International volunteer camps (workcamps)

These projects are aimed at engaging young people in active social life, participating in the development of the local community and promoting youth leadership in the social, economic and political spheres.

The projects take place in the form of work and recreation camps. During 14-21 days,  participants provide socially valuable work for the local community (usually the first half of the day 4-5 hours per day) such as:

• organization of free time for local children and teenagers

• econstruction and restoration of architectural monuments

• improvement of the territory and premises of children’s homes

• preparation of festivals and educational campaigns on the topic of human rights, environmental protection and other current challenges faced in society

After work, participants get to know the cultural values, language and traditions of the country where this camp is taking place, as well as the countries from which the project participants came. Generally, the language of communication in workcamps is English, and local language can be used along with English.

Accommodation and meals are provided by the host organization. The conditions in the camps are different from the place of a volunteer`s residence, so we advise you to read carefully the description of the selected camp. Accommodation can be organized in tents, school premises, dormitory, etc. Meals are three times a day — usually volunteers prepare them in turns.

You can go to workcamps having the age 18 and older. In standard camps (not ESC), the age of the participant is traditionally unlimited. That is, if you are 30-60 years old and more, you can also take part in the workcamp.

Young people aged 15-17 can go to workcamps for teens in Belgium, Spain, Italy, Germany and France (the largest number of camps). In camps for teenagers there is always an additional fee paid in euros. Depending on the camp and the host country, the additional fee can be from 200 to 400 euros, and sometimes up to 600 euros. This contribution is paid by transfer to the account of a partner organization or in cash upon arrival at the camp.

Sometimes there is a need to add a letter of motivation along with the completed questionnaire regarding the motivation in the selected workcamp.

If you want to participate in several camps, it is possible and agreed with the coordinators of «Alternative-V». We provide the necessary support to the participants of the volunteer camp (consulting, providing detailed information about the camp, if necessary, planning the trip route and assistance with buying tickets). 

Each participant of the camp should pay a registration fee (1500 hryvnias) to the account of the association, purchase tickets both ways and medical insurance that covers the costs of treatment abroad and the provision of medical assistance in the event of an accident. Transportation costs are not reimbursed! Each applicant will receive more detailed information about the camp and some travel tips approximately one month before the start of the camp.