Camphill Community Glencraig

Camphill Community Glencraig (Glencraig) is situated in Northern Ireland (NI) between Belfast and Bangor and is part of the international Camphill movement. Glencraig is located on a beautiful estate of 100 acres (45 hectares) with woods, fields and parklands sloping down to the shore of Belfast Lough. There are 19 houses, various school buildings, some communal buildings and workshops with the farm in the heart of the Community. Over the last 60 years Glencraig has promoted biodynamic/organic agriculture/horticulture and other environmentally sustainable practices. There is a high appreciation for the importance of biodiversity and there are many people engaged at Glencraig who have a wide range of expertise in developing projects in this area with volunteers. At Glencraig social and cultural activities, as well as drama and music, are used as a means to bring people together and celebrate significant moments during the course of the week, year and the lives of individuals. The interaction of diverse nationalities, creeds, abilities and gender enrich the way of life, whilst allowing each individual to follow his or her own conscience. From the very beginning volunteering has been a fundamental aspect of what is provided at Glencraig. Everyone involved at Glencraig has a high appreciation of the benefits of engaging volunteers, there is also an awareness of the challenges for young volunteers and the support they require. Glencraig can provide innovative opportunities for the volunteers to learn new skills through experiential learning. This will help the volunteers in their personal development and increase their opportunities for employment.