Seeds of Beskydy

CODE: SDA 26-400

Work:

Volunteers will take part in hands-on conservation activities such as planting and caring for trees and shrubs, restoring and maintaining natural habitats, and observing local flora and fauna. The work also includes educational and community-oriented activities, such as workshops on ecology, sustainability, and conservation for children and young people aged 12–17. In addition, volunteers will support the organisation of a children’s camp, assisting the main organisers with daily activities and logistics. Volunteers are expected to actively contribute by designing and leading one activity that introduces participants to their country, culture, or subculture. In the afternoon, some educational blocks may also be open to the adult public. The work is mildly physically demanding and involves the use of basic hand tools; safety equipment is provided. In case of rain, volunteers will focus on indoor tasks such as tool maintenance, project planning, documentation, and preparation of educational materials.

Accomodation and food

Rooms are shared, including two-, three-, and four-bed options, and participants should bring their own sleeping bag and pillow. The facility includes a kitchenette, fridge, washing machine, and Wi-Fi, and offers four toilets and two showers to ensure a comfortable stay. Volunteers will have to help the local cook to prepare their breakfast and dinner. Lunch will be provided by the host organization and adjustment can be made by prior arrangement.

Location and leisure

The workcamp is based in Karviná, a historic border town on the Olše River in northern Moravia, close to Poland. The area combines cultural and historical heritage with easy access to natural sites used for environmental projects such as habitat restoration and tree planting. Essential facilities are available nearby, including an ATM, pharmacy, and reliable mobile phone reception. Transport to worksites will be provided by minibus.

In their free time, volunteers can explore Karviná and its surroundings, including Fryštát Castle and park, Darkov Spa Park, and Darkov Lake. Leisure options include cycling, walking, swimming at the local pool, and outdoor activities in nearby nature areas. On days off, excursions can be made to Havířov, Český Těšín, or Ostrava, as well as hiking trips in the Beskydy Mountains, including Lysá hora, Praděd, and nature trails along the Olše River.

Project hosted by

The workcamp is organised in cooperation with Petrklíč help, z. s., a community-based educational organisation founded in Český Těšín that focuses on youth empowerment, non-formal education, volunteering, and environmental sustainability. The main goal of the workcamp is to involve volunteers in practical nature conservation and landscape care while providing education on ecology, sustainability, and climate resilience. Through hands-on habitat restoration, landscape management, and biodiversity support, volunteers gain practical experience in environmental protection and sustainable practices. The project contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land and SDG 4: Quality Education through experiential learning and ecological stewardship.

Directions to meeting point

The journey will last approximately 6h and will need from 5 to 6 changes.
We will provide more details in the specific infosheet.

Additional comments

Study part: The programme includes a guided excursion to Cieszyn in Poland, where volunteers will explore the city’s history, cultural traditions, and key landmarks. The visit also introduces examples of cross-border cooperation between Czech and Polish communities, helping participants better understand the regional, cultural, and social context of their conservation work.