This project is supported and co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme. It means that your travel costs, accommodation, and food will be fully covered if you get selected for the project. The European Commission’s support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission nor EACEA can be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
The European Voluntary Service is a Swiss program of European volunteering. The program is financed by the Swiss Confederation. The European Voluntary Service gives young people the opportunity to volunteer abroad, contributing with their efforts to a cause they believe in – be it solidarity with refugees and migrants, work on environmental issues, activities for children or the elderly, support for non-governmental organizations, work for cultural events or several other topics.
Volunteers will play a vital role in the diverse daily operations, gaining valuable experience and honing their skills while contributing to the community’s sustainable living practices. Tasks span various areas, including the guesthouse, where volunteers engage in activities such as guest check-in, room preparation, laundry, cleaning, and reception duties. The event venue becomes a vibrant hub with volunteers involved in event preparations and execution. Hands-on experiences extend to gardening, encompassing the cultivation of vegetables and flowers, as well as landscape gardening. Creativity is encouraged through involvement in decoration work and assistance with renovations. Outdoor maintenance tasks vary with the seasons, offering a dynamic and engaging volunteer experience. Volunteers will also get a taste of culinary arts by participating in cooking and baking activities.
In addition to the practical skills acquired, volunteers will gain diverse learning outcomes. They will actively participate in the workings of a non-profit organization, enhancing their organizational and operational skills. Language proficiency in English and German will be improved through daily interactions. Interaction with international guests and fellow volunteers will foster intercultural skills, creating a global learning environment. Furthermore, volunteers will be empowered to bring forth their ideas, fostering creativity and providing opportunities to develop and implement personal projects within the eco-village community.
The Synergy Village association runs a large property in Feldbach at the Lake of Zurich. The former farm has been transformed into a meeting place for local and international visitors. In the beautiful surroundings, visitors can explore the magical grotto with a waterfall, idyllic gardens with secluded lounges, and the lookout at the top of the property. Synergy Village runs a café, a guesthouse, and an event venue and organizes its cultural public events. The property of Synergy Village also includes the “KREIS-Haus” – an almost self-sufficient tiny house that is operated as a field lab in collaboration with the Zurich University of Applied Sciences.
For the operation and maintenance of the property, Synergy Village works with international volunteers and local association members. Synergy Village aims to be a “Place of Inspiration” where people can be creative, try new things, and learn from each other. By doing so, Synergy Village follows the principles of a future-oriented and sustainable way of working and living.
Participants will be accommodated in shared rooms between 2 to 3 volunteers. Embracing the eco-friendly lifestyle, the provided meals are exclusively vegetarian and/or vegan, promoting a sustainable and health-conscious diet. Volunteers participating in the program will benefit from the support that covers their board and lodging needs. Moreover, volunteers receive a daily pocket money allowance of 8 CHF, providing them with some financial flexibility during their engagement. Furthermore, participants will have access to ESC (European Voluntary Service) training, enhancing their skills and knowledge in areas related to sustainable living, community development, and other valuable aspects of the project.
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