Volunteer Spirit Association

About the local hosting organizationOur partner organization was founded in 2011 as a non-profit youth organization dedicated to community development and active citizenship. With a focus on sustainable development and community engagement, "our partner aims to create a positive impact to local community and nature through volunteer-driven initiatives and to improve the quality of life of young people in the countryside. The main activities that they offer are workshops, seminars and local events, but from 2024 (workcamps as well).

Presentation of the programme

Park Preparation for Festival Activities (April 28th - May 2nd):
- clearing leaves and debris from the park;
- cleaning and maintaining pathways;
- setting up a fire pit area;
- installing tents for festival participants;
- preparing surfaces for graffiti art (e.g., priming 20 - 26 large wooden slabs).

During the Festival (May 3rd - 5th):
- assisting with the festival setup and ongoing needs;
- cooking and serving campfire soup for participants;
- participating in graffiti and discussion workshops, focusing on the theme of diversity.

Post-Festival Activities (May 5th - 6th):
- assisting in cleaning and restoring the park;
- debriefing and reflection sessions.

It is essential for volunteers to be flexible, especially since the work primarily takes place outdoors and the schedule may be affected by weather conditions. This may result in certain tasks or activities being postponed or modified. 

Local accommodation

Volunteers will be housed in the Svitene Youth Center, located within the vicinity of the Svitene Manor Park. The Youth Center offers a spacious communal room for everyone to stay together. Situated on the second floor of the Svitenes Community Center (tautas nams), the facility provides shower amenities on the same floor, while the kitchen for meal preparations is on the ground floor. The environment is basic yet comfortable, ensuring a restful stay. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Special info about the food

Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be responsible for their cooking and cleaning. An intercultural evening will be organized, so we encourage you to bring traditional food, recipes, or drinks from your country.

About the project location

Svitene is a picturesque village located in Latvia, approximately 20 kilometers from the municipal center of Bauska and 89 kilometers from the vibrant capital city of Riga. It offers a harmonious blend of nature and history, with lush landscapes and significant historical sites. At the heart of Svitene lies the Svitene Manor and its historical park, showcasing Latvia's rich architectural and cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by cultural and natural landmarks, including the magnificent RundAle Palace, renowned for its Baroque and Rococo architecture. Additionally, visitors can explore the Meotne Hillfort, an ancient Semigallian settlement, and the medieval Bauska Castle, among other historical and scenic spots. With its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, Svitene provides an enriching and memorable experience for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in Latvian culture and heritage.

About the leisure activities possible

In Svitene, Latvia, visitors can enjoy a variety of leisure activities amidst its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From leisurely nature walks and cycling adventures through the countryside to sightseeing tours of historical landmarks like the Svitene Manor and nearby RundAle Palace, there's something for everyone to explore. Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in Latvian culture by participating in local events and workshops, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, Svitene offers an enchanting destination for leisure and exploration.

Requirements

No prior experience is required; however, good physical health and a genuine enthusiasm for outdoor activities are necessary due to the nature of the work.

About the meeting pointThe meeting point will be indicated in the info sheet.

Extra info about the project

Festival: we anticipate 100 participants forming teams to create graffiti paintings. The Svitene festival laststhree days, focusing on graffiti art and diversity. Day 1 involves participant arrival, registration, and tent setup, followed by group bonding and teambuilding activities. Day 2 is dedicated to creating graffiti artworks, accompanied by ongoing video filming and radio sessions discussing diversity. Day 3 culminates in setting up an exhibition of completed graffiti artworks in the park, featuring an artwork appreciation walk and evaluation by a jury. The exhibition of works in Svitene Park will be open to all visitors free of charge throughout 2024.

Info