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Saint-Petersburg non-governmental non-profit youth organization «MIR TESSEN» («IT’S SMALL WORLD») was established in 1999. Supported by Committee of youth policy and relations with NGOs of Government of St Petersburg since 2003. Member of Regional Association of youth and children NGOs “The Roundtable of youth and children NGOs of St Petersburg”. Partner of Alliance of European Voluntary Service Organisations since 2005.
Our objectives
ü To develop mutual understanding and solidarity between people;
ü To promote tolerance and intercultural dialogue between young people all over the world;
ü To encourage youth to find their own value in the world and to improve intercultural communication, participating in non-formal education and cooperation;
ü To promote the idea international and national voluntary service in St-Petersburg and North-West of Russia;
ü To introduce Russian cultural in the world
Our activities
ü short terms volunteers workcamps: sending and hosting (Mir Tessen works in the field of international summer workcamps for five years);
ü EVS program;
ü organizing youth trainings in the field of intercultural learning;
Target group
Our main target group is young people aged 18 - 30. Most of them are students.
SPRING WORKCAMPS
Workcamps “White Nights” in Saint-Petersburg (MT 01, 03, 05)
Vasilievsky Island is the oldest part of Saint-Petersburg and the largest island in the Neva delta This project is organised in purpose to improve the territory of Vasilievsky Island (near Mir Tesen office) and to make repair of old historical building, where Mir Tessen situated.
We invite you to visit Vasilievsky Island at the period of White Nights in Saint-Petersburg. It’s the most favorite time for tourists - there is no real darkness at night. It’s a period of walking along the embankments, period of drawing of bridges to let different ships through. Mir Tessen does not receive any financial support for these project from municipality or any private sources to make camps happened, we have to charge the participation fee. Participation fee 100 Euro. It includes accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms). and making registration in St-Petersburg. Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual.
Language camps “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (MT 02, 04)
We introduce our project “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (for medium and advanced level speakers).
This project helps young people from any place of the world to discover Russian culture in appropriate environment.
This language-camp can’t be considered as professional courses or school. Getting certificates after the project is not intended. There will be daily classes, four academic hours per day (1 academic hour – 45 min) excluding Sunday (36 academic hours totally). The teacher will be native speaker with the degree of bachelor of Philological faculty (speciality: “Russian as Foreign”).
This project implies participation fee. Mir Tesen does not receive any financial support for this camp from municipality or any private sources to make camp happened, we have to charge the Participation fee of 260 Euro, which has to be paid by participants upon arrival to the camp. Participation fee includes registration in St-Petersburg, accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms) and teaching. Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual.
SUMMER WORKCAMPS
Workcamps “Country House” in Leningrad region (MT 06, 07)
Our organization considers projects dealing with Cultural Heritage to be one of priority directions. We have got an experience organizing workcamps on the territory of Leningrad region. The Country Houses of the Leningrad region are under the Russian Federation State protection as historical architectural monuments. We plan to invite about 36 international volunteers to these workcamps to give them possibility to discover Russian culture, taking part in Cultural Heritage workcamps. Special offer for these workcamps – “Pre-camp in St-Petersburg” –in magnificent northern capital of Russia.
Workcamps “Russian monasteries» in Leningrad region (MT 08)
In Leningrad region there are many monasteries, where original icons of XIV-XIII centuries were saved by monks and locals. Some of icons are miracaculous, its appearance was incredible and unaccountable. Now these saints are in solitary places where silences and wild nature. Monks often need help in their housekeeping and volunteers can participate in reconstruction of old chapel or improving territory near monastery. This project allow to be immersed (to dip) in quiet and calm atmosphere of small monastery, to know Russian culture of the Middle Ages, to get more information about orthodox religion and traditions.
Special offer for workcamp – “Pre-camp in St-Petersburg” –in magnificent northern capital of Russia.
Special Offer “Pre-camp in St Petersburg”
We suggest “Pre-camp in St Petersburg” - spending 3 days/2 nights in St-Petersburg before the workcamps (MT06, 07, 08, 09). This Offer is optional. It gives participants a chance to stay in St -Petersburg with other volunteers of their group and visit the main tourist attractions and the suburbs. Extra fee: 70 euro. It includes: accommodation in volunteer’s rooms in the building of Mir Tessen office (bed & breakfast); the city-tour by foot; visit to the world known St - Petersburg museum the Hermitage (Winter Palace) and the first fortress of St-Petersburg – Petropavlovskaya fortress. Besides participants can visit other interesting places (paid themselves).
Work in the Summer workcamps
Our workcamps last 13 days and take place in July-August. The number of participants in camp is 5 - 9 volunteers. As a rule volunteers work about 5 hours a day for 5 days a week. «Mir Tessen» provides food and accommodation as well as cultural activities.
Conditions for participation
The age of Volunteers should be between 18-30. Usually there are no special skills required from volunteers. Participants should be motivated to do voluntary work and be quite open for the new experiences. We kindly ask to send the motivation letter from the volunteer with the VEF and the copy of passport.
Camp leaders
There is 1-2 leaders at camp, who is responsible for work coordination and link between participants and the host. We train our leaders during the special sessions and seminars. Leaders participate in daily life equally with volunteers.
Insurance
In Russian camps insurance is not provided. Therefore volunteers need to bring their own insurance against illness, accident and third party risk.
Visa issues
We provide tourist visa to our volunteers TOURIST visa. We provide an invitation letter for a Tourist visa for the overwhelming majority of our volunteers. It is enough for participating in any short term project we organize. The invitation letter is made by tourist agencies, Mir Tessen acquire it from agency. Making invitation takes for 1-2 days, when we get it we send the invitation by fax and ordinary post to your Sending organization. For European and Asian volunteers visa’s cost is different (from 15 euro for European till 40 euro for Asian)
To arrange the Invitation we need the following data: First name, Last name, Gender, Date of birth, Your Passport number, scan Passport copy, date of issue and expiry, Citizenship.
What to bring
For all the camps volunteers should bring sleeping bag, work clothes & gloves, summer clothes & swimming suit, but also warm clothes and rain-coat because weather in St. Petersburg is really unpredictable. Volunteers are also asked to bring information about their country, photos, music, songbooks, games, musical instruments, etc to organize an intercultural evening.
Meeting point
The meeting point for the camps is “Mir Tessen” office in St Petersburg at the day camp begins. There is a possibility to meet volunteers at the airport or bus terminal in St Petersburg.
Info sheets
Camp details, practical information and travel directions will be sent to the exchange partners 2 weeks before beginning of the camp.
NGO «MIR TESSEN»
5-line Vasilyevsky Island, 4,
St-Petersburg, 199034, Russia
mir-tesen@peterlink.ru
www.mirtesen.org.ru
Tel. fax +7 (812)323 44 43, +7812323 43 87
President Irina Kataeva
Coordinator incoming: Luba Ermolaeva
Coordinator outgoing: Anna Fedorova
Coordinator EVS: Luba Ermolaeva
WELCOME TO ST-PETERSBURG!
«MIR TESSEN» WORKCAMPS 2008
SPRING CAMPS - 2008
MT 01 “White Nights” St Petersburg 29.04-10.05 RENO 5 vols 18-30 old
MT 03 “White Nights” St Petersburg 26.05-06.06 RENO 5 vols 18-30 old
MT 05 “White Nights” St Petersburg 23.06-04.07 RENO 5 vols 18-30 old
Project: This project is organized in purpose to improve the territory of Vasilievsky Island. Vasilievsky Island is the oldest part of Saint-Petersburg and the largest island in the Neva delta. From the very foundation of St. Petersburg, Vasilievsky Island was intended to become the administrative, scientific and cultural heart of downtown St Petersburg There are SPb state university, Academy of Sciences and Arts, Mountain Institute. Many well-known museums are situated on the island, such as, first Russian museum – The museum of anthropology and ethnography, founded by Peter I and the best known as, Kunstkamera. We invite you to visit Vasilievsky Island at the period of White Nights in St-Petersburg. It’s the most favorite time for tourists - there is no real darkness at night. It’s a period of walking along the embankments, period of bridges drawing to let different ships through. White nights are famous all over the world. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: The volunteers will be engaged in improving the territory of Vasilievsky Island (near “Mir Tessen”) and making repair (outside and inside) of old historical building, where Mir Tessen situated. Various works, not requiring any special qualifications: to seat the grass, bushes and flowers; to paint the iron fenders of the windows. Inside building: to paint walls and windows, to decorate rooms. Creative volunteers you are welcome! Accommodation: in flat or volunteer’s rooms in the building of Mir Tessen office. There is a shower and place for cooking. Cooking and cleaning participants will do themselves. Location: St Petersburg (http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture). Terminal: St Petersburg Airport PULKOVO-2. SPECIAL
REMARK: Participation fee 100 Euro. It includes accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms) and making registration in St-Petersburg. Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual. Leisure time: Leisure possibilities are more than various. St. Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia - so you will have the opportunity to visit numerous museums, theatres, galleries and exhibitions. Saint- Petersburg is world-famous city (five million people) with its great history, rich Cultural Heritage, imaging all kinds of three-century architecture etc. Nowadays St Petersburg is a high-developed city where young people come to study and live from all places of our big country (there are more than 60 Universities). You can go to some country residences for Emperors, Grand Princes and grandees: Peterhof, the capital of fountains (www.peterhof.org), Tsarskoye Selo (http://pushkin-town.net/), Pavlovsk (http://www.pavlovsk.org/english/, take the city-tour.
MT 02 “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (med.) Saint-Petersburg 12.05-23.05 LANG 7 vols 18-30 old
MT 04 “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (adv.) Saint-Petersburg 09.06-20.06 LANG 7 vols 18-30 old
Project: 2007 year was announced a year of Russian language in the world. It caused starting our new project – language camp. We plan to support this project and expand it. We guess to invite grand-grandson of Russian philosopher and writer Fedor Dostoevsky. We consider assistance learning Russian language, whose native speakers were such famous writers as Pushkin, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, to be significant in order to give possibility for young people to discover Russian culture. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English, Russian. Work: There is no physical work as in usual workcamp. The group of people from different countries will be formed as in ordinary workcamp, including living and spending leisure time together, but main idea of the project is to allow volunteers increase their Russian by taking part in informal study. There will be daily classes, four academic hours per day, totally 36 academic hours (1 academic hour – 45 min), excluding Sunday. The methodology of teaching is formed subject to linguistic-cultured component. The teacher will be native speaker with the degree of bachelor of Philological faculty (speciality: “Russian as Foreign”). We ask volunteers to send us their motivation letters to the workcamp (in English). Note: This language-camp can’t be considered as professional courses or school. Getting certificates after the project is not intended. Participants should speak at least medium Russian. Accommodation: accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms). There is a shower and place for cooking. Cooking and cleaning participants will do themselves. Location: St Petersburg (http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture). Terminal: St Petersburg Airport PULKOVO-2. Special Remark: This project implies participation fee. Mir Tessen does not receive any financial support for this camp from municipality or any private sources to make camp happened, we have to charge the Participation fee of 260 Euro, which has to be paid by participants upon arrival to the camp. Participation fee includes registration in St-Petersburg, accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms) and teaching 36 academic hours (1 academic hour – 45 min). Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual. Leisure time: Leisure possibilities are more than various. St. Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia - so you will have the opportunity to visit numerous museums, theatres, galleries and exhibitions. Saint- Petersburg is world-famous city (five million people) with its great history, rich Cultural Heritage, imaging all kinds of three-century architecture etc. Nowadays St Petersburg is a high-developed city where young people come to study and live from all places of our big country (there are more than 60 Universities). You can go to some country residences for Emperors, Grand Princes and grandees: Peterhof, the capital of fountains (www.peterhof.org), Tsarskoye Selo (http://pushkin-town.net/), Pavlovsk (http://www.pavlovsk.org/english/, take the city-tour etc.
SUMMER CAMPS 2008
MT 06Country House “Tsar’s hunting” Leningrad Region 06.07-18.07 ENVI 9 +2vols 18-30
Project: This workcamp is close to the famous wonderful city St Petersburg. http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture. Country Houses of the Leningrad region were built in 18-19 centuries. Among the owners there were members of the royal family and famous statesmen, military leaders, artists, composers, architects, writers, such as Tchaikovsky, Tolstoy, Nabokov, Rimsky-Korsakov, Aivazovsky, Benya, Vrangel. These Country Houses combine the beauty of nature with elegance of architecture, luxurious lifestyle with cozy nooks of the countryside. There is a lake for swimming. Each Country House is a unique phenomenon, the design of its owner. Nevertheless, during the Soviet times many of them were nearly ruined. The other part was used for hospitals, schools, military institutions, sanatoriums, child institutions. Therefore many of country houses were damaged, especially the parks, landscapes and interiors. We want to bring the former meaning to The Country Houses as pieces of world heritage. Today the restoration of The Country Houses is an important deal together with the renewal of the unique parks. The Country Houses of the Leningrad region are under the Russian Federation State protection as historical architectural monuments. The owner of this country house was Aleksei Razumovskii – statesmen during the rule of empress Elizaveta. Russian empress often visited this place for tsar’s hunting and merry-making.The combination of beautiful nature in the Country House in Leningrad region and proximity to St Petersburg makes this project very attractive. Participants: 9 international and 2 local volunteers. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: The volunteers will be engaged in improving the parks: take care of plantation of trees, mow the meadows, cure the trees, clean the hollows, sweep the grounds, cleaning them from old grass, leaves, brunches, twigs, garbage etc. The other activities are to root out verdure and weeds, rake leaves into heaps. Accommodation will be provided at the local school. Volunteers will cook themselves in the kitchen. There is no shower, but volunteers will go to special Russian sauna (banya), what is traditional for local people. There is a lake for swimming. Location: The Country House is situated in small town Gostilitsy in Lomonosov District (50 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is mobile (microbuses go every 20 minutes). It takes about one hour by bus to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Leisure time: Leisure possibilities are various. As The Country House is situated close to St Petersburg, it is possible to visit St Petersburg in a free time. There is a sport site, place for swimming and horse farm near The Country House. There are many cultural places around place of living which volunteers can visit (paid themselves) such famous cities as Lomonosov (Oranienbaum): (http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture/museums/oranienbaum),Tsarskoye Selo: http://pushkin-town.net/; Pavlovsk: http://www.pavlovsk.org/english/; Gatchina: http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture/museums/gatchina . Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from home country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating other native features. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions).
MT 07 Country House “Stork’s nest” Leningrad region 20.07-01.08 ENVI 9+2 vols 18-30 old
Project: This workcamp is close to the famous wonderful city St-Petersburg http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture. Country Houses of the Leningrad region were built in 18-19 centuries. Among the owners there were members of the royal family and famous statesmen, military leaders, artists, composers, architects, writers, such as Tchaikovsky, Tolstoy, Nabokov, Rimsky-Korsakov, Aivazovsky, Benya, Vrangel. These Country Houses combine the beauty of nature with elegance of architecture, luxurious lifestyle with cozy nooks of the countryside. There is a chain of lakes. Each Country House is a unique phenomenon, the design of its owner. People met each other there, got acquainted, fall in love, found inspiration and had rest. Nevertheless, during the Soviet times many of them were nearly ruined. The other part was used for hospitals, schools, military institutions, sanatoriums, child institutions. Therefore many of country houses were damaged, especially the parks, landscapes and interiors. We want to bring the former meaning to the country estates as pieces of world heritage. Today the restoration of the country estates is an important deal together with the renewal of the unique parks. The Country Houses of the Leningrad region are under the Russian Federation State protection as historical architectural monuments. On the roof of country house there is a nest of storks. Every year small storks appear on the top of ruined house. During summer you can watch bird’s families life. Participants: 9 international and 2 local volunteers. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: The volunteers will be engaged in improving the parks: take care of plantation of trees, mow the meadows, cure the trees, clean the hollows, sweep the grounds, cleaning them from old grass, leaves, brunches, twigs, garbage etc. The other activities are to root out verdure and weeds, rake leaves into heaps. Accommodation will be provided in recreation center or local schools in small town Sabsk not far from working place. (about 1,5-2 km) .Volunteers will cook themselves in the kitchen. Location: The Country House is situated in Volosovo District near small town Sabsk (150 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is not mobile. It takes about two hours by bus to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St-Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Leisure time: This workcamp is attractive not only because of neighborhood of St Petersburg.Besides, this place will open all variety of Russian Countryside: here you can listen to natural risers in the morning and visit the beautiful river - Luga. Besides it is possible to do fishing (volunteers can take fishing rod with themselves). It is known that Russian culture and life in origin is demonstrated by Russian countryside. So participants can get to know genuine Russia on their own experience in one of favorable places. It is the unique place of living which combines beautiful nature with its clear ecology. Ecological place allows making a good leisure time. Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from their country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating others characteristic features of home country. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions).
MT 08 “Mysterious peninsula” Monastery Leningrad Region 03.08-15.08 ENVI/RENO 9+2 vols 18-30 old
Project In Leningrad region there are many monasteries, where original icons of XIV-XIII centuries were saved by monks and locals. Some of icons are wonder-working, its appearance was incredible and unaccountable. Now these saints are in solitary places where silences and wild nature. Monks often need help in their housekeeping and volunteers can participate in reconstruction of old chapel or improving territory near monastery. This project allow to be immersed (to dip) in quiet and calm atmosphere of small monastery, to know Russian culture of the Middle Ages, to get more information about orthodox religion and traditions. Participants: 9 international and 2 local volunteers. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: for male there is hard work – renovation of ruined chapel. Also volunteers will be engaged in improving the territory near monastery: take care of flowers, vegetables and etc; sweep the grounds, cleaning them from old grass, leaves, brunches, twigs, garbage etc. Accommodation will be provided in the building on the bank of wonderful lake near Monastery, 1 km from working place. Volunteers will cook themselves in the special place. Location: The Project is situated in Luga District near Tcheremenetskoe lake (about 200 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is mobile. It takes about two hours by train to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St-Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Leisure time: This workcamp is attractive not only because of neighborhood of St Petersburg. First of all the workcamp is situated close to one of the most ancient Russian cities Velikij Novgorod (http://www.novgorod.ru/eng/info/cityguide/index.htm). It was built in 9-10 centuries. The history of Novgorod is closely linked with all major stages in the life of Russian state. The objects of its cultural heritage are registered in the table of universal importance objects by UNESCO. There are many old churches of the 12-13 centuries. One of them contains world known frescos of Pheophan Greek. Besides, this place will open all variety of Russian Countryside: here you can listen to natural risers in the morning and visit the chain of beautiful lakes. Besides it is possible to do fishing (volunteers can take fishing rod with themselves). It is known that Russian culture and life in origin is demonstrated by Russian countryside. So participants can get to know genuine Russia on their own experience in one of favorable places. It is the unique place of living which combines beautiful nature with its clear ecology. Ecological place allows making a good leisure time. Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from their country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating others characteristic features of home country. Volunteers should be patient to orthodox religion. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions).
MT 09 “Fantastic cave” Leningrad Region 17.08-29.08 ENVI 9+2 vols 18-30 old
Project Amazing cave from 18 centaury is situated in a unique place where nature is untouched , near river Dolgaya (in Russian means Long) with such clean water so you can drink it just from the river without extra cleaning, deep and beautiful lake Dolgoe. (which also means long) The mysterious cave is situated 160 km fare from St. Petersburg in Clanzevskiy region There was a monastery right inside the cave before .According the legend this place was visited by the Blessed Virgin who left her trace on the stone inside the river near cave. And it is still there. Local people tell that if you step on this trace and wish something this dream will come true. The cave is situated in a very beautiful mountain on the bank of the river. The entrance to the cave is 150 sm height and around 2, 5 m. inside Inside the cave there is a Saint water spring. Work is mostly cleaning the place before the cave (to root out verdure and weeds, rake leaves into heaps) also the task will be to accomplish the road which goes from the Cave till close village Zaruch’e. Legend says that the Blessed Virgin went by this road. Accommodation Volunteers will be hosted in house of local priest in a village Zaruch’e or in the pioneer’s camp. Cooking facilities are provided. Participants will prepare meals themselves. There is a lake with clean water really close to the leaving place. Also participants will have a chance to experience Russian traditional BANYA. Leisure time. All camping activities like small hiking, swimming in the lake and river, fishing, camp fire. At the weekend volunteers will also have an opportunity to have an excursion Ivan-gorod (ancient Russian town) on the border with Estonia and see very famous fortress Location: The Country House is situated in Slantsy District near small town Zaruch”e (170 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is not mobile. It takes about 3 hours by bus to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St-Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from their country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating others characteristic features of home country. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions)..
WELCOME TO ST-PETERSBURG!
Our objectives
ü To develop mutual understanding and solidarity between people;
ü To promote tolerance and intercultural dialogue between young people all over the world;
ü To encourage youth to find their own value in the world and to improve intercultural communication, participating in non-formal education and cooperation;
ü To promote the idea international and national voluntary service in St-Petersburg and North-West of Russia;
ü To introduce Russian cultural in the world
Our activities
ü short terms volunteers workcamps: sending and hosting (Mir Tessen works in the field of international summer workcamps for five years);
ü EVS program;
ü organizing youth trainings in the field of intercultural learning;
Target group
Our main target group is young people aged 18 - 30. Most of them are students.
SPRING WORKCAMPS
Workcamps “White Nights” in Saint-Petersburg (MT 01, 03, 05)
Vasilievsky Island is the oldest part of Saint-Petersburg and the largest island in the Neva delta This project is organised in purpose to improve the territory of Vasilievsky Island (near Mir Tesen office) and to make repair of old historical building, where Mir Tessen situated.
We invite you to visit Vasilievsky Island at the period of White Nights in Saint-Petersburg. It’s the most favorite time for tourists - there is no real darkness at night. It’s a period of walking along the embankments, period of drawing of bridges to let different ships through. Mir Tessen does not receive any financial support for these project from municipality or any private sources to make camps happened, we have to charge the participation fee. Participation fee 100 Euro. It includes accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms). and making registration in St-Petersburg. Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual.
Language camps “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (MT 02, 04)
We introduce our project “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (for medium and advanced level speakers).
This project helps young people from any place of the world to discover Russian culture in appropriate environment.
This language-camp can’t be considered as professional courses or school. Getting certificates after the project is not intended. There will be daily classes, four academic hours per day (1 academic hour – 45 min) excluding Sunday (36 academic hours totally). The teacher will be native speaker with the degree of bachelor of Philological faculty (speciality: “Russian as Foreign”).
This project implies participation fee. Mir Tesen does not receive any financial support for this camp from municipality or any private sources to make camp happened, we have to charge the Participation fee of 260 Euro, which has to be paid by participants upon arrival to the camp. Participation fee includes registration in St-Petersburg, accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms) and teaching. Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual.
SUMMER WORKCAMPS
Workcamps “Country House” in Leningrad region (MT 06, 07)
Our organization considers projects dealing with Cultural Heritage to be one of priority directions. We have got an experience organizing workcamps on the territory of Leningrad region. The Country Houses of the Leningrad region are under the Russian Federation State protection as historical architectural monuments. We plan to invite about 36 international volunteers to these workcamps to give them possibility to discover Russian culture, taking part in Cultural Heritage workcamps. Special offer for these workcamps – “Pre-camp in St-Petersburg” –in magnificent northern capital of Russia.
Workcamps “Russian monasteries» in Leningrad region (MT 08)
In Leningrad region there are many monasteries, where original icons of XIV-XIII centuries were saved by monks and locals. Some of icons are miracaculous, its appearance was incredible and unaccountable. Now these saints are in solitary places where silences and wild nature. Monks often need help in their housekeeping and volunteers can participate in reconstruction of old chapel or improving territory near monastery. This project allow to be immersed (to dip) in quiet and calm atmosphere of small monastery, to know Russian culture of the Middle Ages, to get more information about orthodox religion and traditions.
Special offer for workcamp – “Pre-camp in St-Petersburg” –in magnificent northern capital of Russia.
Special Offer “Pre-camp in St Petersburg”
We suggest “Pre-camp in St Petersburg” - spending 3 days/2 nights in St-Petersburg before the workcamps (MT06, 07, 08, 09). This Offer is optional. It gives participants a chance to stay in St -Petersburg with other volunteers of their group and visit the main tourist attractions and the suburbs. Extra fee: 70 euro. It includes: accommodation in volunteer’s rooms in the building of Mir Tessen office (bed & breakfast); the city-tour by foot; visit to the world known St - Petersburg museum the Hermitage (Winter Palace) and the first fortress of St-Petersburg – Petropavlovskaya fortress. Besides participants can visit other interesting places (paid themselves).
Work in the Summer workcamps
Our workcamps last 13 days and take place in July-August. The number of participants in camp is 5 - 9 volunteers. As a rule volunteers work about 5 hours a day for 5 days a week. «Mir Tessen» provides food and accommodation as well as cultural activities.
Conditions for participation
The age of Volunteers should be between 18-30. Usually there are no special skills required from volunteers. Participants should be motivated to do voluntary work and be quite open for the new experiences. We kindly ask to send the motivation letter from the volunteer with the VEF and the copy of passport.
Camp leaders
There is 1-2 leaders at camp, who is responsible for work coordination and link between participants and the host. We train our leaders during the special sessions and seminars. Leaders participate in daily life equally with volunteers.
Insurance
In Russian camps insurance is not provided. Therefore volunteers need to bring their own insurance against illness, accident and third party risk.
Visa issues
We provide tourist visa to our volunteers TOURIST visa. We provide an invitation letter for a Tourist visa for the overwhelming majority of our volunteers. It is enough for participating in any short term project we organize. The invitation letter is made by tourist agencies, Mir Tessen acquire it from agency. Making invitation takes for 1-2 days, when we get it we send the invitation by fax and ordinary post to your Sending organization. For European and Asian volunteers visa’s cost is different (from 15 euro for European till 40 euro for Asian)
To arrange the Invitation we need the following data: First name, Last name, Gender, Date of birth, Your Passport number, scan Passport copy, date of issue and expiry, Citizenship.
What to bring
For all the camps volunteers should bring sleeping bag, work clothes & gloves, summer clothes & swimming suit, but also warm clothes and rain-coat because weather in St. Petersburg is really unpredictable. Volunteers are also asked to bring information about their country, photos, music, songbooks, games, musical instruments, etc to organize an intercultural evening.
Meeting point
The meeting point for the camps is “Mir Tessen” office in St Petersburg at the day camp begins. There is a possibility to meet volunteers at the airport or bus terminal in St Petersburg.
Info sheets
Camp details, practical information and travel directions will be sent to the exchange partners 2 weeks before beginning of the camp.
NGO «MIR TESSEN»
5-line Vasilyevsky Island, 4,
St-Petersburg, 199034, Russia
mir-tesen@peterlink.ru
www.mirtesen.org.ru
Tel. fax +7 (812)323 44 43, +7812323 43 87
President Irina Kataeva
Coordinator incoming: Luba Ermolaeva
Coordinator outgoing: Anna Fedorova
Coordinator EVS: Luba Ermolaeva
WELCOME TO ST-PETERSBURG!
«MIR TESSEN» WORKCAMPS 2008
| CAMP | WORKCAMP’S NAME | LOCATION | WORKCAMP DATE | TYPE | VOLS | Participat FEE (EURO) |
| MT 01 | “White Nights” | Saint-Petersburg | 29.04-10.05 | RENO | 5 | 100 |
| MT 02 | ‘Learning Dostoevsky’s language’ (Medium level) | Saint-Petersburg | 12.05-23.05 | LANG | 7 | 260 |
| MT 03 | “White Nights” | Saint-Petersburg | 26.05-06.06 | RENO | 5 | 100 |
| MT 04 | ‘Learning Dostoevsky’s language’(Advance level) | Saint-Petersburg | 09.06-20.06 | LANG | 7 | 260 |
| MT 05 | “White Nights” | Saint-Petersburg | 23.06-04.07 | RENO | 5 | 100 |
| MT 06 | Country House “Tsar’s hunting” | Leningrad Region (Lomonosov District) | 06.07-18.07 | ENVI | 9 (+2ru) | |
| MT 07 | Country House “Stork’s nest” | Leningrad Region (Volosovo District) | 20.07-01.08 | ENVI | 9 (+2ru) | |
| MT 08 | “Mysterious peninsula” Monastery | Leningrad Region (Luga District) | 03.08-15.08 | ENVI/RENO | 9 (+2ru) | |
| МТ 09 | “Fantastic cave” | Leningrad Region (Slantsy District) | 17.08-29.08 | ENVI | 9 (+2ru) |
SPRING CAMPS - 2008
MT 01 “White Nights” St Petersburg 29.04-10.05 RENO 5 vols 18-30 old
MT 03 “White Nights” St Petersburg 26.05-06.06 RENO 5 vols 18-30 old
MT 05 “White Nights” St Petersburg 23.06-04.07 RENO 5 vols 18-30 old
Project: This project is organized in purpose to improve the territory of Vasilievsky Island. Vasilievsky Island is the oldest part of Saint-Petersburg and the largest island in the Neva delta. From the very foundation of St. Petersburg, Vasilievsky Island was intended to become the administrative, scientific and cultural heart of downtown St Petersburg There are SPb state university, Academy of Sciences and Arts, Mountain Institute. Many well-known museums are situated on the island, such as, first Russian museum – The museum of anthropology and ethnography, founded by Peter I and the best known as, Kunstkamera. We invite you to visit Vasilievsky Island at the period of White Nights in St-Petersburg. It’s the most favorite time for tourists - there is no real darkness at night. It’s a period of walking along the embankments, period of bridges drawing to let different ships through. White nights are famous all over the world. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: The volunteers will be engaged in improving the territory of Vasilievsky Island (near “Mir Tessen”) and making repair (outside and inside) of old historical building, where Mir Tessen situated. Various works, not requiring any special qualifications: to seat the grass, bushes and flowers; to paint the iron fenders of the windows. Inside building: to paint walls and windows, to decorate rooms. Creative volunteers you are welcome! Accommodation: in flat or volunteer’s rooms in the building of Mir Tessen office. There is a shower and place for cooking. Cooking and cleaning participants will do themselves. Location: St Petersburg (http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture). Terminal: St Petersburg Airport PULKOVO-2. SPECIAL
REMARK: Participation fee 100 Euro. It includes accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms) and making registration in St-Petersburg. Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual. Leisure time: Leisure possibilities are more than various. St. Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia - so you will have the opportunity to visit numerous museums, theatres, galleries and exhibitions. Saint- Petersburg is world-famous city (five million people) with its great history, rich Cultural Heritage, imaging all kinds of three-century architecture etc. Nowadays St Petersburg is a high-developed city where young people come to study and live from all places of our big country (there are more than 60 Universities). You can go to some country residences for Emperors, Grand Princes and grandees: Peterhof, the capital of fountains (www.peterhof.org), Tsarskoye Selo (http://pushkin-town.net/), Pavlovsk (http://www.pavlovsk.org/english/, take the city-tour.
MT 02 “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (med.) Saint-Petersburg 12.05-23.05 LANG 7 vols 18-30 old
MT 04 “Learning Dostoevsky’s language” (adv.) Saint-Petersburg 09.06-20.06 LANG 7 vols 18-30 old
Project: 2007 year was announced a year of Russian language in the world. It caused starting our new project – language camp. We plan to support this project and expand it. We guess to invite grand-grandson of Russian philosopher and writer Fedor Dostoevsky. We consider assistance learning Russian language, whose native speakers were such famous writers as Pushkin, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, to be significant in order to give possibility for young people to discover Russian culture. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English, Russian. Work: There is no physical work as in usual workcamp. The group of people from different countries will be formed as in ordinary workcamp, including living and spending leisure time together, but main idea of the project is to allow volunteers increase their Russian by taking part in informal study. There will be daily classes, four academic hours per day, totally 36 academic hours (1 academic hour – 45 min), excluding Sunday. The methodology of teaching is formed subject to linguistic-cultured component. The teacher will be native speaker with the degree of bachelor of Philological faculty (speciality: “Russian as Foreign”). We ask volunteers to send us their motivation letters to the workcamp (in English). Note: This language-camp can’t be considered as professional courses or school. Getting certificates after the project is not intended. Participants should speak at least medium Russian. Accommodation: accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms). There is a shower and place for cooking. Cooking and cleaning participants will do themselves. Location: St Petersburg (http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture). Terminal: St Petersburg Airport PULKOVO-2. Special Remark: This project implies participation fee. Mir Tessen does not receive any financial support for this camp from municipality or any private sources to make camp happened, we have to charge the Participation fee of 260 Euro, which has to be paid by participants upon arrival to the camp. Participation fee includes registration in St-Petersburg, accommodation in center of St-Petersburg (flat or volunteer’s rooms) and teaching 36 academic hours (1 academic hour – 45 min). Food is free of charge. Invitation letter is paid individual. Leisure time: Leisure possibilities are more than various. St. Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia - so you will have the opportunity to visit numerous museums, theatres, galleries and exhibitions. Saint- Petersburg is world-famous city (five million people) with its great history, rich Cultural Heritage, imaging all kinds of three-century architecture etc. Nowadays St Petersburg is a high-developed city where young people come to study and live from all places of our big country (there are more than 60 Universities). You can go to some country residences for Emperors, Grand Princes and grandees: Peterhof, the capital of fountains (www.peterhof.org), Tsarskoye Selo (http://pushkin-town.net/), Pavlovsk (http://www.pavlovsk.org/english/, take the city-tour etc.
SUMMER CAMPS 2008
MT 06Country House “Tsar’s hunting” Leningrad Region 06.07-18.07 ENVI 9 +2vols 18-30
Project: This workcamp is close to the famous wonderful city St Petersburg. http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture. Country Houses of the Leningrad region were built in 18-19 centuries. Among the owners there were members of the royal family and famous statesmen, military leaders, artists, composers, architects, writers, such as Tchaikovsky, Tolstoy, Nabokov, Rimsky-Korsakov, Aivazovsky, Benya, Vrangel. These Country Houses combine the beauty of nature with elegance of architecture, luxurious lifestyle with cozy nooks of the countryside. There is a lake for swimming. Each Country House is a unique phenomenon, the design of its owner. Nevertheless, during the Soviet times many of them were nearly ruined. The other part was used for hospitals, schools, military institutions, sanatoriums, child institutions. Therefore many of country houses were damaged, especially the parks, landscapes and interiors. We want to bring the former meaning to The Country Houses as pieces of world heritage. Today the restoration of The Country Houses is an important deal together with the renewal of the unique parks. The Country Houses of the Leningrad region are under the Russian Federation State protection as historical architectural monuments. The owner of this country house was Aleksei Razumovskii – statesmen during the rule of empress Elizaveta. Russian empress often visited this place for tsar’s hunting and merry-making.The combination of beautiful nature in the Country House in Leningrad region and proximity to St Petersburg makes this project very attractive. Participants: 9 international and 2 local volunteers. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: The volunteers will be engaged in improving the parks: take care of plantation of trees, mow the meadows, cure the trees, clean the hollows, sweep the grounds, cleaning them from old grass, leaves, brunches, twigs, garbage etc. The other activities are to root out verdure and weeds, rake leaves into heaps. Accommodation will be provided at the local school. Volunteers will cook themselves in the kitchen. There is no shower, but volunteers will go to special Russian sauna (banya), what is traditional for local people. There is a lake for swimming. Location: The Country House is situated in small town Gostilitsy in Lomonosov District (50 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is mobile (microbuses go every 20 minutes). It takes about one hour by bus to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Leisure time: Leisure possibilities are various. As The Country House is situated close to St Petersburg, it is possible to visit St Petersburg in a free time. There is a sport site, place for swimming and horse farm near The Country House. There are many cultural places around place of living which volunteers can visit (paid themselves) such famous cities as Lomonosov (Oranienbaum): (http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture/museums/oranienbaum),Tsarskoye Selo: http://pushkin-town.net/; Pavlovsk: http://www.pavlovsk.org/english/; Gatchina: http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture/museums/gatchina . Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from home country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating other native features. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions).
MT 07 Country House “Stork’s nest” Leningrad region 20.07-01.08 ENVI 9+2 vols 18-30 old
Project: This workcamp is close to the famous wonderful city St-Petersburg http://eng.gov.spb.ru/culture. Country Houses of the Leningrad region were built in 18-19 centuries. Among the owners there were members of the royal family and famous statesmen, military leaders, artists, composers, architects, writers, such as Tchaikovsky, Tolstoy, Nabokov, Rimsky-Korsakov, Aivazovsky, Benya, Vrangel. These Country Houses combine the beauty of nature with elegance of architecture, luxurious lifestyle with cozy nooks of the countryside. There is a chain of lakes. Each Country House is a unique phenomenon, the design of its owner. People met each other there, got acquainted, fall in love, found inspiration and had rest. Nevertheless, during the Soviet times many of them were nearly ruined. The other part was used for hospitals, schools, military institutions, sanatoriums, child institutions. Therefore many of country houses were damaged, especially the parks, landscapes and interiors. We want to bring the former meaning to the country estates as pieces of world heritage. Today the restoration of the country estates is an important deal together with the renewal of the unique parks. The Country Houses of the Leningrad region are under the Russian Federation State protection as historical architectural monuments. On the roof of country house there is a nest of storks. Every year small storks appear on the top of ruined house. During summer you can watch bird’s families life. Participants: 9 international and 2 local volunteers. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: The volunteers will be engaged in improving the parks: take care of plantation of trees, mow the meadows, cure the trees, clean the hollows, sweep the grounds, cleaning them from old grass, leaves, brunches, twigs, garbage etc. The other activities are to root out verdure and weeds, rake leaves into heaps. Accommodation will be provided in recreation center or local schools in small town Sabsk not far from working place. (about 1,5-2 km) .Volunteers will cook themselves in the kitchen. Location: The Country House is situated in Volosovo District near small town Sabsk (150 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is not mobile. It takes about two hours by bus to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St-Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Leisure time: This workcamp is attractive not only because of neighborhood of St Petersburg.Besides, this place will open all variety of Russian Countryside: here you can listen to natural risers in the morning and visit the beautiful river - Luga. Besides it is possible to do fishing (volunteers can take fishing rod with themselves). It is known that Russian culture and life in origin is demonstrated by Russian countryside. So participants can get to know genuine Russia on their own experience in one of favorable places. It is the unique place of living which combines beautiful nature with its clear ecology. Ecological place allows making a good leisure time. Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from their country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating others characteristic features of home country. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions).
MT 08 “Mysterious peninsula” Monastery Leningrad Region 03.08-15.08 ENVI/RENO 9+2 vols 18-30 old
Project In Leningrad region there are many monasteries, where original icons of XIV-XIII centuries were saved by monks and locals. Some of icons are wonder-working, its appearance was incredible and unaccountable. Now these saints are in solitary places where silences and wild nature. Monks often need help in their housekeeping and volunteers can participate in reconstruction of old chapel or improving territory near monastery. This project allow to be immersed (to dip) in quiet and calm atmosphere of small monastery, to know Russian culture of the Middle Ages, to get more information about orthodox religion and traditions. Participants: 9 international and 2 local volunteers. Age: 18-30 years old. Language: English. Work: for male there is hard work – renovation of ruined chapel. Also volunteers will be engaged in improving the territory near monastery: take care of flowers, vegetables and etc; sweep the grounds, cleaning them from old grass, leaves, brunches, twigs, garbage etc. Accommodation will be provided in the building on the bank of wonderful lake near Monastery, 1 km from working place. Volunteers will cook themselves in the special place. Location: The Project is situated in Luga District near Tcheremenetskoe lake (about 200 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is mobile. It takes about two hours by train to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St-Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Leisure time: This workcamp is attractive not only because of neighborhood of St Petersburg. First of all the workcamp is situated close to one of the most ancient Russian cities Velikij Novgorod (http://www.novgorod.ru/eng/info/cityguide/index.htm). It was built in 9-10 centuries. The history of Novgorod is closely linked with all major stages in the life of Russian state. The objects of its cultural heritage are registered in the table of universal importance objects by UNESCO. There are many old churches of the 12-13 centuries. One of them contains world known frescos of Pheophan Greek. Besides, this place will open all variety of Russian Countryside: here you can listen to natural risers in the morning and visit the chain of beautiful lakes. Besides it is possible to do fishing (volunteers can take fishing rod with themselves). It is known that Russian culture and life in origin is demonstrated by Russian countryside. So participants can get to know genuine Russia on their own experience in one of favorable places. It is the unique place of living which combines beautiful nature with its clear ecology. Ecological place allows making a good leisure time. Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from their country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating others characteristic features of home country. Volunteers should be patient to orthodox religion. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions).
MT 09 “Fantastic cave” Leningrad Region 17.08-29.08 ENVI 9+2 vols 18-30 old
Project Amazing cave from 18 centaury is situated in a unique place where nature is untouched , near river Dolgaya (in Russian means Long) with such clean water so you can drink it just from the river without extra cleaning, deep and beautiful lake Dolgoe. (which also means long) The mysterious cave is situated 160 km fare from St. Petersburg in Clanzevskiy region There was a monastery right inside the cave before .According the legend this place was visited by the Blessed Virgin who left her trace on the stone inside the river near cave. And it is still there. Local people tell that if you step on this trace and wish something this dream will come true. The cave is situated in a very beautiful mountain on the bank of the river. The entrance to the cave is 150 sm height and around 2, 5 m. inside Inside the cave there is a Saint water spring. Work is mostly cleaning the place before the cave (to root out verdure and weeds, rake leaves into heaps) also the task will be to accomplish the road which goes from the Cave till close village Zaruch’e. Legend says that the Blessed Virgin went by this road. Accommodation Volunteers will be hosted in house of local priest in a village Zaruch’e or in the pioneer’s camp. Cooking facilities are provided. Participants will prepare meals themselves. There is a lake with clean water really close to the leaving place. Also participants will have a chance to experience Russian traditional BANYA. Leisure time. All camping activities like small hiking, swimming in the lake and river, fishing, camp fire. At the weekend volunteers will also have an opportunity to have an excursion Ivan-gorod (ancient Russian town) on the border with Estonia and see very famous fortress Location: The Country House is situated in Slantsy District near small town Zaruch”e (170 km from St Petersburg). Transport system is not mobile. It takes about 3 hours by bus to get the place. Terminal: Pulkovo-2 International Airport is located about 17 km from the St-Petersburg center. All the Railway and Bus Stations are situated in the range of city. St-Petersburg has a well-developed public transportation system. Meeting point: St Petersburg, “Mir Tessen” office (more information see Info sheet). Special remarks: Volunteers should bring working clothes, swimming dress, gloves and sleeping bags. Besides it would be good to take something special from their country (photos, food and small things) for international party in the workcamp and demonstrating others characteristic features of home country. P.S. “Mir tessen” keeps the right to change the workcamp to another similar (with the same conditions)..
WELCOME TO ST-PETERSBURG!
