Project: Deep down in the valley, from the forest to the sky, the Rochard gîte is the last corner of the world. In this natural landscape, 70 km from the Atlantic Ocean, between Nantes and Bordeaux, an old farm has been transformed into a rustic gîte by an association which, under a yurt, welcomes groups of children, hikers and campers. The Rochard gîte, an international center, has welcomed over 70 different nationalities. This place, in the middle of nature, invites respect for environment and to a sustainable development approach. This year, we will celebrate 15 years of workcamps in this place where many international relationships have been wovened. Come and celebrate with us this great moment of volunteering. Your actions will be in accordance with the objective 16 of sustainable development (UN) in favor of peace, justice and efficient institutions.
Work: The objective is to continue the restoration of the «gîte», using stonework, carpentry, (small equipment) and landscape modifications. You will acquire skills in masonry, paint and woodworking. These activities will be carried out under the guidance of the association’s experienced volunteer technical supervisors. You will work around 4 hours per day, the highlight of this workcamp being the meeting with the inhabitants.
Accommodation and food: You will sleep in a two-persons tent between the trees, and a kitchen and a dining room will be at your disposal. Food is supplied and cooked, alternately, in teams. Bikes will be available to go on the worksite and to have a ride on the island. You will have a vehicle available for all mobility in the region. Food will be provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner (you have a food budget which the facilitators will manage and communicate with you throughout the work). The meals will be prepared, in turn, by you, especially for lunch and dinner while respecting environmental values and local resources, as well as the culture of each and everyone (hot and cold dishes as well as vegetarian and vegan will be prepared).
Location: Béceleuf, Deux-Sèvres, 20 km north of Niort.
Leisure activities: Trips in the region and activities with locals will be arranged for meeting and intercultural discussions. You will have the opportunity to visit the «Marais Poitevin», go to art expos, concerts, festivals, museum and also to visit cities such as La Rochelle, Niort and Poitiers.
Time and directions to the meeting point: At Niort train station, between 4pm and 6 pm. The facilitators will shuttle between the station and the place of accommodation.