Work Camps
1) Intro
International work camps are a short-term form of international volunteer camps that emerged since 1920, they are fun and aimed at building friendships and promoting cultural exchange among nations. They are an affordable and meaningful way that young people can travel, live and work in a foreign country.
Intercultural immersion, communicating and adapting is what the programs are all about. They are a way our participants can respond positively to the many challenges facing our planet by getting to know people and working with them to improve their lives in some tangible way. For many, they are a good way to “test the waters” of international service with a great variety of programs worldwide.
Educational and Fun ~ Because volunteers at each site usually come from several countries, our participants have great fun, building bonds with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. They will learn a lot about one another, themselves and about some of the social, cultural and political conditions that exist in other countries. Discussions on issues of common concern, free-time activities and local excursions are an integral part of every workcamp.
Short-Term Placements ~ Work camps are usually 2-3 weeks in duration, so the flexibility of experiencing a short stay in a foreign country is possible.
Community Programs ~ We offer projects for teens, adults, seniors and families. There are a wide variety of volunteer service projects available that arise from a grassroots level. From sustainable agriculture to environmental protection, helping the elderly and orphans, to conservation projects and preserving archaeological sites.
Affordable ~ The price for a 2 to 3 week workcamp is as low as 11,000 Baht. It includes accommodation and food at the camp. This includes food, accommodation and work materials. Volunteers arrange and pay for their own transportation. In developing countries, in Asia, there are additional fees payable upon arrival that vary depending on the hosting organization.
Projects are available all over the world throughout the year. However most of the workcamps are conducted from May to September. We can arrange placements in most European and Asian countries.
Experience life abroad for various sections of society while exploring and discovering for yourself where you can go, what you can do while impacting society in a positive manner. Deepen and broaden your worldly knowledge in various spheres and disciplines while taking part in positive social action.
Learn new ways of life by helping others, living and working side by side with locals and other volunteers.
2) Countries/ Duration/ Prices
North America
US
Europe
France
Germany
UK
Italy
Korea
Asia-Vietnam, Nepal , Indonesia,
We can offer placements in other countries as well upon request.
Duration
All work camps are 2-3 weeks in length and have specific starting dates. Once you apply, we will send you the list of the camps in the country you have chosen.
Prices
For US & European countries, the participation fee is 11,000 baht.
For Asian countries, the participation fee is 5,000 baht (+ local payment of 150-200 USD depending on the country.)
What’s Included
Preparation Seminar from Greenway Cultural Exchange
Invitation letters for the visa/ Visa assistance
Travel Assistance & Support
Project Placement of your choice
Food & Accommodation during the camp
Experience Certificate
What’s Not Included
Visa Costs
Travel Insurance
Flight Ticket-to/ fro (All transportation is arranged and paid for by the volunteer.)
Personal expenses
3) Facilities & Benefits
>See the world with a purpose
Some travelers are content just traveling around the world. But, volunteering not only gives you the opportunity to give back, it can make your trip feel purposeful, it gives you something to do, somewhere to go, and somewhere to stay. You’ll still have plenty of time for local sightseeing or visiting cultural sites.
>Change yourself
By volunteering abroad you will learn so much about yourself. You will do things that you never imagined you were capable of. The biggest difference you will notice at the end of the program will not be external but will be the difference inside of yourself. Travel to a foreign country is an experience by itself, and combined with a youth volunteer project, you will be changed forever because you will have a greater understanding of another culture, you will challenge your personal limits, and you will develop friendships.
> Flexibility
Unlike paid employment, volunteering provides a more flexible schedule and varying time commitments. You may choose to participate in a work camp in France for two weeks, volunteer with children in Nepal, we have various destinations and a number of projects.
> Build your resume
Many employers value volunteerism above all else. If you have volunteerism on your resume it shows that you are flexible, patient and committed. It also helps in your CV that you have been abroad on such a project.
> Career development
A volunteer position may give you the hands-on experience for future career development.
> Cultural immersion
Many travelers know where they want to go, but don’t know what to do once they get there. Volunteering abroad gives your travels a purpose and an itinerary. Ofcourse you will spend a lot of time with locals and build strong friendships.
> Affordable travel
Work Camps are the cheapest programs available to live/ stay in a foreign country with a full fledged program.
Is volunteering for you?
Being a volunteer is a way to make a difference. Volunteering is not for everyone, so before you sign up for one of our volunteering programs there are a few things you should consider such are you able to live in a foreign country with a group of young people? Are you able to travel alone? Are you open minded?
Volunteering requires flexibility, patience, and people who genuinely respect the host people and their culture. Volunteers go to share their energy and time with the people, to experience their culture first hand and to grow themselves.
4) FAQ’s
Q. In which countries can I join a work camp?
-We offer placements in work camps in several destinations, but our most popular destinations are the United States, France, Germany, UK, Italy, Korea, Vietnam, Nepal and Indonesia.
Q. When is the best time to join a work camp?
-80% of workcamps occur June through September.
Q. How much does it cost to join a work camp?
-The price for EVERY work camp we offer is as low as 11,000 baht. This includes meals and accommodation during the camp.
Q. What is the duration of a work camp?
-Work camps last two or three weeks. You can also register for more than one camp in the same or different countries.
Q.When should I arrive at and depart from the work camp?
-Volunteers should plan to arrive on the first day of the camp at the meeting point (stated in the info sheet) and depart on the last day of the camp anytime.
Q. Which ages are allowed?
-Our programs are open to anyone age 18 and up in most countries. Although workcampers average ages are 21-25, we welcome volunteers of all ages.
Q. What kind of work is done during a work camp?
-Construction & renovation and house building projects, conservation projects, environmental projects such as trail building, park maintenance, organic farming; social services working with children, education and arts projects; historic preservation and archaeology. Work projects can be of ANY type because they arise from the needs of the local host community. This is a very grass-root level program.
Q. What about accomodation?
-Your fee covers room and board. Accommodation varies depending on the camp, and will be basic but clean and comfortable. Accommodation will be in shared rooms/ sometimes tents (during summer). Living arrangements are generally cooperative, like a family, with volunteers coordinating and sharing the day-to-day activities such as food preparation, work projects and recreation.
Q. Are there any language requirements?
-No foreign language proficiency is required. English is generally the language of most workcamps. Basic understanding of English is needed.
Q. Do I need a visa?
Yes. Visa regulations are different in each country. Before buying your ticket, contact the relevant foreign embassy in Thailand and ask them what you need to do in order to get a visa. We will provide you with an invitation letter for the period of the work camp. For some countries or if this is your first time, you may also need to attend a personal interview at the embassy in Bangkok.
Q. Who covers my travel expenses and visa costs?
The participation fee only covers the placement and local board & lodge. All other expenses such as Ticket and visa costs should be borne by you.
Q. What do I need to bring to a work camp?
Sleeping bag, towel, clothing suitable for climate, toiletries, medicines, phrase book, recipes from home, music and anything local from your home for the country presentation and a cooperative spirit. We will provide you with a check list you can modify depending on your destination.
5) Apply
Work camp projects are available all over the world throughout the year. However most of the workcamps are conducted from June to September. Please read all the information and the terms/ conditions before you apply. Also make sure that you have a valid passport at least 6 months after the date of the camp.
Please download the application form here.
Please email your application along with a statement of purpose/ or motivation letter to info@thegreenlion.net.
If you need more information or assistance please don’t hesitate to contact us.
