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" The work camp was the best summer I've had ! "

Trevor Ostbye, Duke University freshman

Since the end of World War II, the College has hosted an International Workcamp for those interested in taking part in a group oriented work experience with other campers from around the world in a rustic French setting.

Every year participants renovate the old farm buildings and barracks that house today's refugees from Eastern Europe and Asia. The setting provides an atmosphere for great personal enrichment, sharing and cross-cultural exchange.

Physical work is the primary aim of the camp. This may entail painting, light masonry work, carpentry outside or inside according to the needs of the school. The schedule also includes time for leisure activities, group meetings, and excursions. The camp is usually terminated with an organized "Discovery Trip" through the French countryside which usually ends in Paris.

Nationalities represented in recent workcamps included the United States, France, Bulgaria,
Japan, England, Italy etc.

The place to help, learn, play and deepen your life.

2008 work camp

July 8 - 26. Global cost is about $ 2000

Setting

The school is in the village of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon at 3,300 feet in the Cevennes mountains. Living conditions at the school are rustic, and the food is simple but plentiful. The village of Le Chambon is about a 10-minute walk from the campus.

Participants and activities

There will be15 to 20 campers. In the mornings, you will renovate the historic school, and in the afternoons you will learn cuisine, practice French, meet European and Asian refugees, and play sports. Weekend activities include overnight hiking/camping trips to the mountains, day trips to Le Puy or the Tour de France.

Simple clothing

There is frost in the morning, but later the temperature can rise to 85 degrees. Bring jeans, shorts,
sweatshirt, bathing suit, rain jacket, towels, toilet items, work shoes, sports equipment, and old T-
shirts for painting. Optional are CD players, MP3s, iPods and CDs.

Safety Gear

For work you must bring the following: lab-style goggles for eye protection, ear protectors (plugs or
earphone style), leather-canvass work gloves, and 5 dust/respiration masks.

Laundry service

All items MUST be marked with an indelible marker. There is a laundry service once a week. Bedding (sheets and blankets) are provided, but you must bring your own towels.

No valuables

Leave expensive items at home and bring a padlock for your dorm locker.

Health & insurance information

You must have health insurance that is valid overseas. There is a local Doctor in Le Chambon
available during the program in case there are any medical problems or illnesses.

Money

Bring a debit or credit card and remember the PIN. Bring enough cash for the trip. $400 of
spending money should be adequate for three weeks. Withdraw money from ATM machines in town.

Pack light

Get everything into a soft luggage container (shoulder strap or backpack type) and a small
backpack. Remember, you will be carrying everything yourself.

Advice from past campers

• Don’t worry if your French doesn’t succeed at first; it takes time!
• Say BONJOUR! to everyone; ask questions, be persistent.
• Leave yourself open to try new things, be prepared for the unexpected.
• Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty.
• Pack light
• Pack so as to use the tennis courts, the soccer field, the track, trails, and and to ride mountain bikes.
• Read the book Lest Innocent Blood be Shed.