Handbook for Workcamps by impressoutdoor

OUR PLACE HAS A GREEN FUTURE ZAVOD VOLUNTARIAT

How to organize and lead an international voluntary project. A handbook for organizers and camp coordinators of sustainable workcamps and tourism. Editor: Urška Hartman Authors: Franja Čok, Andreja Kumer, Darja Potočnik, (chapters Camp dynamics and Definition of team roles), mag. Sonja Candek in Ksenja Perko (chapter Fundraising for a project), Blanka Rihter Photography: Zavod Voluntariat Archive, Tomaž Zajelšnik Design: Balázs Kajor, Tina Trdin Logo: Anastasija Popovska Publisher: Zavod Voluntariat, Ljubljana

This version of the handbook is a DRAFT. It can be used by project partners.

Co-financing Podprto z donacijo Švice v okviru Švicarskega prispevka razširjeni Evropski uniji.

CONTENT INTRODUCTION................................................................................................... 5 ON VOLUNTEERING............................................................................................ 6 INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER WORK............................................................ 7 Rights and duties of volunteers.........................................................................................8 Service Civil International and Zavod Voluntariat........................................................10 INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTARY PROJECT..................................................... 12 What is an international voluntary project.....................................................................13 How to bring the whole world to our village.................................................................15 What should an organizer of an international voluntary project keep in mind.......17 Register your camp.............................................................................................................27 SCI insurance for volunteers............................................................................................30 Volunteers............................................................................................................................31 CAMP COORDINATOR...................................................................................... 32 What it takes to be a camp coordinator..........................................................................33 Camp dynamics...................................................................................................................39 When a conflict occurs......................................................................................................43 Camp coordinator and leisure activities..........................................................................47 ANNEXES............................................................................................................... 50 At camp, I think green! Ecological handbook for camp coordinators......................51 Definition of team roles that will help you understand the interaction between camp participants..........................................................................................................................57 APPENDICES........................................................................................................ 60 Sample Information Sheet................................................................................................61 Evaluation form..................................................................................................................70 Insurance form...................................................................................................................77 BIBLIOGRAPHY................................................................................................... 79

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever thought about the usefulness of handbooks? I have, especially lately, when our Voluntariat team has been preparing this long-awaited handbook for camp coordinators and organizers of international voluntary projects. I already have a few handbooks on my shelves, and they are covered in dust, so I had my doubts. But last week, when I was trying to prepare dinner for my guests, I realized that some handbooks are actually very useful. Like cookbooks. Sometimes we have to open one only to remember the right order of ingredients in a dish. On other occasions, we want to cook something which is a complete mystery to us, and we decide to follow the recipe rigorously. And sometimes it happens that we look at the recipe and then prepare our dish in a completely new way. We wish it would be the same with our handbook. You can follow it step-by-step and trust every advice on camp organization. You might read our handbook from beginning to end and decide to adjust certain things and change them according to your taste and the environment in which the camp will take place. Or it can serve as a reminder for when something goes wrong, and you are not quite sure how to handle the situation. But keep in mind that just as every housewife claims that her recipe is the best, so will every camp coordinator defend his methods. This handbook includes the experiences of other people, the next, improved version, might already include yours. Therefore, we take every bad review as a compliment and encouragement to improve. We hope that this handbook will contribute to the devlopement of international voluntarism, solidarity and intercultural dialog in Slovenia! Urška Hartman, Director, Zavod Voluntariat 5

ON VOLUNTEERING

Terms such as volunteer work, voluntariness and voluntarism are very diverse, just as it is diverse the way we view and understand them. They all share selfless help and work for which individuals decide willingly. This kind of work is not paid, but it does enrich the community as well as the volunteers' lives. These terms include civic participation, democracy, solidarity and non-descrimination. The Universal Declaration on Volunteering states that a volunteer activity is a fundamental component of civil society. It brings to life the noblest aspirations of humanity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; peace, freedom, opportunity, safety and justice for all people. It also recognizes the right of assembly for all men, women and children regardless of their race or religion, or of their physical, economic, social and cultural conditions. Volunteering plays an important role in sectors as varied and diverse as education, 6

youth, sport, environment, health, social care, humanitarian aid, development policy, equal opportunities and external relations. Volunteering strives to reduce racism and prejudice and contributes to the intercultural and inter-religious dialogue. Because it involves people from different age groups, volunteering promotes intergenerational cooperation. It also gives the individuals an opportunity to learn, achieve their personal potential and contribute to their own personal growth. Volunteers care for humanitarian aid, defend human rights and are messengers of peace and friendship. The results of their work can be seen in greater self-confidence and social responsibility, new acquired knowledge, experience and developed social skills, broad social network of acquaintances, friends, etc.

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER WORK International volunteer work has all the elements of volunteer work and can be implemented in all areas. It differs only in the fact that the volunteers carry out their work outside of their country and with their work contribute to the recognition of the interdependence of all communities in the world. As such, international volunteer work offers an alternative form of leisure time and at the same time encourages the volunteers to transfer their ideas and experiences, gained by operating globally, to the local environment. International volunteer work is based on intercultural and international exchanges, which are divided into short-term (up to two months), medium term (lasting from two to six months) and long term (longer than six months) volunteer work. Volunteers do their work without expecting financial reimbursement and with their contribution strive to improve the quality of life. During the process, they are learning and adapting priorities, developing new skills as well as acquiring cultural awareness and building new friendships. 7

RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF VOLUNTEERS

Rights are part of our daily life, so it is necessary that we also know those that pertain to volunteer work. As volunteers we have our responsibilities. Every volunteer: must be educated and prepared to work and live in an international community, must be respected, must have somebody to talk to about work, must know what is expected of him and who is responsible for him, must know who he can trust in case of trouble, can ask for help and support, can ask for certain changes, can stand up to unfair procedures, treatment and criticism, can say "no", can be rewarded and commended, can make mistakes and learn from them, can gain from his work, has the right to know how he was selected, has the right to be informed, has the right to receive answers, can develop, grow and change, has the right to feedback, has the right to be part of the team and be present at certain meetings and social events, has the right to insurance and safe work environment, has the right not to be discriminated and to be respected regardless of his race, gender, sexual orientation, age and diminished physical and mental capacity, has the right to consultation, has the right to his own feelings, opinions and beliefs, has the right to change his opinions and decisions, has the right to be angry, is not obligated to accept responsibility for other people's problems and behaviour. 8

Every volunteer is expected to: be susceptible, open and with no prejudice, be responsible, respect people and their rights, respect the work standards of the host organization as well as its goals and values, be honest in case of trouble, ask for support if needed, participate in training and support work activities, be tolerant, keep his promises, respect certain deadlines and complete given tasks, commit and give feedback to others, accept constructive criticism and comments, respect the privacy of others, know his rights.

The basic guidelines and minimum work standards, that the volunteers and volunteer organizations should adhere to, are prescribed by the Volunteer Code of Ethics. The code is based on mutual respect of all people involved in the process of volunteer work. When doing the volunteer work, the volunteers and the volunteer organizations should respect the rights of all people, regardless of race, color, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, language, wealth, social status, lifestyle, sexual, political or religious orientation, social origin, reduced mental or physical capacity, or any other circumstance. 9

SERVICE CIVIL INTERNATIONAL AND ZAVOD VOLUNTARIAT

Service Civil International or SCI is an international, peacekeeping volunteer organization, which represents values such as volunteerism, non-violence, human rights, solidarity, respect for the environment, inclusion, acceptance, cooperation and promotion of a fairer society and quality coexistence of diverse cultures. In the light of these values, SCI also carries out its primary activities international short-term voluntary projects or workcamps. These workcamps are open to the colorful, intercultural life. They welcome volunteers from different countries and appreciate their work and understanding. The camps also present an opportunity for the elimination of prejudice and for international integration. Because they are embedded in the wider environment, they can spread its values and philosophy of tolerance and solidarity at the local and global level. The first beginnings of SCI go back to the years after the First World War, 10

when the foundation stone was laid by its founding father Pierre Caserole. In the spirit of his peacekeeping ideas, he started the first international voluntary project and united people from the opposing France and Germany in order to rebuild a village destroyed in the war. Initially, the international groups of volunteers worked long-term in areas affected by war and natural disasters. The form of short-term international projects, as we know it today, was developed in the 1960s. Service Civil International supports the operations of the local non-profit organizations, which are helping the countries of the Global South, solving ecological and environmental issues and assisting socially weak and disadvantaged groups. The organization has its branches and working groups in Europe, the United States of America, South America, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Australia. Each year thousands of people participate in SCI's activities.

Its vision is a world of peace, justice and sustainable development, in which people live together on the basis of mutual respect, non-violence and peaceful conflict resolution. In Slovenia, a branch of SCI known as Zavod Voluntariat is expanding the ideas of peacekeeping, Third World integration, sustainable development and intergenerational cooperation through volunteer work and other projects. In addition to workcamps, every year Zavod Voluntariat organizes youth exchanges, projects connected with the countries of the Global South, sociocultural events, workshops and trainings. At Zavod Voluntariat, we encourage local organizations to spread our philosophy by colouring their activities inter-culturally. For this reason, we help provide international volunteers, offer support, give advice on organizing camps and prepare seminars and trainings.

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTARY PROJECT

WHAT IS AN INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTARY PROJECT Socializing with people from all over the world, understanding different cultures and working as a team is as important as the work itself, so we took the time to get to know each other first. The volunteers came from France, Belgium, Belarus, Slovakia, Russia, Germany, Switzerland, South Korea and Japan. Afterwards, we got familiarized with our work, which was introduced to us by the mayor. Our main task was to restore the castle garden - remove weeds and bushes and arrange paths - in short, make it a part of the castle again. Our work was not exhausting and it was fun, because we got acquainted and learned a lot about each other. Although our task was not completed by the end of the camp, the mayor was impressed by our contribution. He repeated over and over again that the most important thing was not our work, but our effort to convince the local people to volunteer and contribute to the preservation of their cultural heritage. /Peter Kumer's recap of an international voluntary project in the Czech Republic, 2007./

Volunteer work, multiculturalism, mutual learning, solidarity, socializing, acceptance, search for peace and integration with the local community are the words that best describe an international voluntary project. Workcamps are open to people of all cultures, religions, beliefs and ages. The volunteers work together in small groups of five to twenty, for short periods of one to three weeks, on a project organized by the local community. In return for food and accommodation, the volunteers work up to six hours a day. Any local organization that decides to organize a camp enriches its own already existing activities or local activities and helps to fulfill certain needs. In addition to the importance of interpersonal and intercultural process that takes place within an international group

of volunteers, we must point out also the significance of interaction between the project and the local environment. One of the basic jobs of camp is to locally and globally present the option of multicultural, sustainable, intergenerational and tolerant co-existence of people as an alternative form of today's world. The integration of the local population can occur in different ways: volunteers help the locals with their work and the final product; volunteers can prepare activities for them; they can socialize together in their free time, etc.

For many years, The Ljubljana Regional Paraplegics Association has been organizing an international voluntary project of paraplegics and tetraplegics, which takes place in Bela Krajina. The purpose of the camp is to show the volunteers the life of people with spinal cord injury and to provide our members a type of active holidays, during which they have the opportunity to brush up on their English, meet new people and make new friends. At camp, we organize various excursions and tours of local attractions to liven up the program and show the volunteers some beauties of Slovenia. The response of our camp volunteers has been excellent and many of them have attended the camp several times and formed close-knit friendships. /Rok BratovĹž, longtime camp coordinator at camp SemiÄ?. /

The themes of workcamps are very different, but they can be roughly divided into the following areas: anti-fascism, anti-racism, ethnic groups, solidarity with the Global South, peacekeeping, helping mentally and physically challenged, helping/working with children, teenagers, elderly, environment, gender issues, underprivileged social groups (refugees, immigrants, ethnic minorities, GLBT, etc.), art, culture and history, ideology and spirituality, restoration, etc.

HOW TO BRING THE WHOLE WORLD TO OUR VILLAGE

The process of development and implementation of an international voluntary project leads to new friendships, inspirations, knowledge and skills. It all begins with an idea. The idea to bring the whole world to our village can be born in a number of ways: A certain organization has the desire or need to include a workcamp in their set of activities, which have a wider global and local impact. Sometimes a camp is a result of a meeting of two or more people who share the same idea. These initiators may come from different organizations and work together towards realization. They can also find an organization that deals with activities connected to their project and then take the initiative and present their idea.

In Slovenia, there are usually four partners that take part in the organization and realization of a camp:

Zavod Voluntariat Carries out seminars and trainings for organizers, offers support and assistance in the realization and organization of camps, takes care of recruitment and coordination of international camp volunteers.

Partner/organizer or partner organization Takes care of the project registration with respect to the activities and needs of the organization and works for the benefit of the local community and in accordance with the values of SCI's project coordinator. Every partner undertakes to fulfill its obligations and duties in accordance with the tender for co-organizers etc.

Camp coordinator Coordinates the team of volunteers and serves as a link between the project coordinator, organizer and the volunteers. More in chapter "What it takes to be a camp coordinator".

A group of international volunteers More in chapter "Volunteers". 15

Working with such a diverse range of people from different cultures is sometimes difficult and requires more time, so it is important that we approach the project with a certain degree of openness and flexibility. Any organization which wants to organize a camp is expected to: understand, share and support the goals, values and philosophy of Zavod Voluntariat, understand that the volunteers are not free labor, but help in a broader context, and need to be given work which they will be able to complete, know that the nature of volunteer work will reflect on the global and local level, provide and agree to the conditions of hosting an international group of volunteers for a certain period of time, provide resources for food and accommodation, offer project theme studies.

WHAT SHOULD AN ORGANIZER OF AN INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTARY PROJECT KEEP IN MIND

As the camp organizer you have to complete certain tasks. The following steps and advice can guide you:

FUNDRAISING FOR A PROJECT

Before organizing a camp, it is necessary to have a clear idea of what we want to achieve with our camp, why we are organizing it and what is important. With a clearly defined idea, we can then easily and convincingly approach the prospective donors. Before registering and organizing a camp, we must consider all possible ways to achieve our goal and we must know what we need for the project (equipment, money, skills, knowledge, material, information). Fundraising includes the use of different methods and techniques that ensure the financing of activities which we want to carry out. It does not mean only raising money, but also acquiring friends. It is an exchange process, which requires that we know the environment, potential financiers and their interest.

For some of the financiers, it will be important that we know what we will do with the camp and how we will solve certain problems, for others, it will be more important to know in what region we will organize the camp. In an ideal situation, our interests will match the interests and abilities of the financiers - we will have the same target group, scope and the same values. The first step in fundraising is making a list and analyzing potential donors from the immediate and wider area. We then continue with gathering information on financiers, writing offer letters, sending emails and visiting the potential donors. We can also take advantage of the public procurements opportunities. To the potential financiers, we must present our camp in an attractive way and also be clear about what and how much we expect from them and what we can offer in return. Besides money, we should also accept help in the form of food, housing, material resources, knowledge, advertising space, article in a local newspaper, etc. Any kind of help is more than welcome when we are trying to organize a camp. 17

WORK AND SAFETY WORK The very name â&#x20AC;&#x153;workcampâ&#x20AC;? indicates that the volunteers are expected to participate in a certain activity. Work at camp usually takes around 6 hours a day, five days a week with weekends off. The nature of work can differ, but all camps operate for the benefit of the local communities. It is important that the camp coordinator is a motivated worker and also encourages other participants to successfully complete their task. Camp work covers a range of different fields. We can come across activities such as:

Environmental protection cleaning up river embankments, planting trees, restoring hiking trails, helping construct wooden structures near the hiking trails, raking the salt extracted from the salt pans in a traditional way.

Supporting local community cleaning up villages and making them more beautiful, turning abandoned buildings into cultural and artistic areas, reconstructing shelters for the homeless, doing monumental work, archaeological excavations, creating walking and learning trails.

Agriculture helping organic farms and promoting organic farming, helping with the harvest, raking and drying grass.

Culture helping at cultural events (checking tickets, directing guests, helping the performers, preparing the stage, chairs, stalls, etc.), doing a performance as part of an international camp (musical, theatrical, singing, acrobatic, etc.), helping to organize a cultural event, helping to manage a museum and setting up exhibitions.

The purpose of volunteer work must be thoroughly explained to the volunteers and they must know why they work. It is also important to know that all the activities that take place within the volunteer camps are non-profit projects and that the volunteers do their work for the benefit of the whole society and not just one individual!

Work tasks for the volunteers:

BEST PRACTICE TIP

After the volunteers are given a new task, someone from the local community who is involved with the project should help them start and thoroughly explain all the stages of work. To avoid awkward situations, the organizer should make a detailed work plan before camp and discuss it with the potential project coordinator (it helps if the project coordinator is assigned by the camp organizer and knows the desired goals of the project). The organizer should also assign the roles and responsibilities of the participants (Who will manage the project? Who will be the camp coordinator? Will some roles overlap? For example, will the camp coordinator also be the project coordinator?). Work tasks should be communicated to the volunteers in a clear and decisive way. This will motivate the volunteers to work more as well as improve the work atmosphere. Nevertheless, we have to consider the fact that at the end of camp the work may not be entirely completed.

The volunteer group should meet with the camp coordinator and the project coordinator every morning before starting work. They should talk about the work that follows and present the tasks and goals that need to be completed by the end of work day. On the basis of work tasks, the volunteers should unanimously divide into groups. They should also switch groups during camp, so they get the chance to know each other and different cultures.

Although the volunteers undertake handwork or physical activity, the actual work is not the most important aspect of the camp. The main point is that the volunteers learn from each other and from the work itself.

With respect to goodwill of volunteers and camp coordinators, we believe that the following work is unacceptable and should be done by those who receive payment: dangerous work (working with machines that require expert knowledge, working at height), any activity which would make the volunteers feel they are unpaid labor force (e.g. cleaning toilets at festivals), work which benefits only an individual from the local community and not the wider population (e.g. planting trees at camp coordinatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home).

SAFETY Safety standards must be strictly adhered to in all work activities! Camp participants are excluded from hazardous tasks such as working with dangerous machinery or on “improvised” scaffolding. They are also excluded from tasks that require specific technical skills. In order to ensure the safety of all camp participants during both work and leisure time, you should keep in mind the following tips: Wear appropriate work clothes. Wear protective clothing, footwear and helmets whenever necessary. Properly train the voluneteers for each job (with instructions before work, practical demonstration, etc.). Work must be appropriately supervised and done with proper tools and/or machinery. Lifting should be done with other people present and in a safe way. Always make sure that the volunteers do not walk around hazardous devices by themselves. They should not try to handle something new if they do not have the necessary experience. When working with vulnerable groups (children, people with special needs) always provide proper supervision. Remember all the emergency exits and the location of the fire extinguisher. Share that information with the volunteers. Limit indoor smoking to those areas where it is safe and allowed. Use only those vehicles which are in perfect condition. All drivers must hold a driving license, have insurance and must be familiar with the local regulations. Find out if anyone in the group has potential health problems, takes prescription drugs or has allergies. Volunteers who might experience seizures (epilepsy, asthma...) should not work in the vicinity of machinery that may pose a risk. All other volunteers should know how to react in an event of a seizure. When using first aid, you have to follow the instructions in order to prevent any dangerous infectious diseases. Wear rubber gloves when you are in contact with blood or when you are treating cuts. Clean the wounds with saline solution. For larger wounds consult your doctor. Make sure you have an appropriate first aid pack and first aid manual, so you can treat small wounds, stings, bruises, etc. When in doubt, always call the nearest doctor. Always keep a list of important numbers (ambulance, fire and police) near you. Ensure personal and group hygiene in order to prevent infectious diseases. If someone gets sick, accommodate him in a separate place to prevent the disease from spreading. The volunteers have the right and duty to say “no” when they believe that the work intended for them is dangerous! 20

FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION FOOD The organizer must organize and provide the camp with food, but the delivery and preparation of food differ from camp to camp. Below are some useful tips that can help you with shopping and camp cooking: The organizer can choose different ways of food delivery and preparation: he can open an account at a local store where the volunteers buy the ingredients and then cook their own meals; he can decide that the volunteers will be served already prepared meals at the local restaurant; he can order lunches at a nearby kindergarten or retirement home, etc. We can also acquire food and beverages in the form of donations and in the months leading up to the start of camp begin sending requests and collecting the donated products.

AN EXAMPLE OF SHOPPING AND COOKING AT CAMP IN OSTERFĂ&#x201E;RNEB, SWEDEN: The organizer, the camp coordinators and the volunteers have agreed on the maximum amount that they can spend on daily shopping. The nearest shop was half an hour drive away. There was a car available at camp and 2-3 volunteers signed up to do the shopping with the shopping list that the volunteers created together. Every day there was a different group of three volunteers assigned to prepare the meals, serve the tables and clean the dishes (at breakfast, lunch and dinner). Shared meals are an excellent opportunity for an intercultural exchange.

Shopping will be done quickly and efficiently with a carefully planned shopping list and a prearranged "shopping team". The camp coordinator can assign the volunteers for shopping, or he can join them. Shopping can be done daily, every 2-3 days, major purchases can be done over the weekend, etc.. In most cases, the volunteers, cooks, organizers, etc., mutually agree on what to put in the shopping cart. It is advisable that the camp coordinator keeps a list of used funds, especially in the first few days, because the money has to last until the end of camp. The camp coordinator must also take into account all the special events such as volunteers' birthday celebrations. He can make these occassions more special with different treats. The organizer and the camp coordinator have to agree on the terms for buying alcoholic and other expensive non-alcoholic drinks. At the start of camp, the camp coordinator then explains the agreement and the rules to the volunteers. The camp coordinator should welcome the volunteers when they arrive after a long and hard journey and prepare something for them to eat! Usually, there is at least one international night when the volunteers cook and serve delicacies from their countries. They can invite the organizer and the people from the local community to these events. If the volunteers are preparing the meals by themselves, the following amounts can help them calculate how much they need per person/lunch. Sweet corn, pickles, beet................................................................................................. 150 g Green salad.......................................................................................................... 1 to 5 people Tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, green vegetables............................................................. 250 g Pasta, rice........................................................................................................................... 100 g Meat/fish........................................................................................................................... 100 g Eggs............................................................................................................................................ 1 Fruit.................................................................................................................................... 2/day The amount of bread, muesli, corn flakes and milk depends on the group. In the first few days, the camp coordinator must pay attention to the people's habits and assess the average use of these products. We recommend you to follow the environmental principles of SCI and Zavod Voluntariat and respect the guidelines of responsible consumption. You can read more on this in the chapter "At camp, I think green".

Meals

Breakfasts, lunches and dinners are more than just your average meals, because they offer an opportunity for a conversation, an exchange of information, etc.. They are also an excellent opportunity for doing quick evaluations and passing on complaints and compliments. Preparing meals has a greater social and cultural meaning, so every volunteer should be involved. Cooking teams made up from volunteers should be formed in advance (the group which cooks also serves the food, clears the tables, washes the dishes, etc.). When it comes to cooking, originality is more than welcome. So why not enrich the menu with colorful international food? Tasting and presenting food from different countries can lead to many stories, anecdotes and new experiences. It can spark curiosity and make volunteers learn about different eating habits in different cultures. Preparing a picnic instead of a classic meal can excite the day and contribute to a better atmosphere at camp.

In a group of different people, there are also different tastes and expectations. When it comes to food and accommodation, we sometimes cannot please everyone in every way and fulfill all of the volunteers' wishes, so the camp coordinator should not take every remark to heart.

Vegetarianism/Special needs/Diets Volunteers should already inform the camp coordinator and the organizer of their special needs in their application. But in order to be sure, the camp coordinator should enquire about the volunteers' diet again before the camp starts (in case of a bigger issue) and when the volunteers arrive. If there are any notes in the applications, the camp coordinator must contact the organizer as soon as possible and discuss with him how they can please the volunteers.

ACCOMMODATION Camp volunteers around the world and at home come across different types of accommodation. The most typical are: sleeping in youth homes, hostels, tents, on mattresses in common rooms, on floors in sleeping bags, on cushions, etc. The organizer takes care of the accommodation and has to provide a description of the camp which can be found online and must include all details pertaining to the accommodation. The organizer must also inform the volunteers if they have to bring their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, tents, etc. Below you can find questions that can serve you as guidelines when you are looking for a place to stay for the volunteers: Where can we accommodate the volunteers? Are there enough beds? Do we need to provide sleeping pads or bags or do the volunteers need to bring them? Does the place have toilets and showers? Is there a big and comfortable common room? Are there enough tables and chairs? Are there enough dishes and cutlery? Where will the volunteers cook their meals? What about dish cloths and cleaning products? Are they included in the project? What about safe places for storing money and other valuables? Is the first aid kit properly stocked? What about the fire extinguisher? Where are the emergency exits? If you come across any difficulties while trying to provide a proper accommodation, turn to other institutions and societies in your area. They will help you solve your problems. The experiences of Slovenian organizers show that people from the local communities welcome such projects in their town and are willing to help, many times in the form of donations. 24

AN EXAMPLE OF A VOLUNTEER ACCOMMODATION AT CAMP "NEIGHBOURHOOD NOVE POLJANE": At camp "Neighborhood Nove Poljane" volunteers help organizing workshops for children from socially disadvantaged families. The organizer had to find the necessary space to accommodate the volunteers, but to find a place like that in Ljubljana is sometimes even harder and more expensive than in smaller areas. The organizer sent requests to a number of accommodation providers in Ljubljana, described the project and the situation. The problem was soon solved with the help of one of the hostels where they accepted the volunteers free of charge. Camp accommodation is usually simple and modest. It is important that the volunteers are well-informed about it and that the accommodation meets the basic standards (the space should not be damp or cold; it should be without draft and in the event of bad weather closed or indoor, etc.). You should also consider the above written guidelines. "Hotel Blue Sky" â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Camping, sleeping in nets and out in the open at a Scandinavian camp provided a great experience in spite of mosquitoes.

STUDY THEME An international camp is a place that provides opportunities for education, development and knowledge exchange, because the practical learning process takes place through social interaction throughout the entire camp. However, we must emphasize that a camp is not a theoretical seminar. The joint activity of all camps is to implement thematic work which stimulates debate on certain issues. The purpose of a study theme is to show the connection between the main issue or topic (environmentalism, social exclusion, youth policy, intolerance, etc.) and camp. Study theme offers the possibility of a discussion in an international environment. The thematic emphasis of the project and its objectives should be integrated into the life at camp, be visible in the broader social context and form the main study theme. The main point of the study part of camp is to motivate the volunteers to deepen their knowledge of a particular issue in hope that they would continue to pursue the matter after they return home. The camp coordinator should try to include all the volunteers in the discussion. The study part of camp can be executed in several ways: you can invite an external expert to tell you more about a specific issue and then organize a follow-up discussion; you can obtain the material before camp and go through it together with the participants (making posters, postcards, etc.); you can encourage the volunteers to bring things from their countries which are related to the camp theme; you can organize thematic tours or excursions, visit museums, organic farms...

MEDIA An introduction and a presentation of our camp in the media promotes our ideas and inspires others to organize something similar in the future. We encourage other organizers to inform the media about their own project and invite them to write about it. We can draw media attention by writing a press release or a short attractive description of the project. At Zavod Voluntariat and SCI, we give promotional material to the media representatives, so they can contact us for additional information. 26

The volunteers can also write an article about their camp experience and publish it in the media. The organizer or the camp coordinator should keep all the contributions found on the radio, television, online and in print and send them to Zavod Voluntariat. Also, the camp coordinator should not forget to record the camp events with a camera. The acquired material will continue to serve as promotional material for the local organizations and the activities of Zavod Voluntariat.

At the beginning of each year, Zavod Voluntariat publishes a tender for co-organizers of camps. The organizers can send the completed project to our head office until a certain date (this allows for better and earlier international promotion of the camp, full support and training opportunities organized by Zavod Voluntariat) or no later than two months before the start of camp. Applying for tender does not mean that Zavod Voluntariat will provide financial support for the selected projects. Zavod Voluntariat will, however, assemble an international group of volunteers, advise on the organization and offer the possibility of participating in professional seminars and trainings. When submitting the project application, it is necessary to pay special attention to a short description of the camp. This description should be brief and attractive, written in English and should include the main guidelines relating to work, accommodation, study theme and any special skills. The description will be published online where the volunteers can choose their camp. Do not forget to write whether the camp is suitable for people with disabilities or families.

EXAMPLE: ANA PLAMENITA FESTIVAL DESCRIPTION Organizers of Ana Desetnica, a very well known festival of street theatre, have last year decided to start a new event - festival of fire and call it Ana Plamenita (the Flames of Ana). With the use of simple fire elements - candles, torches and fire pots, the organizers will this year again intend to create a unique atmosphere along the paths and in the woods of Ljubljana Castle hill. They invite audiences to come and stroll around and enjoy the uniqueness of the atmosphere for one long night. Find out more: www.anamonro.org

WORK: The participants of the creative camp will be the core of the creative group

that will be in charge of the fire installations, which the public will be able to see. The first two days will be dedicated to a workshop where the participants will learn and explore how to use the elements of fire to create the fire installations. Then they will create concrete installations on the location and in the end invite people to see and enjoy them.

STUDY THEME: Creation of site-specific installations with fire elements (candles, torches, fire pots, etc.).

ACCOMMODATION: The participants will stay at a youth hostel, up to four people per room.

LANGUAGE: English QUALIFICATIONS: No special qualifications needed. Participants must be prepared to

work with fire at their own risk. Although the work is not dangerous, it demands care and caution. We encourage creative persons to apply, especially those with good visual and spatial sense. Artistic skills are an advantage.

NEAREST TERMINAL: Ljubljana is well connected with the world. You can easily

come to Ljubljana by car or train. By plane you can fly to Ljubljana airport (Easyjet!) and then use the airport transfer to get to town. Other nearby airports with cheap flights are Klagenfurt in Austria, Trieste, Venice, Venice Treviso (Italy) and Zagreb (Croatia). From there, you can reach Ljubljana by train or bus.

OTHER USEFUL INFO: the camp is not suitable for physically or mentally handicapped people; it is wheelchair accessible.

LEISURE TIME: Ljubljana offers all kinds of activities - cultural, sporting and others. COUNTRY: SLOVENIA Theme: Art, Culture, History START DATE: 8. 11. 2010 END DATE: 15. 11. 2010 NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS: 5

Minimum age limit for international volunteer work: 18 years. Maximum age limit for international volunteer work: 70 years. 28

Not later than one month before the start of camp, the organizer must send Zavod Voluntariat the information sheet (see sample in appendix). This information sheet must accurately describe the work, the accommodation, meals and means of transportation to the camp, include contact information and usefulwebsites, suggest that the participants get the European Health Insurance Card, draw attention to any special requirements (volunteers need to bring their sleeping bags, pillows, mosquito repellents, musical instruments...), etc. Before the start of camp, it is also important that the camp coordinator and the camp organizer make contact, get to know each other, familiarize themselves with the content and agree on the course, expectations and objectives of the project. 29

SCI INSURANCE FOR VOLUNTEERS

During camp, the volunteers and the camp coordinator are covered by the SCI insurance. Nevertheless, you have to inform the volunteers in the information sheet that they need additional insurance (European Health Insurance Card or any other convention signed by Slovenia), since some special conditions are not covered by the SCI insurance (for example: damage in the event of an epilepsy seizure, chronic diseases, problems related to pregnancy after the fifth month, etc.). SCI insurance policy covers only the costs of accidents at camp (the volunteers are in charge of their own travel insurance). In the case of injuries or illness, you must turn to the nearest doctor or hospital (avoid private clinics unless there is no other alternative) and immediately inform Zavod Voluntariat, where they will advise you on insurance. You must have the SCI insurance form with you (you can find it in the appendix), and it must be completed and signed by a doctor. 30

The first page must also be signed by the organizer and the insured person. In the event that the form and the other papers are not completed in English, French or German, make sure you have a translation. A copy of the form and all the invoices, prescriptions and referrals must be sent to the SCI International Secretariat in Belgium within two days after the first visit to the doctor. In case of a serious accident, injury or death, you must call the emergency telephone numbers within 24 hours and give an official accident report (if possible, it should be written by the police, otherwise create a list of people who witnessed the event). The instructions and the conditions of the insurance, which the camp coordinator must know, change every year. For this reason, Zavod Voluntariat sends to the camp coordinator the latest version of the insurance handbook and form as well as a list of emergency phone numbers before the start of camp.

VOLUNTEERS AT CAMP

The volunteers at camp come from all corners of the world. They are different from each other, so there are also differences in their motivation for participation in the project: Some volunteers sign up, because they want to do something useful during the holidays. Some volunteers want social justice and peace. Some volunteers want to learn about other countries and cultures and want to acquire new knowledge. Some want to learn, improve their English or other languages. To some volunteers, it is important to learn about group dynamics and to experience group life. Volunteers can register with the volunteer coordinator at Zavod Voluntariat. If the camp does not have specific requirements, then the selection is based on â&#x20AC;&#x153;first come - first serveâ&#x20AC;? principle. We do, however, strive to have a multicultural and diverse group, so there are only two participants of the same nationality within a group. We are also trying to maintain gender balance. In their application, volunteers should describe their skills, motivation, potential health problems, etc.. Depending on the camp, the organizer must inform the volunteer coordinator of any additional selection criteria (e.g. the volunteers are expected to have manual dexterity; the minimum age limit is 21; the volunteers have to write a letter of motivation, etc.). The incoming volunteer can also be further checked by our partner organizations. The organizer must nevertheless take into account the downside of applications and the possibility of last minute cancellations. If that happens, Zavod Voluntariat makes every effort to find a new volunteer, although that might not always be possible. In order for the camp to run smoothly and to ensure a good atmosphere, it is necessary to do a short evaluation of the volunteers, camp coordinator and organizer during camp, so that any trouble can be eliminated as soon as possible. Usually, somebody from Zavod Voluntariat makes a visit halfway through the camp and talks to all the participants. 31

CAMP COORDINATOR 32

WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A CAMP COORDINATOR In Spain, I was working at four different camps dealing with environmental issues. Managing a camp presented a great challenge, because unlike the volunteers - participants, I had more responsibility and had to ensure smooth communication between the local people and the volunteers. Before I attended my first camp, I was convinced that this would be a very difficult and demanding task, but I soon realized otherwise. Workcamps are based on an international group of volunteers and locals. All together, they become organizers, volunteers, and in the end, great friends. /The impressions of camp coordinator Nina Luin in Spain, 2009/

Working as a camp coordinator is an inspiring and unique adventure that includes discovering new things about yourself and hearing many stories about the lives of people from all over the world. This kind of experience can lead to charting new directions and paths. The camp coordinator is acting as a bridge between the organizer and the group of volunteers. His functions are best described with words such as: lead, organize, coordinate, cooperate and communicate. The camp coordinator is an equal member of a group of volunteers, so he should avoid hierarchical and authoritarian leadership, which can quickly lead to poor atmosphere and conflict at camp. It is important that the camp coordinator knows the work and the objectives of Zavod Voluntariat as well as the local organizer. It is also vital that he: is open to intercultural learning, has ideas for the study theme and the accompanying program at camp, has visited the camp or been informed of the camp location and organization and knows them both well, is the main representative of Zavod Voluntariat, works with the project coordinator and the organization, communicates with the camp participants, doctors, the media and the local authorities, is well informed about the conditions at camp and its surroundings (the price of food, public transport, etc.)

The camp coordinator has to be open to the participants' suggestions and plan with them leisure and social activities. He must not forget about the organizational plan and the organizers' expectations. To avoid problems, it is important that the camp coordinator regularly performs shorter informal evaluations within the group, and that he is prepared to compromise. If the camp coordinator gets romantically involved with one of the participants, he needs to be careful that the relationship does not have a negative impact on the group dynamics. Camp coordinators listed the following qualities as most important for their work: flexibility, creativity, innovativeness, communicativeness, energy, openness to the views of others, empathy, honesty, attentiveness, obedience, perceptiveness, ingenuity, patience (you must be prepared to answer endless questions), determination, competence, organizational skills, kind-heartedness, sense of humor, responsibility, charisma, good judgement, ability to observe and praise, self-reflection. The camp coordinator should not forget about his own wishes and expectations. Since he is usually very busy at camp, he should answer the following questions prior to the project:

What do I expect to gain by participating at camp? What do I expect from volunteers? How and where will I find enough personal space? How to meet my expectations and the need to have fun, learn and socialize while at the same time find enough energy to successfully run a camp? Who can I turn to for advice and support? Before the start of camp, we need to decide who will be in charge: a camp may have two coordinators â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a camp coordinator and a camp co-coordinator. What tasks they will do is a matter of agreement between them and the organizer. At Zavod Voluntariat, we believe that the camp coordinator should come from the local environment or be a part of the organization which organizes the camp. In this way, he will already be familiar with the objectives and the content of the project and will know what opportunities the local surroundings offer. Each year Zavod Voluntariat carries out a multi-day training for the camp coordinators. The camp coordinator will be the first person that the volunteers will come to with many questions regarding work, leisure, nearby shops and bars, etc., therefore, he needs to be familiar with these topics. Some camps also have a project coordinator, whose mission is to lead and guide the volunteers through their work, give them tasks and prepare daily work plans.

CHOOSE YOUR OWN LEADERSHIP STYLE The bureaucrat – is reliable, strong, formal and polite; he displays an aloof leadership style and follows the rules and procedures. The developer – displays people-oriented leadership style, encourages the volunteers and helps them grow. The benevolent autocrat – is determined, encouraging, hard working and aimed at achieving great results while fulfilling his obligations. The democrat – displays integrating leadership style, supports teamwork and joint decision-making. The deserter – is not communicative, accomplishes minimal results and stands in the way of other people’s creativity. The missionary – is honest, avoids conflicts, likes to please other people and depends on them; he does not give any instructions and is not interested in the results. The autocrat – is critical, makes his own decisions, demands subordination, communicates only by giving instructions; the volunteers are afraid of him. The compromiser – is two-faced, avoids decisions, makes compromises; the volunteers do not trust him. Management based on exceptions – the camp coordinator deals with exceptions

and refuses to handle anything that does not pertain to management; he delegates the volunteers.

Management based on decision-making rules is management according to the written rules. This kind of management is possible only if all the events in question are known in advance. Management based on motivation – the camp coordinator and the volunteers work together, but also have the option of independent work.

BEFORE CAMP The first step that the camp coordinator must do is to contact and meet with the organization, which must thoroughly present to him its values and policies as well as the project and its objectives. Together, they then agree on the expectations, tasks and responsibilities that they both have. The camp coordinator must explore the surroundings of the camp: what are the options for leisure activities; where are the shops, the hospital, the bus station; how is the local transport organized, etc. Together with the organizers, he can decide on the program of the camp: what will a typical day at camp look like, what kind of study theme and social activities he will choose, and how he will perform the evaluation. The camp coordinator can help the organizer prepare the information sheet (see appendix for an example).

Before camp, Zavod Voluntariat will send the camp coordinator all the applications from the volunteers coming to the camp, so he can write them beforehand to welcome them, get to know them, enquire about their arrival, suggest them to bring games, musical instruments, etc., and the volunteers can contact him in case of any questions. A week before the start of camp, the camp coordinator should check what exactly does he need and what he can bring with him: recipes, music, games, paper, pens, etc. He must not forget the SCI insurance forms and he must read the instructions again. As some volunteers go traveling after camp, the camp coordinator should also stop by the tourist information points and gather some promotional material about the local area and Slovenia.

AT CAMP The camp coordinator can arrive at camp a day or two early. The volunteers will be trickling in, so it is good that he knows when to expect the whole group. He must not forget to prepare a snack for when they arrive! The first day the camp coordinator needs to make sure that the volunteers get to know each other. He must show them the facilities, present the work with the camp organizer, make a plan for the following day and, if necessary, select a cooking and shopping team. Together with the organizer and the volunteers, he should adopt the rules and agreements that they will all respect throughout the camp. At camp, the camp coordinator will usually deal with tasks such as: making a daily plan (the plan should be displayed in the common room), waking up the volunteers, coordinating working groups, arranging social activities, etc.. During camp, he needs to save all the invoices, and if possible, also be in charge of photo documentation. The camp coordinator can keep a record of all the camp events and in the end with the help of other volunteers prepare a contribution for the local and other media. He should continuously maintain contact with the organization and Zavod Voluntariat.

What does a typical day at camp look like? 07:00 - getting up 07:30 - breakfast (Michael and Catherina prepare and clean the room) 08.00 - work meeting in the dining room with the camp coordinator Magnus 08:15 - 10:15 - work 10:15 - 10:30 - coffee break, fruit 10:30 - 14:30 - work 14.30 - lunch (Martin, Marianna and Caroline prepare and clean the room) 15:30 - 17:00 - work 17:30- leisure time, social activities, study theme, a trip 19.30 - dinner (Nicole, Hans and Peter prepare and clean the room) 20.30 - social evening, games, dancing, etc.

AFTER CAMP At the end of camp, it is important to carry out a longer group evaluation. This can be done by the camp coordinator himself or a representative of Zavod Voluntariat who will visit the camp. Thanks to modern technology, keeping in touch with long-distance friends is not a problem, so the camp coordinator can gather all the participants' contact information and make a group mailing list, open a web account where they can all post photos, create a public profile on one of the social networks, etc.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The most beautiful part of my camp experience? Friendships that have started at camp and will last a lifetime. Each year we meet again somewhere, either as a whole group, or we visit each other if we are traveling nearby. And there is nothing better than having a roof over your head in different parts of the world. Then you feel like you are a true citizen of the world!

Volunteer Sasha

â&#x20AC;?

CAMP DYNAMICS People can behave differently in groups than they do as individuals. Thus, the behaviour of a group can become completely chaotic. It often happens that a group is less effective in comparison to the combined results of individuals working separately. But then there are also groups which are more successful due to the connection and cooperation of its members. One such group is camp, where the entire team is striving to achieve a common goal which can be pragmatic (physical work) or more spiritual (with a conceptual camp theme - yoga workshops, workshops on human rights, peace, etc.). For camps, it is therefore very important to have good teamwork.

There are five key characteristics of teams: Teams are designed to achieve certain objectives. The members depend on each other to achieve common goals. The members and non-members of the team are defined; the members are together for a long period of time. The members can influence the course of their work and the processes within the team. The teams operate within a larger social system.

A GROUP DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

/that can occur between the volunteers and the camp coordinator The basic steps of the group development process can be divided into: FORMING At the beginning of a group activity, there is great uncertainty, so the individuals avoid contact with others and isolate themselves. The volunteers expect that the camp coordinator will save an awkward situation, assign the tasks, set boundaries, etc.. Especially the weaker members try to establish a relationship with the camp coordinator and pretend that they are not interested in other members. This stage is also important, because it tests the limit of camp coordinatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and groupsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tolerance.

STORMING Longing for symbiosis with the camp coordinator can cause envy and rivalry. The group moves to the stage of internal conflict. This stage is characterized by struggle, competition and jealousy. Sometimes envy and rivalry lead to competitiveness, which destroys the group dynamics. During this period, subgroups may appear. Processes at this stage resemble role differentiation and certain individuals try to prevent the group from breaking up. NORMING This stage is characterized by the integration of members into a cohesive unit. The group works towards staying together. The members work first in pairs and then start functioning as a group. When the power relations stabilize, then the structure of the group stabilizes. The members begin to create a group culture and group norms. The collective consciousness is awakened and the members all strive towards a common goal. The cooperation is based on trust and the problems can be addressed on a very intimate level. Competitiveness is replaced by cooperation and mutual support. In most groups, the atmosphere is good enough to support individualization more than conformism. PERFORMING The basic characteristic of this stage is work efficiency. It allows diversity and through it searches for new opportunities. This stage of development puts the group in an autonomous position when in contact with other groups. The development requires good communication and time. It is important to note that this level is not reached by every group or by every individual in it. COMMUNICATION We distinguish verbal, non-verbal, conscious, unconscious, intentional, unintentional, understandable and incomprehensible communication. The group leader must try to encourage the members to take an active role. Our first contact with the outside world is through our senses, which make us aware of the external events. Every information passes through our internal filters, which are our values, beliefs, attitudes, memories and decisions that determine our behaviour. Our experience is thus something which we create internally - and this applies to all those involved in the communication process.

OTHER FACTORS OF TEAM WORK /that may occur at camp

Leaders who practise attentive and active listening of other members’ opinions. Leaders who are not interested and listen without making any comments. Group members with an attentive leader who listens to their ideas are more motivated to complete their task and achieve their goal more easily. These members are also more connected and trust their leader more.

Conflicts Within a group, conflicts may arise in different areas. They may occur between the volunteers or because of a disagreement about the content of the task. For more information on conflicts at camp, see “When a conflict occurs”.

Cooperation A sufficient degree of cooperation is a positive predictor of general performance and personal satisfaction. It also contributes to the connectedness of the group.

Cohesiveness and coherence An individual does not develop a relationship only with his leader, but also with the other members of the group and this is what the term coherence represents - the invisible force that holds the members together in a group. Cohesiveness refers to the energy of all group members. In a cohesive group, the members tend to express and disclose their personality.

The role of an individual The scapegoat phenomenon occurs in all groups. The group members attack a certain person - a scapegoat - because they are afraid to attack the actual person they are angry at. The frequent occurrence of the scapegoat phenomenon is a sign that the members have problems with expressing aggression and feeling guilt. When a new member appears, the group has difficulty accepting and tolerating him, because he disturbs their sense of community within the group. The group can only work if the new member is assimilated or eliminated. The monopolist is the one who fills the silence in the group. In this way, he occupies the main position in the group, does not see the other members of the group as equals and has no need for feedback in communication. The group develops a feeling of repulsion towards the monopolist. This generates in him a feeling of worthlessness and self-hatred, which makes him talk even more in order to relieve his anxiety. Some members join the leader, copy him, work for him or instead of him. These are called parallel leaders. Such members may become destructive for the group. The invisible parallel leader is a phenomenon which is sometimes very difficult to identify. The weakest member of the group is the one who fears exclusion from the group and never exposes himself to the communication with others. It may take some time before he can start to develop normal relationships with the other members.

WHEN A CONFLICT OCCURS During camp, the camp coordinator usually has to deal with at least one conflict within the group. Conflicts may arise between the volunteers themselves, between the volunteers and the camp coordinator, the organizer, etc.. Normally, they occur because of a misunderstanding, lack of knowledge or communication. The issues are best addressed early, before they turn into open conflicts. It is recommended that the camp coordinator maintains contact with the volunteers on an individual and group level. An effective way to detect friction are regular meetings - evaluations. If the camp coordinator or any other camp participant does not agree with something, then that issue should be discussed.

EVALUATION AT CAMP SOTOČJE IN BREŽICE A colorful group has gathered at camp Sotočje. Six international volunteers did the work with the help of two volunteers from the European Voluntary Service, a young trainee from the ERASMUS program and a few supporters from the local youth. During camp, we have intertwined different views on development and events at camp, which was due to the diversity of the group completely expected. In order to resolve potential problems in time and prevent the emergence of major troubles, the organizers prepared daily evaluation questionnaires. These questionnaires were related to work, camp leadership, other activities and food. They also enabled the participants to have their own detailed opinions on the course of the day. Until close ties and trust have been established between the participants, the evaluation questionnaires provided a good method by which the organizers could adapt the daily course of the camp, so that the participants were satisfied as much as possible. After a few days, the questionnaires became useless, because the closer contacts between the participants also meant similar results on the evaluation sheets. Thus, the method was replaced with a new

approach – the participants were given a small sheet of paper and they could write down the things that bothered them during the day and the things they liked most. This approach helped to avoid repeated answers on the basis of a unified form and produced more written responses, comments and praise. In the third phase of the camp, when the organizers and the participants were already connected to each other almost on the level of friendship and the boundaries between those who "give order" and those who "execute" got thoroughly blurred, the evaluations became merely conversational and quite informal. At the end of the activity, the participants attended a final, formal evaluation, which the organizers introduced at the start of camp, and covered the general impression of the camp, the activities and the organization. For the camp coordinator, it is important to monitor the development of group dynamics and to assess the ties between the participants and the organizers of the camp. Accordingly, he must adapt the form of evaluation in order to obtain genuine and useful answers. /Jernej Agrež, leader and project coordinator at camp Sotočje in Brežice, 2010 / 43

The camp coordinator needs to understand that conflicts which arise between the individuals mean trouble for the whole camp. Therefore, every participant should help resolve these conflicts. The camp coordinator must observe and pay attention to the different situations which the volunteers do not mention, but might lead to potential tension. In such cases, it is good to have a talk with one of the volunteers and inquire about the problems within the group. At camp, there should be a tolerant atmosphere that allows individuals to express themselves freely.

ADVICE: At camp, you can make a book or a box. The volunteers can use it to write down their problems, concerns, opinions, interests and issues, which should then be discussed at the next group meeting. Disagreements between the individuals and the group should be resolved through communication. These individuals or the group should propose the solutions and compromises. If no solution is possible, the camp organizer can intervene in the process. In extreme cases, the camp coordinator, supported by the organizer, has the right to expel the problematic volunteer from the project if he poses danger to other volunteers. But this can only happen after a thorough consultation and a prior notice must be given to Zavod Voluntariat.

CONFLICTS THAT OFTEN OCCUR AT CAMPS Discrimination on the basis of nationality This kind of discrimination is particularly difficult, because no one is willing to admit to having prejudice and everyone prefers to discuss this on a “theoretical” level (for example: “I cannot talk to this person, because I do not understand enough of his/ her language.”). The intention of an international camp is to overcome such prejudice. This can be achieved only with intensive communication based on common interests.

Outsiders Sometimes there are camp members who do not join the group and remain either alone or team up in small, isolated groups. This can be the result of various factors, such as individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personality, language, age, etc.. If at all possible, the camp coordinator should try to make these volunteers part of the group. He can try to reduce the size of the groups for a short time and include these individuals in a working group with one or two other members. Otherwise, it is better to leave them alone. During camp, there can also be tasks which can be performed by one or two people.

Language barriers There can be a volunteer at camp who speaks very little English or does not understand it at all. Is there perhaps another volunteer at camp who can speak his language? The camp coordinator can also help the volunteer with non-verbal activities (games, sports, music, pantomime). In such a case, it is also important to emphasize and demonstrate the instructions for work and other activities.

Age difference Age difference can lead to problems. Most of the volunteers at camps are between 18 and 30 years old. Sometimes camps accept volunteers in their late 30s, 40s or 50s and older. In this case, the camp coordinator should make every effort to include the older volunteers in all the camp activities and at the same time be considerate to them and ask them for advice, when it is appropriate. Even when the camp coordinator is younger than the volunteers, he should still try to retain his leadership position.

Different moods If the volunteers discover that their views and reasons for participating in the project differ, frustration may arise. Some people need a longer break and some want to work longer. Others wonder why their task is important and focus more on learning and getting information on a particular topic. Sometimes work projects can be tailored to individual preferences, but sometimes an individual must adapt to the demands of the group. The camp coordinator should be flexible and should try to consider both sides. He should also take into account the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s privacy when that is necessary.

Different opinions Life and work at camp take place within a very colorful group. Difficulties may arise due to different customs, religious beliefs, moral values, gender roles and political views. Communication is the key to understanding.

Work problems Lack of work or work-related problems will have a negative impact on all other aspects of camp. Usually, the volunteersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations do not match the actual work. For some there is not enough work, others do not like the organizerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schedule, etc. Such situations can be avoided with a clear and precise agreement between the host of the project and the project coordinator before (in this case, the volunteers also need to be informed in advance) or during camp. If there is a change in the nature of work, the project coordinator must explain why it happened and why it is necessary.

The issue of alcohol, drugs and smoking Check the laws that apply to the country where the camp takes place. At the beginning of camp, set clear rules concerning the use of alcohol, drugs and smoking. IN SLOVENIA, IT IS ILLEGAL TO: sell or offer alcoholic beverages or beverages with added alcohol to persons under the age of 18, enable a person under the age of 18 to drink alcoholic beverages in a public place or offer an underage person alcohol in a public place.

Gender issue This issue should also be included in the initial phase of the camp and discussed with the volunteers as well as the organizer. At camp, there are people who come from different backgrounds and can interpret physical contact (e.g. a hug or even a hand on the shoulder) in different ways. Some camps do not encourage romantic relationships and even prevent them in order to protect the group dynamics. Some camps simply point them out, and others welcome them. The attitude towards this issue is largely related to the moral principles of the organizer, so it is important to set clear rules before the camp. In any case, it is advisable to keep condoms in the first aid kit.

CAMP COORDINATOR AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES After work is completed and hunger appeased, the volunteers have their free time, which they can use in different ways. Some volunteers rest, some read, and some want to socialize with the other volunteers and participate in fun group activities. The camp coordinator must therefore think of different ideas before the start of camp and explore the possibilities in the area where the camp takes place.

But remember: the camp coordinator is not an independent entertainer. Before the camp coordinator adds leisure activities to the daily schedule (which should then hang in the common area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; dining room or shared bedroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so the participants can look at it at any time and be up to date on all the events), he should talk to the organizer and the volunteers about their interests and wishes.

As a camp coordinator you should: encourage the volunteers to present their country and culture, games, cuisine, music, dance, etc., invite the volunteers with special talents or skills to share them with the others, not forget different games such as volleyball, frisbee, sack race etc., which can also be fun, prepare activities or competitions and invite people from the local community to participate (e.g. football match, workshops for children, dance workshop, campfire). offer visits to museums and farms, organize tours, excursions, biking, hiking trips, try to visit the local residents and present and explain to them the idea of an international voluntary project and the theme of your camp.

ADVICE: If you are thinking about organizing activities that require a day or even two, try to schedule them in the first few days of camp. These activities can include trips, excursions, group visits to a museum or camping adventures. They all contribute to more intensive networking and construction of group dynamics and also give the volunteers the opportunity to get to know each other. Going on a two-day canoe trip through the national park, watching otters in the evening and socializing around the campfire in the early days of camp connected the volunteers together in a solid group and helped form friendly ties, which got stronger during the camp.

Games Games contribute to a more positive atmosphere, motivation, learning and strengthening of relations among the volunteers. It is important that the camp coordinator always has a few games in mind, which can be used in different situations. However, he must be careful not to suggest challenging language games, because the participants can have different levels of group language proficiency. It is also best to avoid games which involve physical contact, at least until the members get to know each other better. The rules of the game can be explained during breaks or before the activity. Game suggestions made by the volunteers are also welcome.

Social games For the colorful groups of volunteers found at camps, the social games are very useful, because the participants come in contact with each other and bond. This leads to the development of solidarity, mutual help and understanding of diversity, which is of great importance for the atmosphere at camp. With the use of social games, the camp coordinator can establish a more equal, direct and friendly relationship with the volunteers and learn more about them. At camp, the volunteers can play games that contribute to mutual understanding, group dynamics, trust, communication, conflict resolution, exercise before work, etc. The camp coordinator must adapt the social games according to the age of the volunteers and groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cohesion. The camp coordinator should not worry about any potential comments made by the volunteers. There will always be some participants who will not like these games.

Hiking Slovenia is a country with beautiful hills and mountains. Just by looking at them, they invite us to climb them. If such an opportunity arises during camp, it is necessary to take into consideration the following instructions: If the tour is scheduled before the start of camp, we must inform the volunteers with a notice on the website and, more importantly, write it in the information sheet. We do not set on difficult, unmarked trails. Instead, we choose easier tours, visit learning paths, etc. We check the weather report and the weather conditions in the mountains. We check our physical and mental state as well as the volunteersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and do not

overestimate ourselves.

We find a mountain guide who can tell us about the difficulty levels of the hike. We enquire if there is a cabin or a mountain hut on our way and if it is open. We make sure we have the necessary equipment and check that every individual has it as well (suitable, warm and waterproof clothing and footwear, hat, gloves, head lamp, etc.), We must have a cell phone with us (112 - Mountain Rescue Service, telephone number of the cabin or mountain hut). We make a detailed plan of the tour and inform another person, who is not joining the hike, about it. Every individual should carry an appropriate amount of water and food. Before the hike, we organize the volunteers into pairs. Each individual must follow his pair during the hike. By using this method, we can avoid losing somebody. We walk as a group and take breaks (especially if some participants walk slowly).

ANNEXES

AT CAMP, I THINK GREEN! ECOLOGICAL HANDBOOK FOR CAMP COORDINATORS Do I make a difference if I buy an organic small brown-spotted banana, instead of a twice as expensive larger beautiful yellow banana? Do I impact the global situation if I buy tea from a fair trade shop? Does it make a difference if I shower for ten minutes every other day, instead of taking a bath? We often hear serious warnings about dying forests, poisoned water and depletion of the ozone layer. As individuals, we might feel helpless and shut our eyes to the ecological problems in the hope that the politicians and scientists will find a solution. But we can all contribute to the solution. What can we do? The camp coordinator has the possibility and the responsibility to act as an example and show the volunteers that an individual can contribute to change. The following tips will help show how we can all (directly or indirectly) treat the environment in a more careful and respectful way and reduce negative impacts of the camp on a local, national and global level.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE BEFORE CAMP STARTS TRAVELING TO CAMP In the information sheet, try to encourage the volunteers to travel to camp using environmentally friendly modes of transportation. Frequent flying, which has in recent years become the most popular and comfortable way of traveling, is at the same time becoming a major threat to the environment. Airplanes use large amounts of energy and emit a lot of carbon dioxide and other toxic gases. Find and prepare information on trains and buses, which can take the volunteers to camp, and include them in the information sheet. Thus, you will encourage the volunteers to use public transport. 51

LEISURE ACTIVITIES Think about leisure activities: perhaps it is possible to take a nature walk nearby or to invite an environmental protection specialist to camp, etc.. Find out about the local environmental issues and then discuss them with the volunteers. You can organize an environmental workshop at camp. Find out about the options for renting bicycles that you and the volunteers can use for shorter trips. BEFORE STARTING WORK If possible, try to encourage the organizer to find accommodation near the place of work. Thus, you will avoid the use of transport to and from work. If the work involves the use of chemicals, try to talk to the organizer and advise him to use eco-friendly products. For example, synthetic paint contains many toxic and for the environment destructive ingredients. Try to avoid them and use "environmentally friendly" dyes. Many cleaning products contain hazardous and harmful ingredients which end up in the water. If possible, use the organic detergents. WASTE Ask the organizer about the possibilities of sorting and recycling waste at camp (if there are such trash bins in the area). Do not forget to use separate bins for different types of waste such as organic waste, glass, paper, metal, batteries and medical waste. The process of recycling is not the same in all countries, so it is important that the volunteers get clear instructions! If recycling is not possible, there may be the option of composting. Enquire about the possibilities and suggest this idea to the organizer. Composting of household waste will reduced the amount of waste destined for the landfill by half. To produce compost, you need a few square meters of land and a container (and old container with no bottom). Composting is a long-term solution, so it is necessary to later continue the project. Good compost does not smell, and in the end you will get the ingredients for improving the soil and fertile basis for planting. Composting is a long term project, so it will not be suitable for all camps. 52

You can also pile up household waste: fruit and vegetable peels, tea bags, coffee residues, etc. You can also compost garden waste such as grass clippings, leaves, flowers, trimmed trees as well as cardboard and paper. It is not recommended to compost: meat and fish bones, dairy products, pet waste, cigarette butts, colored paper and artificial ingredients. In the bathroom, there should be cloth towels instead of paper. Make two-sided copies of the information sheet.

FOOD Enquire about special labels and brands which are indicating organic products The difference in the use of labels:

ECOLOGICAL: mandatory EU label for Slovenia. BIO: mandatory EU label for Germany, Italy and Austria. ORGANIC: mandatory label used in Anglo-Saxon countries. Try to establish contact with the nearby farms and arrange to buy locally grown food from them. Also, do not forget to ask if they have animals which you could feed with leftover food. At SeÄ?ovlje salt pans work camp, the camp coordinator makes sure in advance that a local farmer will always deliver biologically grown vegetables and fruit.

WHAT TO DO DURING CAMP? SHOPPING When doing the shopping, try to consider the following tips: Avoid plastic bags, instead use your own bags. Very handy are reusable fabric bags. Check how the product is packaged. Avoid food products with excessive packaging and instead choose tightly wrapped packages. Avoid frozen and processed food. Buy reusable bottles. Try to buy organic food or food from nearby farms and shop in stores which are located closest to the camp. Save energy. Choose food produced locally, which has not traveled thousands of miles to your refrigerator. MENU Prepare tasty meals! Discuss the menu and the selection of food with the whole group. Try to limit the amount of meat products. It is common knowledge that we use less energy and other resources for growing vegetables. Also, the consumption of vegetarian food opposes the animal agriculture that often involves animals which suffer from poor living conditions and cruelty. Your body might not function properly if you eat only vegetarian food. If you think that meat and fish are necessary, then we suggest that you prepare just one meal a day which will be entirely vegetarian. Try to prepare the right amount of food. If there are any leftovers, save them for later or feed the nearby cat or dog.

WASTE When confronted with materials and waste, it is best to think in the following order: Reduce. Try to think how you can avoid the accumulation of waste at camp. Reuse. Many materials can be reused, especially paper products. Recycle. When waste cannot be avoided or is not suitable for re-use. Separate waste into different containers if there is that possibility at camp. Use both sides of paper and reuse old paper (e.g. for notes). Use old clothes to clean dust. If the organizer has compost, use it. Flattened cans and cardboard take up less space.

Dilute the detergent with water, so you can use it longer. Do not pour any chemicals, including paints, down the drain. Find out who can remove toxic waste and contact these services. If you are camping, make sure you impact the environment as little as possible. In the end, clean the camping ground and leave it like it was before you arrived. DURING WORK If the accommodation is not located near the workplace, try to use bicycles or public transport. If your work is in the mountains, do not use shortcuts, because this can cause erosion and landslides. LEISURE TIME Do not use plastic plates, cups and utensils. Leave the picnic area such as it was when you arrived. After picnic, organize a small clean-up and also remove waste that was there before your arrival. Try to avoid using motor vehicles. Cycling can be a fun, healthy and eco-friendly way of travelling during camp. Use bicycles or public transport to places you would like to visit. ENERGY Be an example for the volunteers: do not use energy and water if it is not necessary; warn the volunteers who waste it. Group cooking is a great way to save energy. When airing out a room, try to be fast and efficient. Do not waste heated or cooled air. During the summer, the sun can heat the water for showering.

DEFINITION OF TEAM ROLES THAT WILL HELP YOU UNDERSTAND THE INTERACTION BETWEEN THE PARTICIPANTS PLANT

SHAPER

Plants are innovators and inventors and can be extremely creative. They encourage the changes with new ideas. They usually prefer to work alone, apart from the other team members. At work, they are often imaginative and unconventional. They are independent, smart and original, but have difficulty communicating with other people. Plants are good at creating new proposals and solving largescale problems. They are often needed in the early stages of a project, or when a project is at a standstill. Too many plants at camp can reduce the effectiveness of the project as they spend a lot of time exercising their ideas and causing friction.

Shapers often come across as aggressive extroverts with a lot of energy. They like to challenge people and always want to win. They also like to lead and promote activity. When a problem occurs, they know how to get around it. Because they are stubborn and aggressive, they respond emotionally to disappointments and failures. They are argumentative and lack human understanding. They are excellent at stimulating the team. Shapers are able to rise above any problems and lead. They make the necessary changes and carry out unpleasant measures without hesitation. As the name implies, they try to get a group discussion or action in some sort of shape or context. They are probably the most efficient members, who take positive actions.

RESOURCE INVESTIGATOR Resource investigators are sociable and enthusiastic. They communicate well, are born negotiators and adept at exploring new opportunities and developing contacts. Although they are not inventive and original, they quickly snap up other people's ideas and improve them. Due to their sociability, they usually receive a warm welcome. Resource investigators are relaxed personalities with a great deal of curiosity and willingness to explore something new.

MONITOR/EVALUATOR Monitors/evaluators are serious, rational people, who never get excited. They take their time when making a decision and consider things very carefully. Usually, they like to compare things. They make good decisions while taking into account different factors. A good monitor/evaluator is rarely wrong. He feels right at home in analyzing problems and evaluating ideas and suggestions. 57

Monitors/evaluators weigh the pros and cons of all the options. They can be often perceived as tedious, boring and even overly critical.

TEAMWORKER Teamworkers offer the best support to the team. They are gentle, warm-hearted and concerned for others. They very quickly adapt to different situations and people. Teamworkers are perceptive and diplomatic. They can listen and are generally popular within a group. Their work is carried out sensitively, but they are indecisive in critical situations. Teamworkers prevent conflicts in the team and enable others to work together effectively. Because they do not like quarrels, they make great effort to avoid them. The team awareness improves in their presence and team members cooperate better.

IMPLEMENTER Implementers are well organized. They like routine and have a sense of practicality and self-discipline. They look forward to hard work and solve problems systematically. They are not spontaneous and often act rigidly. An implementer does all that is necessary, even the unpleasant things.

COMPLETER/FINISHER The completers/finishers make sure that the projects are completed thoroughly. They pay attention to the smallest of details and rarely engage in things they cannot complete. They are motivated by their concern, although they may look calm on the outside. They do not like superficiality and cannot stand sloppy people. 58

Their attitude can cause conflicts at camp. Since they are reluctant to give work to others, they complete all the tasks on their own. At camp, they create a sense of urgency and successfully meet deadlines.

SPECIALIST Specialists are dedicated people who take pride in their technical skills and specialized knowledge. Their preoccupation is to maintain a professional level and to develop or defend their own professional field. While they are very proud of their work, they are normally not interested in other people or their work. At camp, they are appreciated, because they are more knowledgeable than others and can make decisions based on extensive experience.

APPENDICES

SAMPLE INFORMATION SHEET (INFOSHEET-A) Before the start of camp, the volunteers receive the information sheet, which tells them what to take with them, where to go, how to get there and what means of transport to choose. This infosheet also includes the information about the exact time and place of the meeting. This sample information sheet was used by a camp organized at Sečovlje Salina Nature Park in 2009 and only serves as an example of how one might look.

SI-SCI 9.1 THE SALTPANS - SEČOVLJE INTERNATIONAL ETHNOLOGICAL - RENOVATION WORKCAMP SOLINE - SALTPANS Date of the workcamp: JULY 10 - JULY 23, 2009 Organizer: The Sečovlje saltpans international ethnological and renovation camp, which is in charge of Sečovlje Salina Nature Park in co-operation with VOLUNTARIAT SCI SLOVENIA.

Camp background and its aims: The Saltpans of Sečovlje boast with technical and ethnological heritage (UNESCO Convention on wetlands), which is of great importance for the existence of the littoral ecosystem. The camp will help stop the disappearance of the picturesque Mediterranean landscape. Volunteers will contribute to the reactivation of saltpans with the aim of recreating the traditional way of producing salt. Museum of salt-making is one of the dislocated units of Pomorski muzej. Its located in the heart of the Sečovlje Salt-pans, its a collection in its original environment. It is the unit that generates most of the museums income with the highest number of visitors. Most of the museums visitors are primary and secondary schools of Slovenia, followed by groups of seniors both domestic and foreign, while the individual visitors come in smaller numbers compared to the groups, however they are treated equally or even better as them, as the student guides (from different areas of studies, currently students of geography, politology, tourism in the past also students of maritime, german, chinese and other studies) give them a more in-depth explanation and perspective of the picturesque salt-pans and comparison between current affairs in the country and its history, explaining the fate of the salt-pans under different countries, regimes, lifestyle and last but not least the fate of the people working, living, feeling with the salt-pans. 61

The 13th International Volunteer camp participants will partake in the experience of living and working in the salt-pans, almost as in the past. The modern day lifestyle is not strictly restricted in the museum, except activities and products that are harmful to the sensitive environment. With this thoughts in their minds, participants will play as role models, through their work , resourcefulness, modest living and feeling with the environment. For such a unique experience it would be a shame not to share it with others, less fortunate, who can not partake to it. This is the reason that the volunteers are encouraged (but not forced) to talk with the museum visitors, journalists and others in their spare time. This will help to promote positive humane values in the country. KEY part of the workcamp will naturally be salt-making and other essential maintenance work for the museum.

Place and accomodation: The workcamp will be located in the landscape park of Sečovlje Saltpans which is situated on the Slovenian coast on the border with the neighbouring country of Croatia. The closest towns are Portorož/Portorose (9 km) and Piran/Pirano (13 km). Accommodation will be provided in the old house used for storing salt. We will live in the upper floor where there is a small flat. It was used by the saltmen in the past. There is no electricity and no running water. We will be supplied with the water from the canisters from the closest village. Showering will be improvised, but keep in mind that there is the possibility of taking a bath in the sea anytime (it’s just 100 meters away from our house). Meals will be prepared by the volunteers themselves in a small kitchen; therefore recipes of national dishes are therefore more than welcome!

Number of participants: 6 participants are accepted from abroad and there will be two Slovenian workcamp leaders.

Camp language: English

Scope of the work: 1. Reconstructing salt fields. 2. Help Rinaldo, the last saltman, with the traditional salt-harvesting 3. Raising awareness through the media. The work is demanding especially because of the summer heat (daily maximum temperatures are above 30°C). Therefore we are expecting highly motivated volunteers with a sense for self-initiative. 62

Study theme: Introduction of the saltpan ecosystem and the history given by the curators from the museum. Lecture about Slovenia in general. Lecture about the Slovenian history (optional, not in one part)

Other activities: Cycling tours around the Slovenian coastal area or hiking tours to one of the Istrian hills which offer a good view of the seaside (optional) Other suggestions are more than welcome

What to bring: A sleeping bag A mattress (optional) Light summer shoes, A hat/cap (average temperature during the day is above 30 째C), Sunscreen (solar cream, factor over 15 - VERY IMPORTANT!), Swimming suits, Insect repellent, Towel, A few warm clothes, Good footwear, A flashlight, Working gloves and rubber shoes if you have them, Recipes of your national dishes and drinks - each day will be one national day, Tapes or CDs of folk music and dances typical for your country, All other games / things that will help you spend active weeks at the camp, Plenty of goodwill to spend two unforgettable weeks in Slovenia - we assure we will have lots of fun and at the same time do useful work.

Meeting point and time: The meeting point is in the Maritime Museum of Sergej Mašera in the town of Piran (15 km west from Koper-Capodistria). The museum is situated by the street in front of the port of Piran near Tartini Square. Uncle Google also provided some satellite pictures and route descriptions for you on this webpage. Click the link below: http://bit.ly/16Blmpv Full address is: Pomorski muzej Sergej Mašera Piran Cankarjevo nabrežje 3 SI - 6330 Piran Slovenia We will be expecting you on Friday, July 10th 2009 at 12.00. Please inform us how you will travel on: xxx xxx or xxx xxx (give telephone or email) You can reach us by: - E-mail: xxx - GSM: xxx - Mail address: Pomorski muzej “Sergej Mašera” Piran Cankarjevo nabrežje 3 SI - 6330 Piran Slovenia In case you are late or have other problems, you can contact us by telephone (Museum): from Abroad: +386 *** from Ljubljana: *** from the Coast: *** If you have any doubts, do not hesitate and contact us before the beginning of workcamp at the ORGANIZING COMMITTEE OFFICE: POMORSKI MUZEJ SERGEJ MAŠERA PIRAN Cankarjevo nabrežje 3 SI - 6330 Piran Slovenia fax: +386 *** E-mail: xxx contact persons: Mrs, Mr … We wish you a safe and pleasant journey. We are looking forward to meeting you in Slovenia. Your campleaders 64

Schedules for trains and buses going to the meeting point in Piran/Pirano: Please keep in mind that Pirano is an Italian name for Piran as well as Capodistria is an Italian name for Koper. You will notice both names written together and separated with slash (/) in accordance with the minority regulations. HOW TO GET TO PIRAN/PIRANO FROM LJUBLJANA (130 km): BY BUS: From the Ljubljana central bus station (next to Ljubljana railway station). Departures from Ljubljana and arrivals to Piran/Pirano: E** 06:00 – 08:56, E 06:30 – 9:11, E 8:00 – 10:39, E 10:00 – 12:33, E 13:45 – 16:25, E*15:00 – 17:56, E 17:00 – 19:47. • • • E – Every day, E* - Every day except Saturdays E** every day except Saturdays and Sundays • • • The ticket from Ljubljana to Piran/Pirano costs about 11 EUR. For the exact timetable, please check the following website: http://www.ap-ljubljana. si/eng/ BY TRAIN: From Ljubljana railway station you can take the train to KOPER. Departures from Ljubljana and arrivals to Koper/Capodistria: 4:12 – 6:42 (only Saturdays) 5:55 – 8.36 (change train in Divača), 06:33 – 08:50, ICS 07:40 – 09:45 (only Saturdays and Sundays), IC 09:30 – 11:50, 15:40 – 18:10, IC 18:10 – 20:32 The ticket from Ljubljana to Koper/Capodistria costs about 7 EUR, IC-Inter City costs about 9 EUR, ICS - Inter City Slovenija costs about 9 EUR. For the exact timetable, please check the following website: http://www.slo-zeleznice.si/en/ HOW TO GET TO PIRAN/PIRANO FROM KOPER/CAPODISTRIA (20 km): BY BUS: The buses leave every 20-30 minutes to Piran from Koper bus station (next to the Koper railway station) starting from 05:00 by 20:00. Last two buses leave at 21:30 and 22:20. On Saturdays and Sundays there is at least one bus every hour. The ticket from Koper to Piran costs about 3 EUR. HOW TO GET TO KOPER/CAPODISTRIA FROM TRIESTE/TRST (20 km): BY BUS: The buses next to Trieste railway station leave for Koper/Capodistria at: 06.00, 07.15, 09.00, 11.00, 11.30 (not operating on Mondays!), 12.30, 13.00 (not operating on Mondays!), 15.30, 17.00, 17.20, 19.00. The journey takes about an hour. The ticket from Trieste to Koper costs 3 EUR. Then take the bus to Piran. - - - This bus line is not operating on Sundays! - - -

HOW TO GET TO TRIESTE/TRST FROM TRIESTE AIRPORT (RONCHI) (20 km): Take the bus from the airport to Trieste railway station. Then take the bus to Koper/ Capodistria. HOW TO GET TO LJUBLJANA FROM LJUBLJANA AIRPORT (Letališče Jožeta Pučnika ) (20 km): BY BUS: Take the bus from the airport to Ljubljana which goes every full hour between 06:00 – 20:00. Go off at the Ljubljana Central bus station (next to the Ljubljana railway station). The ticket from the airport Letališče Jožeta Pučnika to Ljubljana costs about 3 EUR.

Youth Hostels ...in Ljubljana • Youth hostel - Dijaški dom Tabor, Vidovdanska 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana Booking: Tel: +386 (0)1 23-48-840, +386 (0)1 23-48-856, Fax: +386 (0)1 23-48-855 E-mail: ddtabor-lj@guest.arnes.si, website: http://www2.arnes.si/~ssljddta4/ Price: from 11 EUR (for IYHF members) Walking distance from the centre: 7 minutes • Youth Hostel – Celica, Metelkova 8, SI-1000 Ljubljana Booking: Tel: +386 (0)1 230-97-00, Fax: +386 (0)1 230-97-12 E-Mail: info@souhostel.com , website: www.souhostel.com Price: from 18 EUR (for IYHF members) Walking distance from the centre:: 10 minutes • Youth Hostel – Dijaški dom Šiška, Aljazeva 32, SI-1000 Ljubljana Booking: Tel: +386 (0)1 500-78-02 / 04 / 05, Fax: +386 (0)1 500-78-20 E-mail: info@ddsiska.com website: http://www.siska.si/ Price: from 15 EUR (for IYHF members) Walking distance from the centre: 25 minutes • Youth Hostel – Ljubljana, Litijska 57, SI-1000 Ljubljana Booking: Tel: +386 (0)1 548-00-55, Fax: +386 (0)1 548-00-56 E-mail: info@yh-ljubljana.com, website: http://www.bit-center.net/working_inn_ pon_eng.html Price: from 15 EUR (for IYHF members) Walking distance from the centre: 40 minutes

...in Koper and Piran • Val Hostel, Gregorčičeva 38a, SI-6330 Piran Booking: Tel: +386 (0)5 673-25-55, Fax: +386 (0)5 673-25-56 E-Mail: yhostel.val@siol.net, www: http://www.hostel-val.com/ Price: from 25 EUR (for IYHF members) • Dijaški in študentski dom Koper, Cankarjeva 5, SI-6000 Koper Booking: Tel: +386 (0)5 66 26 250, Fax: +386 (0)5 66 26 251 E-mail: ddkoper-recepcija@guest.arnes.si, www: http://www.ddkoper.si/ Price: from 12 EUR (for IYHF members) Walking distance from the centre: 10 minutes Prices are informative. Please check it by yourself once again. We recommend you to book your room at least one week in advance.

SOME EXAMPLES OF PRICES IN SLOVENIA: Cloak room (on Ljubljana railway station) - per day = 2 EUR Accommodation (for the youth hostel in Ljubljana) - per day = from 11 EUR In cafés and restaurants: Coffee = from 1 EUR Beer (0,5 L) = 2 EUR Juice (0,2 L) = 1 EUR (in cafés and restaurants) Sandwich = from 1,50 EUR (in cafés and restaurants) Cigarettes (Marlboro lights) = around 2,20 EUR Telephone card (50 impulses) = 5 EUR

MINI ENGLISH-SLOVENE DICTIONARY Good afternoon - Dober dan Good morning - Dobro jutro Good evening - Dober večer Hi / hello - Živijo Good bye - Nasvidenje Please - Prosim Thank you - Hvala Thank you very much - Hvala lepa Excuse me - Oprostite Why? - Zakaj? When? - Kdaj? How much? - Koliko? Where is - Kje je?

Directly - Naravnost Left - Levo Right - Desno Can you help me? - Ali mi lahko pomagate? Do you speak English? - Ali govorite angleško? Thursday - Četrtek Friday - Petek Post office - Pošta Police - Policija Doctor - Zdravnik Pharmacy - Lekarna (or) Apoteka

If you are interested in more detailed information about Slovenia, we suggest you browse the following pages on the internet: http://www.slovenia.info Slovenian Tourist Board http://www.zavod-voluntariat.si Homepage of Slovenian branch of SCI – VOLUNTARIAT http://dragonja.mbss.org/ Nature Paradise of Slovenian Istra http://www2.arnes.si/~kppomm/ Homepage of Maritime museum “Sergej Mašera” Piran - the organizer of the “SOLINE - SALTPANS” workcamp. http://www.matkurja.com Slovenian browser - A Guide to Virtual Slovenia http://www.gov.si The Official Web pages of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia. http://www.ff.uni-lj.si/publikacije/sft/ Slovenian for Travelers http://www.ukom.gov.si/eng/ Government of the Republic of Slovenia - Public Relations and Media Office http://www.adria.si Slovenian national airline company Adria Airways http://www.lju-airport.si Airport of Ljubljana 68

http://www.maribor-airport.si/ Airport of Maribor http://www.portoroz-airport.si Portorož airport http://www.aeroporto.fvg.it Airport of Trieste http://www.ukom.gov.si/eng/slovenia/publications/sinfo/ Promotional magazine on Slovenia available in pdf http://www.ryanair.com http://www.easyjet.com Very cheap flights from London to Venice or Triest and from Bruxelles to Venice (return tickets for cca. 30 EUR). http://www.postojnska-jama.si/ Information about Postojna Cave and “Human fish” - proteus - miracle of the Karst underground http://www.titoville.com Homepage of former Yugoslavian president – TITO http://www.hitchhikers.org Do you need a ride for free or low cost across Europe? http://www.couchsurfing.com/ Worldwide network for making connections between travelers and the local communities they visit. http://www.hospitalityclub.org/ Similar to couchsurfing, only that it has more Slovenian members.

WORKCAMP EVALUATION FORM Name:_ ____________________________Workcamp Ref.:____________________ Workcamp Name:_ ___________________Dates of workcamp:_________________ Sending organisation and country:________________________________________ BEFORE THE PROJECT 1. Did you receive any preparation in your own country?

☐ Yes If yes, was it:

☐ No

☐ Very useful Please give details:

☐ Useful

☐ Not so useful

How useful was the Information Sheet? Travel directions? Information about the work/project? Information about what to bring’? Information about the study element? Have you suggestions for improving the Information Sheet?

What did you know about SCI before you took part in the project?

What did you hope to gain from taking part in this project?

How did you hear about this workcamp?

THE PROJECT 6.

Please put a mark in the circle below to describe your thoughts about the work project.

Food

Social life

Accomodation

Benefit of work

VERY GOOD

Contact w/ people

Study element

GOOD OK POOR

Group dynamics Organisation of work

Decision making within group Aim of the project

What do you think this project achieved for: a) The organisation that you worked for: b) The local community:

8. What could be improved at this workcamp and how? Work: Study: Contact with local people: Social life: Living Conditions: Other: 71

GROUP DYNAMICS 9.

How did your group get on? Please explain.

10. How were decisions made within the group?

☐ By one or two people ☐ Through group discussion ☐ Other

11. Did any conflict occur in the group during the project? If so, how was it resolved? 12. Were there any language problems? Please explain how these were over come. 13. Were there any cultural differences that were difficult to cope with? 14. Was this your first workcamp? 15. Was there a camp leader? What was his/her role like? REFLECTION ON THE PROJECT 16. Say what you gained personally from taking part in this project. 17. SCI workcamps are meant to be a contribution to peace. Was this reflected in this project? How? 18. What did you learn about SCI? 19. Should SCI continue with this project? Thank you for completing this questionnaire! If you have any other comments please feel free to use this space:

CAMP LEADER EVALUATION FORM Name:_ _____________________________Workcamp Ref.:___________________ Workcamp Name:_ ___________________________________________________ Dates of workcamp:___________________________________________________ Number of participants (including ratio m/f): Number of camp leaders: BEFORE THE PROJECT 1.

How did you hear about this project?

What did you hope to gain from taking part in this project as a coordinator?

Did you take part in camp leader training?

☐ Yes If yes, was it:

☐ No

☐ Very useful

☐ Useful

☐ Not so useful

Having completed the project, do you feel that there was something missing from the training or that needed to be improved?

What were the essential parts of the training?

What kind of preparations did you make prior to the project?

THE PROJECT 7. Please put a mark in the circle below to describe your thoughts about the project. Food

Social life

Accomodation

Benefit of work

Contact w/ people

Study element

VERY GOOD GOOD OK POOR

Group dynamics Organisation of work

Decision making within group Aim of the project

What do you think this project achieved for: a) The organisation that you worked for: b) The local community:

How were the relations with the project partner?

10. Was the task division between you and the project partner clear? 11. What could be improved at this workcamp and how? Work: Study: Contact with local people: Social life: Living conditions: Other: SCI AND MAKING LINKS TO ‘PEACE’ 12. What do you think are the different motivations for participating in the project? 13. Do you feel that the participants were interested - or at least willing - to explore issues relating to peace? (if no, why not? if yes, how? i.e. formally/informally, within the group/with input from outside) 14. Was there any presentation and/or discussion about SCI at the project? 15. Do you think that participants were conscious of how this particular project fitted in with SCI peace ideology? Were there any formal or informal discussions about this? 16. Did you perceive a clear link between yourself, this project and the SCI peace ideology? GROUP DYNAMICS 17. How did your group get on? Please explain. 18. How were decisions made within the group?

☐ By one or two people ☐ Through group discussion ☐ Other

19. Did any conflicts occur in the group during the project? If so, how were they resolved? 20. Were there any language problems? Please explain how these were overcome. 21. Were there any cultural differences that were difficult to cope with? REFLECTION ON THE PROJECT 22. How would you describe your role in the project? 23. Say what you gained personally from taking part in this project. 24. Should SCI continue with this project?

Thank you for all your hard work and for completing this questionnaire! If you have any other comments please feel free to use this space:

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