In 2012, one phone call from a friend led me across the country to a place called Camphill Communities California. It was the first time I heard about Camphill and I was intrigued by my friend Amy’s experience. Once I settled in, I realised that Camphill was unlike anything I had done before and I had a lot of growing to do. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love volunteering at Camphill.
Coming from a small island in The Bahamas, I didn’t learn about the importance of having a gap year until I studied abroad. Life at home was more or less painted as such: after secondary school, you work or attend uni, work some more, find a partner and you settle down and raise children in your community. However, when I graduated in 2012, something about this path didn’t feel right.
Months before that call, I left uni with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Communication and no plan. I was stuck in the rut of wanting to do something different with my time but not knowing what. I searched the area for unique and meaningful work opportunities while couchsurfing, babysitting and dogsitting to buy some time–the full story here!
When I learned about Camphill, I couldn’t believe it was a real place! The daily activities and workshops was unlike any job I ever had. Although I didn’t have any experience, I was drawn to this incredible opportunity.
What is Camphill?
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Even though Amy and the Admissions team told me what to expect, nothing truly prepares you for your first day in Camphill! Most likely because there are not many experiences to compare to it. The global Camphill movement has helped thousands of international volunteers find meaningful work in a safe and inclusive environment. Volunteers are of all ages and experience levels and usually apply for a gap year, career break or sabbatical, social work experience and on short or long-term volunteering agreements?.
Camphill is a social initiative made up of inclusive communities for individuals with and without additional support needs to live and work together. Camphill places usually offer a mix of a work, home, academic and cultural life. The first community was founded on the principles of Anthroposophy during the Second World War at a time when many wanted to live in a more collaborative, intentional society. Today, there are more than 100 Camphill communities in over 20 countries worldwide!
You can learn new skills volunteering at Camphill
Most Camphills have multiple workshops and projects that you can easily get involved with. Over the years, I have developed a variety of skills and met international volunteers from nearly every continent. During my time in Scotland, for example, I worked in a craft studio with 9 other people who were crocheting, drawing, colouring, writing, weaving and creating a life-size paper mache wrestler!
Volunteering in the workshops is a major reason why I love volunteering at Camphill
Most Camphills have workshops in the morning after breakfast and in the afternoon after lunch and a rest. The types of workshops and whether they’re based indoors or outdoors are largely based on the community’s needs, climate, resources and location. Camphill also focuses on the growth and development of each individual and the sustainability of the land and the environment. Some of the workshops you might find are:
- Herb processing
- (Biodynamic) Farming
- (Biodynamic) Gardening
- Basketmaking
- Weaving
- Cooking
- Cleaning
- Papermaking
- Candlemaking
- Toy shop
- Bakery
- Café
- Store
- Craft studio
- Joinery/Carpentry/Woodworking
- Fruit, vegetable and meatpacking and distribution
- Felting
- Metalwork
Balance is important in communities. To complement the practical elements of the workshops, there is also a Camphill Academy to support volunteers’ ongoing education and development.
After your volunteer year, there are many options to stay involved with the Camphill movement
If you would like to apply to Camphill but are hesitant because you don’t have any experience, you’ll be happy to know that Camphill does not require you to have prior experience. Of course, it is appreciated if you do. Being flexible and having a willingness to learn are two great qualities to have in any Camphill setting.
In your first few months, there will be an induction to Camphill life but a fair amount of training is on the job. At the end of the volunteer year, some discuss the possibility of staying on longer with their community (if visa laws allow). Others decide to volunteer at another Camphill, travel, start uni or get a job. I’m pleased to say I have done all of the above! There is also the possibility to reapply as a volunteer (visa dependent) or offer your support for respite.
From my first year in Camphill to now, I have visited 14 Camphill Communities in Canada, the US, Scotland, Ireland and England! I started this wee journey because I was curious as to how each community maintained the ethos of the movement while running their community in their own unique way.
My long-term goal is to travel slowly to each Camphill community. If you are also considering his, I encourage you to keep an open mind and avoid comparing communities. They are all different in some way and it’s safe to assume that the experience you had in one will not be exactly the same as another. Camphills are also influenced by the local legislation and culture of the country where they are located.
Where to learn more about Camphill and where to find a list of the international Camphill communities
Naturally, each Camphill has its own requirements. To learn more about each community, watch their videos, check out their website and social media and request to reach out to previous volunteers. This will allow you to already come prepared with questions before an interview. You’ll also want to have an awareness of the costs involved with getting there (for example, flights, visas, etc.). Some Camphills will pay for your return ticket upon successful completion of your volunteer year but it’s good to find out beforehand.
Below are a few links with lists of international Camphill communities to get you started! More info on the application process here.
I’m happy that my friend Amy was so impressed with her time at Camphill that she felt the need to share it with me. From 2012 to now, Camphill has been my source for meaningful work, genuine interactions, safe travel and a sense of belonging that can only come from working and living in a community.
Even though I am currently not a full-time volunteer, I still find creative ways to stay involved with the Camphill movement. If you have volunteered at Camphill before, I would love to connect with you and hear your experience. If you have any questions about my time in Camphill, I would be happy to answer those as well!
Looking forward to connecting with you!
B the travelling MS x
P.S. You’re never too old for a gap year.
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