The project
The cultural NGO initiative "Rooming Inn" was launched in 2023 to actively shape public space for a gender-equal, sustainable, and bright future. Their new project—the repurposing of a vacant 1950s kindergarten—aims to create a living laboratory that explores and demonstrates what a "good life" entails. In the future, the wooden structure will be freely accessible to people of all generations. It will create a space where people can gather and exchange knowledge, demonstrating the importance of non-commercial spaces for a happy society. As a "living lab," it will allow people to experience what society needs. In collaboration with artists, other initiatives, and organizations, Rooming Inn offers a free cultural, recreational, and educational program. The goal is to create a safe and innovative space where encounters with other generations, new ideas, and inspiration can flourish.
The house and garden will be transformed into a beautiful, safe, and accessible space, ensuring that people with diverse needs feel welcome and comfortable here in the future. This feeling forms the foundation of the project. In line with the "Living Lab" concept, all volunteers are warmly invited to contribute ideas for the actual implementation of the project. Ideas for the building and garden are very welcome! The overarching goal is to create a space for the common good that is as high-quality and innovative as possible.
Volunteer work
The planned activities include general renovation work using natural materials, restoration work, woodworking, and the planning and design of accessible spaces (toilets, access, and relocating light switches and electrical outlets). The project is also interested in how you feel about volunteering and how you think it can contribute to a good life.
Accommodation
You'll sleep directly on the project; there are shared bedrooms with mattresses for everyone. You can also camp in the garden—feel free to bring your own tent! All meals are prepared communally. Cooking and grilling are available on-site. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Joint activities during the project create opportunities for exchange: with people from different backgrounds, to get to know each other, and to gain new inspiration.
Leisure
In your free time you can discover Vienna and surrounding places. In addition, there are numerous opportunities to take beautiful nature walks in surrounding areas.
Travel
You arrange your own trip to Vienna and will be picked up there by the project partner.
IBO asks all volunteers to travel in the most sustainable way possible, so preferably with public transport. Sometimes travelling by plane is inevitable. We kindly suggest to compensate your CO2 emissions. You can find more information about this on the website of Milieu Centraal. You can also compensate your emissions through IBO, by donating to our partner’s tree planting project in Uganda. You can read more about that here.
Preparation
IBO offers a good preparation for your volunteering work abroad.You will receive a digital information package and an invitation to a preparation meeting. Read more about the proces from departure until return.
Costs
For this project you pay €50,- registration fee and €189,- participation fee. If you become an IBO-supporter, you don't have to pay the registration fee.
This includes accommodation and meals, local transport, an information pack and (online) preparation meeting. Excluding travel, insurance and any outings.
Register
Go to register to enroll in this project.