "Adventure Land", an inclusive place for children and school groups. In addition, you will improve, maintain and beautify some of the town's public spaces.

In the Adventure Land, you will:
• Design a new stage set up for the natural stage in the Adventure Land’s garden. Your tasks will be also to build up raised garden beds, to take care of the vegetable garden, to weed and plant flowers.
• Build up some wooden huts, which will be used for the children’s holiday programme in the Adventure land.
• Do other building works, depending on the team’s plan. These will involve working with wood, nailing screwing, sanding down and painting.

In other parts of Lauchringen you will:
• Build a bench in the ‘’Generations Park’’ behind the Family Center. This bench will be there to promote social interaction while hiding the front of the underground parking lot, which is considered not very pretty by the residents of Lauchringen.
• Do other creative and supporting works, depending on the construction yard team’s needs.

The work will be led by a professional instructor, so no previous experience is needed. You will work around 30 hours per week, somewhere between 8am to 4pm from Monday to Friday with a lunchbreak.

Accomodation and food

You will live inside the building on the “Adventure Land”: There are two big rooms with sleeping mats, a kitchen, and sanitary facilities. Please, bring a sleeping bag!

There is also a big common room that you can use for your activities. On most days, groups of children will come to the Adventure Land in the afternoon, and you will need to share the common room and the sanitary facilities with them. The two rooms for sleeping, however, are private and reserved only for your group.

In the Adventure Land, there is a washing machine, which can be used in agreement with the local workers, and there is Wifi. Your group of volunteers will be responsible for grocery shopping and cooking together. During the week, you will have a rapid cold lunch during your break. In the evening and at the weekend, you will have more time to cook warm meals from different countries.

Food will be bought with the camp budget and everybody will take turns for cooking and cleaning. In order to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, we encourage volunteers to reduce meat and try more sustainable dishes.

Location and leisure

Lauchringen is small and pretty town in the very south of Germany. It is located inside the Black Forest, which means you will be surrounded by beautiful nature. In your free time, you can go on hikes and explore the Black Forest.

Lauchringen is very close to Swiss border and not far from places like Constance Lake, Rhein Falls or the university town of Freiburg. In Lauchringen itself, you can find everything you need for your everyday life: supermarkets, bakeries, cafés, etc...

Project hosted by

The community of Lauchringen is going to host an international Workcamp for the sixth time. The project will take place in cooperation with the “Familienzentrum” (Family Centre). The Centre offers various programs for people of all ages to meet, exchange and educate themselves. In 2018, they built the “Adventure Land”: A big house with sleeping facilities, a kitchen, sanitary facilities, a workshop space, and a big common room.

The place offers an afternoon program for children and youngsters and hosts groups during school holidays. The Adventure Land is a very special and inclusive place, from which everyone has something to learn!

Directions to meeting point

The meeting point will be directly at the accomodation. The path between the accommodation and the train staion is about 2km long, so it should take you about 20 min walking to get there.

Additional comments

Please be aware that ticks can be an issue when you spend a lot of time outdooors in natural areas in Germany - like in this camp. In ou General Infosheet you will find a suggestion on how you can protect yourself against them. You are also welcome to check wheter a vaccination against the tick-borne disease TBE makes sense and is possible in your home country.

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Cities and Communities Quality Education
Germany Germany: OH-W02 Lohra Castle (OH-W02)

Dates

23/06/2024   -   06/07/2024

Feedback from 58 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Construction
Environmental

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 29
Max number of volunteers
14
Still room for
7 Male + 7 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Berlin (BER)
Nearest bus/train station
Großlohra, Friedrichslohra/Wartehalle
Map

Work

The projects of Open Houses are based on sustainable principles. Therefore, the activities at Lohra Castle combine aspects of cultural heritage preservation and aspects of natural heritage preservation. The castle is surrounded by a vast green area and the volunteers will help in the maintenance of it. Near the youth accommodation houses that are part of the Lohra Castle complex there is a camping site which can be used by youth groups, for this reason the area should be made accessible from overgrown grass. The tasks will be mowing and collecting the grass. Additionally, the participants of the project will support the work on renovations on the Castle grounds.
The hilly massive around Lohra Castle is listed as National Nature Reserve. Open Houses supports the Reserve since several years with volunteering activities. In a forest near the Castle the participants will remove trees and bushes which are not corresponding with the protection aims in order to clean the paths and make them enjoyable again. They will also will collect the wood remaining after maintenance works, load it on a truck, unload it at the castle and split and stack it for wintertime or for the fireplace. Besides that, the volunteers will continue the maintenance of the green area at the castle. In addition, in the later part of the summer, they will support the recollection, assortment, splitting and storage of wood to prepare the castle for the harsh winter months.
The volunteers work six hours per day five days a week. The afternoons and evenings can be used for nearby cultural attractions, games, group activities, campfires and other similar things. On the weekends the volunteers have the opportunity to visit nearby places.

Accomodation and food

ACCOMMODATION
In most of Open Houses' camps the volunteers will live at the same places they also work on, what means that they live more or less on a building site. In most of the Heritage Volunteers Projects the accommodation is located in a certain distance to the working site. The accommodation is usually very simple; there are shared rooms with simple beds or mattresses at most of the places. Shower, toilet and kitchen are at the place, but sometimes not in the same building. The equipment is simple but fair. After work, when everybody wants to take a shower, there can be a limit of hot water.

FOOD
The meals will be prepared together as they are part of the community life, what means that every participant will be responsible for the meal at least once during its stay. So it would be very nice if the participants could bring typical recipes from home in order to introduce each other to the preparation of food from all over the world.

FINANCES
All costs linked to the project are covered, including food, accommodation, insurance and transportation during the stay at the project. Travel costs to and from the camp place are not covered. Participants should organise their journey to and from the project place by themselves and on their own expenses. Furthermore, participants should bring their own pocket money.

Location and leisure

Lohra Castle is situated in the heart of Germany in Northern Thuringia. The castle, which is surrounded by a scenic hilly landscape, is located on the edge of a natural reserve area. Being one of the largest castles in Thuringia, the history of castle Lohra begins in the Middle Ages. It
s architectural styles which have been preserved in the structures of the ensemble attest to a prolonged period of occupation and historical evolution up until today.

The castle is more than thousand years old, and it is a relic of German medieval past that is still standing at the heart of a region through which the story of the German nation has been written. Today, it includes twenty buildings from different time periods, showcasing this historical evolution to the enchantment of visitors and heritage enthusiasts: medieval fortifications, remnants of a tower from the 11th century, a Romanesque double-floored chapel, a manor house from the Renaissance period as well as stables and granaries from the 19th and the early 20th centuries. The ensemble is situated in the centre of a beautiful forest.

For years Lohra Castle was vacant. In the 1990s a civil society association which became today’s Open Houses, began to rescue the castle and to revitalise it through cultural activities. The process of rehabilitation of cultural heritage not only brought new life and use to an otherwise forgotten monument, but it also provided with a new space where young people could reconnect with tangible heritage while valorising the relevance of preserving a historical monument. Since then, a large number of international workcamps, heritage volunteering projects, heritage training courses, seminars, exhibitions, concerts and other activities with international participants have been taking place every year in the castle.

Project hosted by

Open Houses are more than just empty buildings. They're places steeped in history, both obvious and hidden. These are places that have been around for centuries, shaped by those who lived there long ago and those who left recently. They're spaces where dreams and ideas thrive, where people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ages can come together to share and connect.
The history of Open Houses Network began in the mid-1980s when a group of young people in East Germany decided to restore village churches as volunteers to prevent them from falling into disrepair. Their efforts breathed new life into these spaces, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and gatherings that went beyond mere restoration work.
Today, while there's less need for places free from political pressure, it's still hard to find spots where people can meet without commercial agendas or bureaucratic hurdles. The balance between public engagement and private life is tricky to navigate, requiring constant effort to cut through red tape and financial constraints.
The idea of shared public spaces is fading, with fewer places available for collective work. The Open Houses Network aims to change that. We're not just doers; we're visionaries who want to create and protect spaces where people can come together, collaborate, and make a difference. Our projects and events are invitations for everyone to get involved, to make space for commitment, change, and connection.

Directions to meeting point

Information sheet will be sent four weeks before the beginning of the workcamp. However travel arrangements can be done with the already provided information about the nearest airport and bus stop.

Germany Germany: Let´s beautify the city! With construction and art. (ijgd 24313)

Dates

26/06/2024   -   17/07/2024

Feedback from 351 volunteers

Tags

Construction
Art
Environmental
2
Place(s)
left

Already accepted volunteers from

Bulgaria Mexico Algeria Taiwan Spain Colombia

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
16 - 26
Max number of volunteers
10
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Stuttgart (STR)
Nearest bus/train station
Train: Nürtingen Bus: Neckarhausen Rathaus We would like to invite you to travel as environmentally friendly as possible. If you have the option to go by train, bus, or carshare that can be a great first step for you to become a climate steward.
Map

Work

You support the youth department of the city of Nürtingen with several projects in different parts of the city. Creativity and manual skills are required. A few more projects are still being planned, so stay tuned!

Construction of a graffiti wall:
For 10 years, there has been a much-used, 23-meter-long wooden wall on which graffiti can be sprayed legally. This is now weathered. You dismantle the old one and erect a new one.

Refurbishment of a construction trailer:
There is a construction trailer at an elementary school in a suburb. This is used for childcare. You sand down the old paint and apply a new one.

Designing a corridor:
In the building of a social institution, you design a hallway under the guidance of an artist.

Designing a lizard mound:
On the grounds of your accommodation, you create a hill that serves as a habitat for lizards and other animals.

Accomodation and food

The Swabian Alb Association is nice enough to let you use its building on a hill in the Neckarhausen district. From the spacious grounds with an open-air stage, you have a wonderful panoramic view of the Swabian Alb.On the first floor you can use the large, light-flooded dining room. Behind it is a professional kitchen with a catering dishwasher. In the basement is the room where around ten people in your group can sleep on 10 cm thick insulating mats. If you wish, you can also lay out your mats in the garden in tents, in the shed or under the canopy. Please bring your own sleeping bag and pillow.We will set up an outdoor shower for you in a shower tent. Of course with hot water.

Location and leisure

Nürtingen has about 41,000 inhabitants and is located on the river Neckar near the Swabian Alb. You will be provided with well-maintained bicycles. Ride through the beautiful landscape, to nearby lakes, along the Neckar or explore the biosphere area at the foot of the Alb. You can reach the outdoor pool in eleven minutes, the city center in eight.

There is a direct train connection to the nearby student city of Tübingen with its numerous half-timbered houses. The train takes half an hour to the state capital Stuttgart. Many possibilities await you there: Museums, galleries, shopping, big zoo, planetarium, theater, clubs, vaudeville, etc.

The city of Nürtingen invites you to various activities. Among them is an excursion with minibuses. You will visit a castle on the Swabian Alb and make a cave crossing.
You will also meet young people from Nürtingen. The members of the youth council are eager to meet you. One evening you are invited to a barbecue in the youth center Roßdorf.

Project hosted by

Social Media Project Partner : https://www.instagram.com/nuertingen.de/?hl=de
https://de-de.facebook.com/Nuertingen.de/

The ijgd has been organising volunteer service programmes since 1949. We are an independent, non-profit association for international youth work, a recognised independent youth welfare organisation, and one of the largest and oldest workcamp organisations in Germany. Each year, we assist around 5,000 young people into volunteer work in Germany and abroad. We give them the opportunity to be creative, act in solidarity, take responsibility for themselves, and discover their own true potential and strengths. Our principles: Ecological learning, voluntary contribution, self-organisation, social development, intercultural learning, gender equality, anti-racism/anti-discrimination and political education.
Follow us on
Instagram ijgd_workcamps
Facebook @ijgd.workcamps

Directions to meeting point

Meeting point and time: In the accomodation. We ask for an arrival until 6pm.
From the Stuttgart airport you can take the local train (S-Bahn) S 2, heading in the direction of Filderstadt and get off at Filderstadt. From here you change into the bus X4 or 74 heading in the direction of Nürtingen Bahnhof and get off at Nürtingen Bahnhof. Change here to bus 189 (headed to Altdorf) or 188 (headed to Schlaitdorf) and get off at Neckarhausen Rathaus, Nürtingen. From here you will be able to walk.

Additional comments

Please note: There is a special Teenage Fee of 150€ for international volunteers who applied under 18 in this camp.
You will receive more information after your confirming registration with the specigic infosheet for your project.

Requirements

You need to be able to ride a bicycle.

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Cities and Communities Life on Land
Germany Germany: Darmstadt Forest (ICJA2402)

Dates

30/06/2024   -   13/07/2024

Feedback from 102 volunteers

Tags

Construction
Manual Work
Social

Already accepted volunteers from

Turkey

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 26
Max number of volunteers
12
Still room for
4 Male + 7 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Frankfurt (FRA)
Nearest bus/train station
Bus Station: Darmstadt Bessunger Forsthaus Jugendhof
Map

Work

Together, we would like to build barrier-free dry toilets and outdoor showers for children and youth groups on our campsite. You will be sawing, drilling, screwing and hammering under expert guidance with professional tools and machines. At the same time, we redesign the outdoor area around the tree house, plant native shrubs, extend the deadwood hedge and do typical gardening work on the site. Volunteers are also invited to take part in the Sunday café. Do you have a passion for baking cakes or enjoy being behind the counter? Then we look forward to your contribution to experiencing this day together. During your stay, there will also be other groups at the youth centre with whom you can sit around the campfire in the evening and chat.
We are currently trying to organise an inclusive project together with young people with disabilities. This means that one or even a small group of young people with physical disabilities will accompany the group during the day. Unfortunately, the final number has not yet been finalised as we are still looking for a cooperation partner.
Study part: Inhabitants of Jugendhof would like to show you their life style and would like to discuss certain aspects of a life which is mostly self-determined, self-organized and community based. We plan to offer some games for the group as experience how we offer adventure education for kids. Additional info will be provided.

Accomodation and food

Volunteers live in our centrally located self-catering house "Sharewood Lodge". In addition to a spacious kitchen and two bathrooms, there are three bedrooms in the house, each with five beds. In general, the facilities allow a day-long outdoor life.

Location and leisure

The Jugendhof is located at the edge of the Bessunger Forest, which can be easily explored from here. On hot summer days the shady forest offers a good opportunity to cool down and wide open meadows invite you to a relaxed picnic. You can enjoy meetings in a wooden yurt, which was build from an international workcamp as well. If you walk for an hour through the forest and meadows, you can reach a beautiful swimming lake with a small sandy beach. Darmstadt is also very interesting culturally, as it was one of the centres of European Art Nouveau at the beginning of the 20th century. Since 2021, the “Mathildenhöhe artists colony” of the city of Darmstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We would like to recommend a visit to the impressive and unique area, including the museum and the Orthodox chapel.
Region: The Jugendhof Bessunger Forst e.V. is located at the edge of the forest between the city of Darmstadt and the village of Roßdorf. The suburban area marks the transition from the Rhine-Main region to the low mountain range Odenwald and is located 30 kilometers south of Frankfurt am Main and 50 kilometers north of the picturesque city of Heidelberg.

Project hosted by

“Jugendhof Bessunger Forst e.V.” is a non-profit children's and youth meeting place and one of the oldest self-managed NGOs in Germany. Located in the forest on the outskirts of the city of Darmstadt, we maintain the tradition of a learning and recreational place close to nature and life with down-to-earth, resource-saving accommodation. For over forty years, groups of children, youth and adults, families, clubs or political initiatives have come together here and found plenty of space to learn, run around, play, relax, meet, develop or simply be outside and together. On Sundays in spring and summer, we open the ForstLove Café with a colorful musical program. Excursionists, city walkers and fresh air fans can relax here in the green idyll on the large grounds. Our offer is especially aimed at families and people with low incomes, as the appreciation of heterogeneity and diversity is very important to us. You can find Jugendhof in Internet: https://jugendhof.org.

Directions to meeting point

Bus Station: Darmstadt Bessunger Forsthaus Jugendhof

Additional comments

After registration, we require a self-declaration in terms of legal protection for children and vulnerable persons. You will need working clothes, rainwear and, if necessary, swimming gear as well as sturdy closed shoes. Since it can get very cold in the forest at night, even in summer, please bring warm clothes and don't forget your sunscreen. Bed linen will be provided by the house. Please bring your own towels.

Requirements

After registration, we require a self-declaration in terms of legal protection for children and vulnerable persons. You will need working clothes, rainwear and, if necessary, swimming gear as well as sturdy closed shoes. Since it can get very cold in the forest at night, even in summer, please bring warm clothes and don't forget your sunscreen. Bed linen will be provided by the house. Please bring your own towels.

Sustainable Development Goals

Climate Action Quality Education
Germany Germany: Horb - Make public spaces beautiful (IBG 06)

Dates

30/06/2024   -   14/07/2024

Feedback from 224 volunteers

Tags

Renovation
Construction

Already accepted volunteers from

Great Britain France Mexico Italy Czech Republic Spain

Fee

USD 400
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
12
Still room for
2 Male + 2 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Stuttgart (STR)
Nearest bus/train station
Horb (train station)
Map

Work

The community of Horb is counting on your help to extend and improve some of its public infrastructure like benches, urban gardening, and probably also the skate park of the town.

Your concrete tasks will be:
• Building raised beds for schools and kindergartens: Together with municipal employees, you will help create 10 raised beds for various social institutions in the city, which will then be made available for children, young people, and adults to plant herbs and vegetables.
• Restoring benches in the city and installing new ones. Many benches in Horb urgently require restoration to be used by citizens again. These, along with the raised beds, will beautify the outdoor area and enhance its utility for residents. Additionally, 6 new wooden benches for pedestrians will be built along the Neckar river.
• Craftsmanship for maintaining play equipment: This involves sanding and painting some play equipment in children's playgrounds and renewing or repairing wooden elements in the skatepark next to the youth center and on a "Trimm Dich Pfad" in a district.
• Revamping community gardens to make them more functional and attractive. The garden will be open to all interested citizens who do not have a garden at home.

The work will be led by a professional instructor, so no previous experience is needed. You will work around 30 hours per week, somewhere between 8am to 4pm from Monday to Friday with a lunchbreak. You will also be divided in smaller groups throughout the days to do most of the work.

Accomodation and food

You will be staying at Horb’s youth house, known as Marmorwerk ("marble factory" in German). The Marmorwerk features a fully equipped kitchen, communal rooms where you will sleep on camp beds (please bring your own sleeping bag!), toilets, and a spacious outdoor area. WiFi is also available at the accommodation. For shower facilities, you will need to walk approximately 4-5 minutes to the town’s indoor swimming pool.

The central location of Marmorwerk means it's only a 5-7 minute walk to the supermarket and train station.

Food will be purchased using the camp budget, and everyone will take turns cooking and cleaning. To reduce our carbon footprint, we encourage volunteers to consume less meat and try more sustainable dishes.

Location and leisure

Horb am Neckar is a beautiful town with 25.300 inhabitants, located on the banks on the Neckar river and surrounded by green hills. Horb is about 900 years old! You will feel its long history when exploring the town center. Between the church overlooking the town, the half-timbered houses, the old towers and gates and the narrow paved alleys, you will find many interesting and pretty sights there.

At the weekend you will be able to visit further places in the region. Horb is located on the slopes of the Black Forest, which means that you can easily go for hikes there. With regional trains, you can reach cities like Tübingen (35min) or Stuttgart (50min) or even reach Lake Constance (2h to 2h30), the biggest lake in Germany. Plus, the locals have plenty of ideas and recommendations and they would be happy to spend time with you also during your free time, to make you discover their lovely region.

Project hosted by

This project is the second collaboration between the Youth Department of the town Horb and IBG. Following the success of last year's camp, the community of Horb has enthusiastically decided to host another group of international volunteers.

This project has been developed in partnership with the the youth council, and municipal employees. Your efforts will significantly contribute to the well-being of the local population by renewing, expanding, and enhancing the outdoor infrastructure in Horb’s town center.

Directions to meeting point

Please try to arrive at Horb train station between 1pm and 7pm on arrival day. You can check for connections from anywhere to Horb on www.bahn.com/en or https://www.thetrainline.com/

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Cities and Communities