Workcamp in Deutschland

"Vielfalt leben - Zuhause gestalten"
or „Don’t forget to talk to your stones!“

Sonsbeck 2009

von Verena aus Deutschland

Here are my impressions about my work camp experience 2009 in Germany. From the beginning I was aware of how it would take place and whether it is worth trying. My holidays were only these two weeks during the summer and I thought about it for a long time. Finally, I decided to take part. And now I know: It was more than worth! I had a really really great time! Without this experience my life would be really poor!

Our camp was in Sonsbeck in North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany, near the Lower Rhine and the Dutch border. We lived in the gym at the former convent, which is now a home for people with various disabilities.  Our group (we were 13 great guys from Italy, England, Spain, Japan, South Korea, Poland and Germany) built an artistic fire pit in a section of the park on the grounds. Sometimes it was hard work  (some days from 8 a. m. to 5 p. m., but other days only 4 hours), but working on a project as a group, when the results are obvious and you can be proud of having done something useful, all the effort is worth it! It was amazing, that we could use the pool in our free time! Every evening after work we relaxed there!

Our weekend-activities were great: We went to Essen, Cologne (I love the chocolate-fountain!), Xanten and finally, an unforgettable trip to Amsterdam!!! At some of our trips we were joined by the inhabitants of the housing area. Another experience I won’t miss. Get in touch and talk with them, learning how there daily routine is.

So my conclusion is: It was an incredible experience, intercultural and international atmosphere during two weeks. We all learned from each other and many things about other countries, we learned that the group interests are important, not our own. I found new friends, and I thank them all for this amazing time!!!  (I gotta feeling…)

So, don’t doubt: close friends, incredible impressions, fabulous experience, these are my results. You really should join a camp, you won’t regret!