Project: Based on community developmental work, this project intends to facilitate an exchange between the local community and international volunteers. In response to the UN goal of “Sustainable cities and communities”, the work camp will be focused on creating common intercultural space and exchange with the local community, exploring new ways of thinking, and acting, sharing experiences, living alternatively and taking part in collective life. There will be many occasions to promote solidarity. All international workcamp memories are unique, so come to Torpes and make your own!
Work: There was a time when the villagers of Torpes could easily get from the highest part of the village to lower part next to the train station. Today these parts are rather disconnected, so the village wants to improve their daily lives by constructing a wooden staircase, reuniting the two parts of the village. With the help of a technical supervisor, you will learn architectural techniques and carpentry. The work (around 6 hours a day) will be organised in teams, and you will also oversee all chores such as, cooking cleaning etc
Accommodation and food: You will live in the local gymnasium, which will be reserved for the team. The community will provide you with beds and you can prepare meals and wash clothes on site. Bring your own bedding, blankets or sleeping bags. Accompanied by the camp leaders, you will make the menu and prepare the meals, in turns. Feel free to initiate collective meals with the other residents. Vegetarian options are available. You will oftentimes share meals with the villagers giving you the opportunity to discover the local gastronomy and what makes it unique.
Location: The commune of Torpes is situated 17 km from the city of Besançon, in the department of Doubs. The worksite is five minutes on foot away from your accommodation.
Leisure activities: May it be during the afternoons or weekends; your group will initiate and organise the activities. The ideal programme will account for the wishes of everybody and financial side of things. It might include hikes along the banks of the river Doubs, using the local sports terrain, exploring caves, and visiting Besançon. You can also rely on the support of the villagers for organisation, as they will be delighted to engage with you and to give advice on how to best discover the local environment and enjoy your stay.
Closest train stations: We are located 30 minutes by car away from the two stations of Besançon (Besançon-Viotte and Besançon TGV)
Time and directions to the meeting point: A meeting point will be established to facilitate your arrival. The campleaders will drive you from the station to Torpes. This is planned towards the end of the day between 4 pm and 6 pm.