Summary
History of youth camps
The concept of youth camps flourished at the end of the Second World War, when reconstruction efforts were important in Europe. It was then dozens of young people from all social categories who met for a summer to renovate a buildingclean up a natural area or take part in the harvest.
This period was essential to create a group spirit between the participants and to smooth out the social differences which could exist between them. Through their action, these projects have contributed to recreating a spirit of union in territories in crisis.
Youth camps today
Today, if the motivations of the shipyards have changed a little, the spirit remains the same.
You can register to spend, from a few weeks to several months, a very good meeting timebut also of work in a warm atmosphere.
You can choose to devote yourself to:
- a renovation site ;
- an artistic creation site;
- a reflection project;
- a construction siteaid to populations ;
- a sports camp.
Where can I register for a youth camp?
Here are the sites of the associations offering projects for young people:
These are associations that have proven themselves in this area and can offer you dozens of workcamps, some of which take place all year round. Also don’t forget the scout associations who can offer very nice stays.
Be careful in your choice of association, because some of them are more aimed at extorting money from you or enlisting you in ideological groups than respecting the concept and spirit of youth camps.
Concretely, how does this happen ?
After you have identified the youth camp that suits you, you can to apply through the association’s website.
You should pay a certain amount of money which will cover the necessary expenses for your accommodation, food, etc. It may seem illogical to have to pay to work, but keep in mind that associations cannot earn money and only aim to reimburse the costs incurred during the construction site.
You will then be asked to specify your expectations and show your motivation in the matter. This selection process is vital to ensure a good atmosphere in the construction site.