ESC in IRIDA
At Tvořivá dílna IRIDA, the European Solidarity Corps is a platform for solidarity, inclusion, and sustainable local impact. We create meaningful volunteering opportunities for young people, especially those with fewer opportunities, to grow through service, intercultural exchange, and non-formal learning while actively contributing to rural communities in Czechia.
ESC at IRIDA connects personal development with community transformation. Through cooperation with eco-farms, alternative schools, and local initiatives, we address real challenges such as social inclusion, environmental responsibility, and sustainable rural development. By revitalizing existing spaces and promoting community gardening, outdoor learning, and eco-conscious practices, we foster long-term solidarity, resilience, and active participation locally and across Europe.
Volunteers in Tvořivá dílna IRIDA
Individual volunteering
The IRIDA-based activity is rooted in our mission to empower young people through non-formal education, solidarity, and holistic well-being. As a rural youth organization in Czechia, we create inclusive spaces for learning, creativity, and community connection.
ESC volunteers co-organize local workshops and events focused on sustainability, intercultural exchange, mindfulness, and youth participation. A key moment is the cultural fair with an ESC and Erasmus+ info corner, where volunteers share their experiences and inspire local youth to engage in European opportunities.
Volunteers may also support IRIDA’s internal work: outreach, promotion of EU programmes, communication, and awareness campaigns, contributing ideas and creativity without carrying full responsibility.
The European added value lies in bringing diversity, fresh perspectives, and solidarity into a small-town context. Volunteers experience meaningful grassroots engagement while strengthening youth inclusion, mental health awareness, green transition, and digital empowerment at local and European levels.
Solidarity in Alternative Schools, Classrooms Without Borders
Team volunteering
This activity takes place in several alternative schools across the Czech Republic, including democratic, Waldorf, forest, and unschooling-inspired models. One example is Arktur, a democratic school near Brno. These independent schools share values such as intrinsic motivation, inclusion, non-violent communication, and active participation of children in their learning journey.
ESC volunteers become part of the school community, supporting mixed-age classes, outdoor and creative activities, and co-organizing workshops based on their interests, such as language cafés, intercultural events, storytelling, or wellbeing sessions. They contribute through presence and shared learning, never replacing staff.
The European added value lies in meaningful intercultural exchange. Children gain regular contact with diverse cultures and perspectives, while volunteers experience child-centered and democratic education in practice. The activity strengthens inclusive, holistic learning environments and promotes solidarity, participation, and active citizenship in everyday school life.
Green Hands: Eco-Volunteering for Sustainability
Team volunteering
The Team Volunteering in Eco Farms activity takes place in rural Czechia, hosted by farms dedicated to organic, regenerative, and community-based practices. Volunteers may join farms like Karlov (hemp production and natural building) or others focused on permaculture, herbalism, natural food production, and eco-education. These farms function as living laboratories of sustainability and solidarity.
Volunteers support daily farm work: planting, harvesting, composting, maintenance, while also co-organizing workshops, community events, and educational activities. Through shared work and reflection, they gain hands-on experience in sustainable living and non-formal learning.
This activity strengthens intercultural cooperation and rural revitalization. International volunteers bring new energy and perspectives to local communities, while developing practical skills, environmental awareness, and a deeper sense of European solidarity.