Workcamp Details

Description: In the middle of the vibrant and multicultural Berlin-Friedrichshain, a Buddhist center was founded in 2001. Its’ home is a listed ensemble that has been continuously expanded ever since. The supporting association is the Center for Peace and Understanding Bodhicharya Germany. Bodhicharya means "awakened activity" and is an encouragement and guideline to practice actions that are rooted in compassion and wisdom. The aims of the association are the study and practice of the Buddhist teachings for the cultivation of spiritual peace as well as the cultivation of interreligious dialogues. Today the center is a friendly place of rest, meditation and encounter with a varied program of courses, lectures and social projects. It is used by many and supported only by volunteers and donations.

Type of Work: Reconstruction of a small house with a half-timbered facade in accordance with monument protection in one of the backyards. For this, the existing old bricks of the half-timbered facade have to be washed, new connections to the electricity and water supply have to be made and trenches have to be dug for this. There will also be other additional tasks.

Study Theme: The center is a spiritual home for many Buddhists in Berlin, Germany and worldwide. It is also a local institution where everyone is welcome and has the opportunity to express themselves without prejudice and to find peace. People of all religions, backgrounds and attitudes are welcome. It is far from Buddhism to do active persuasion work on its own behalf. You can take part in the ongoing program with various courses and meditations and talks for the work camp are also offered. Participation is voluntary.

Accommodation: The work camp will be housed in a large room in the shell for women and a large room in the shell for men. The sanitary conditions are separate bathrooms for men and women. In addition, there are several toilets on the premises. There is also a large communal kitchen where camp members can prepare their meals. Vegan and vegetarian food is possible. You sleep on your own sleeping mat with a sleeping bag.

Language: Camp language is English. In addition, all courses and events for the workcamp will be held in English or will be translated simultaneously. The regular courses offered by the association are generally in German and can be attended with little knowledge of German. However, it is still possible to ask questions there in English.

Requirements: Willingness to do six hours of hard physical labor, five days a week. A respectful cooperation is expected, in which all participants of the work camp and visitors of the center feel comfortable.

Approximate Location: Berlin-Friedrichshain is located in the middle of Berlin and has developed from a former poor eastern district into a young, trendy area with many clubs, pubs and interesting shops. Berlin offers many tourist opportunities with countless museums, exhibitions, sports facilities, flea markets, parks, but also very beautiful nature on the outskirts. According to the house rules, smoking and alcohol are prohibited on the premises. A respectful coexistence and tranquility is expected on the premises.

Notes: INCOMING FEE for volunteers applying via partner organisations and contacts of SCI: https://sci-d.de/incomingfee

Camp Photographs