From July 4th to August 31st, 2024, Go Alive had the incredible opportunity to participate in a long-term volunteering experience hosted in Starogard Gdanski, Poland. Titled “Shape Your Future with Sports – Summer Camp,” this project was part of the European Solidarity Corps and focused on engaging youth in active citizenship through sport-based volunteering, intercultural exchange, and inclusive community engagement.
Throughout the two months, volunteers collaborated with local partners to create an inclusive and dynamic environment for children, youth, and elderly residents. From organizing sports tournaments to leading creative workshops, the experience was filled with meaningful moments, laughter, and shared learning.
The Experience
The project was a vibrant mix of physical activity, teamwork, and creative expression. Volunteers were immersed in daily responsibilities ranging from supporting inclusive sports activities and hosting cultural presentations to designing visual content and managing social media for local events.
Whether on the basketball court, at the senior center, or in creative workshops, the volunteers played a central role in promoting dialogue, solidarity, and inclusion through non-formal education.
The experience not only empowered the participants with valuable skills but also brought smiles and joy to the people of Starogard Gdanski.
Testimonial from the Participant
Dionisia:
“Στο Beniaminek sport club, είμαι υπεύθυνη για τα social media, δημιουργώ posters για το Denya cup, φτιάχνω TikToks για την προώθηση του εθελοντισμού και κάνω παρουσιάσεις για την Ελλάδα. Απολαμβάνω πολύ αυτό που κάνω και είναι ικανοποιητικό να συνεισφέρω με τόσους διαφορετικούς τρόπους.”
What Made it Special?
What made this summer camp truly special was the powerful blend of sports and community. The energy on the field, the creativity in the workshops, and the bonds formed across cultures all contributed to an unforgettable experience. The volunteers became an integral part of the local community and carried home memories, friendships, and a deeper understanding of social inclusion.
Stay tuned with Go Alive for more inspiring volunteer adventures! Whether it’s on the field, in a classroom, or during intercultural dinners, every step is a chance to grow, connect, and make a difference.