Ecovillage of Granara: Get in the game! Cohabitation of differences to overcome disability
Description: The project promotes inclusive, sustainable communities where diversity is valued. Participants include international volunteers, Italian youths with disabilities, and staff from the host organization, including expert educators fostering autonomy and cooperation. The camp takes place in Granara, an ecological village in the Apennines (Parma, Emilia-Romagna), promoting sustainable living since 1993. Granara hosts social, cultural, and ecological initiatives (www.granara.org/en). The organizer is Alekoslab APS, based in Granara, active in ecology, social inclusion, appropriate technology, and nonviolence (www.alekoslab.org).
Type of Work: The workcamp includes morning tasks like green maintenance, carpentry, clay and sewing activities, cooking, and supporting people with disabilities. Afternoons are for continuing work or engaging in games, art, debates, and discussions on ecology, sustainability, and disability. Participants take turns preparing dinner. Workgroups run 6 hours daily. Activities support teamwork, inclusion, and care for shared spaces, while building self-esteem, belonging, and communication skills for all, especially youths with disabilities.
Study Theme: The study part covers ecology, group dynamics, disability, and inclusion. Participants will enhance communication, teamwork, and learn about appropriate technologies (solar energy, clay building, water systems). Group games in the morning and evening help build connections. Afternoon activities offer time to reflect on key topics. During work, staff provide info about the village and its technologies. Regular evaluation moments are planned.
Accommodation: Accommodation is in Granaio house, in shared rooms (2–4 beds and one with 9). Facilities are indoors, with extra solar showers outside. Participants cook, clean, and eat together. Food (mainly vegetarian) is provided, except wine/beer. The village is remote; shopping is weekly. Bring towel and sleeping bag if possible. Free Wi-Fi available.
Requirements: Openness to get involved and participate to a inclusive and sustainable community life.
Approximate Location: Grarana Ecological Village, Parma province, Emilia Romagna region. Granara is 600 mt high on Appennino Tosco-Emiliano mountains. From 1993 Granara is an experiment of sustainability and open community where different social and cultural activities are organised.
Notes: Additional incoming fee of 50€ for all volunteers applying through Partner organisations or Contacts of the SCI network. Check the status here: https://bit.ly/3vhBD5J.
Advantage to be selected if it is your first time doing a workcamp!
Free time includes games, hammock, biolake swims, forest walks, and evening activities. Saturday afternoon & Sunday morning are free. Granara is remote (shopping weekly), mostly vegetarian meals; gluten-free not guaranteed. Weather: hot days, cool nights, possible rain. Bring: sun hat, sunscreen, swimsuit, rain jacket, warm clothes, work gear, gloves, sturdy shoes, slippers, earplugs, towel/sleeping bag, personal items. www.alekoslab.org | www.granara.org
Camp Photographs
