After you have chosen a workcamp abroad in the SCI database, you need to fill out the application form in English: Pay attention, especially, to the motivation. Some workcamps require an extra motivation letter. You can fill in from one to six workcamp preferences; don’t forget the workcamp codes, names, and dates. If you are not placed in the first camp (because it is full), you will be placed in another camp chosen within your preferences.

Other important details include:

Age:

There is no upper age limit. Minimum age limits can be applied, i.e., 18 years old.

Transportation, accommodation, and food:

You pay for and arrange your own transport to the camp. If you can bring a vehicle, it may be a major benefit to the work camp. The camp sponsor will provide for accommodation and food. 

Acceptance:

Once you are accepted, you will receive a confirmation, and within 2 weeks from the beginning of the workcamp, you will receive an information sheet with all the information concerning the camp. You’ll have to confirm your participation in PVN. You’ll have to confirm your participation and send a “confirmation slip” to PVN. We strongly recommend buying your travel tickets only after being accepted! 

Documents:

You need to arrange for yourself the legal documents to enter a foreign country (visa, fees, etc.). PVN can provide you with an invitation letter for the work camp.

Fees and cancellations:

The fee to participate in workcamps abroad is 25 euros as administrative costs for PVN. Some projects can have extra fees to pay upon arrival; extra are always stated in the workcamp description. If a volunteer decides not to participate in a workcamp after having been accepted, they have to communicate this as soon as possible. 

Deadlines:

There are no deadlines for applying, but it is recommended to send applications as soon as possible as places are filled very quickly. Generally, you will receive an answer 10 days after your application has been sent.

Specific qualification:

Some camps require special qualifications, such as language skills, educational skills, etc. If special qualifications are needed, they will be mentioned in the camp description. English is often the working language in the camp, and you are expected to communicate in this language.

Bringing children:

Most camps do not allow volunteers to bring children under 12, although a few encourage it. The camp listing will usually mention if children are encouraged or discouraged. If you have questions, contact PVN.

Disabled volunteers: 

Many workcamps are held in places that are not equipped to handle the severely disabled (e.g., wheelchairs, etc.). Eligibility may be determined on an individual basis. Please contact PVN.

Become a camp leader

Do you have previous volunteer experience and want to share it? Would you like to show international volunteers a different side of Albania? Do you want to experience how a group can work without a big boss telling everybody what to do? Then become a camp leader!

As a workcamp camp leader, you can form strong bonds with your volunteers and project partner. Your task will be to coordinate the activities planned during the work camp (work, outdoor activities, excursions, shopping, etc.) and play a pivotal role between the international and Albanian volunteers, the project partner, and PVN. International trainings are sometimes organized to train the future camp leaders.