The project
The REgenerate project is an initiative of Youth for Smile and is based on the experience of the Outdoor Education Center, which was established in 2010. The project aims to develop a sustainable farm and training center that serves as a powerful living laboratory for ecological sustainability, regenerative practices, and community-based learning. This project requires international volunteers to participate in a holistic lifestyle experience, where daily work is directly connected to ecological responsibility and sustainable living. In addition to practical work, the project also includes informal sessions focused on environmental awareness, sustainability, and civic engagement. Volunteers reflect on their experiences and developmental competencies that they can apply in their own communities. REgenerate is not just about physical work, but also about reconnecting with nature, understanding sustainable systems, and learning by doing. By adapting to normal conditions and working together, volunteers contribute meaningfully to regeneration and develop additional practical, social, and ecological competencies.
Volunteer work
The tasks offered may vary depending on weather conditions and seasonal priorities. Volunteers contribute to the establishment and maintenance of a permaculture garden, applying the principles of regenerative agriculture, soil care, and composting. Participants can assist with the care of farm animals, establishing and repairing pasture plots, cleaning areas, and preparing food supplies for the winter season. The project supports the restoration of natural meadows by removing scrub and preserving biodiversity. Volunteers can also help clean up and restore small rivers or water systems affected by overgrowth. Activities may include establishing and maintaining a nature trail in the forest, improving accessibility, and creating educational elements for visitors.
Accommodation
Living conditions during the project will be very simple and nature-oriented. Accommodation consists of tents provided by the organizers, including mattresses. Volunteers must bring their own sleeping bags. The tents are shared by two participants. Sanitary facilities are simple and ecological: a solar-powered outdoor shower is available. A composting toilet is used. Washing facilities are basic. Because the farm uses a biological wastewater system, all volunteers are expected to use environmentally friendly personal hygiene products. Meals are prepared by the volunteers themselves in the outdoor kitchen, including cooking over an open fire when appropriate.
Leisure
The project takes place in the village of Bārbele, in the municipality of Bauska, in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by forests, meadows, and wetlands. The farm is located approximately 6 km from the village center and offers a peaceful and nature-oriented living experience. The nearest bus stop is 3 km away. The capital, Riga, is 60 km away. The location offers ample opportunities to explore Latvian nature. Volunteers will have the chance to: take forest walks and discover local biodiversity; explore nearby wetlands and learn more about peat ecosystems; observe wildlife and experience authentic rural landscapes; and enjoy the silence, the dark skies, and the connection with nature. On-site, there are opportunities for sports and active recreation, such as volleyball, basketball, and football. Excursions in small groups can be organized to Bauska or Riga, where participants can explore cultural and historical sights, museums, cafes, and city life.
Travel
The international arrival terminals are Riga International Airport or Riga International Bus Station. The final stop is the Gaisma bus stop. You will be picked up there by the project partner.
You arrange the travel to your project yourself. IBO asks all volunteers to travel in the most sustainable way possible, so preferably by train or bus. What you at least can do, is compensate your CO2 emissions. You can find more information about this on the website of Milieu Centraal. You can also compensate your emissions via 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.
Cost
IBO asks €50 registration fee. In addition, you pay a participation fee of €189 for this project. You can also become an IBO-supporter, then you do not pay a registration fee.
Would you like to know more about how your contribution is made and how it is spent? Read about the costs for participation.
Register
Register as a volunteer at IBO here.