Welcome to Arhaic Volunteering Camp!

About the Camp

The Arhaic Volunteering Camp is an annual initiative organized by the Arhaic Association, Ambulanța pentru Monumente, and the Romanian United Foundation. This Camp makes part of the cultural immersion program at RUF and brings together passionate individuals dedicated to heritage preservation and hands-on restoration work.

Key contributors include Valeria Lehene, President of the Arhaic Association and an experienced architect with over 20 years at the Sălaj County Directorate for Culture. She is joined by Bogdan Ilieș, a historian and researcher specializing in wooden churches, who holds a Ph.D. in History and leads the "Ambulanța pentru Monumente" civic program in Sălaj County. Together, they provide expertise, mentorship, and guidance, ensuring a meaningful and educational experience for all participants.

*The County Directorate for Culture is the state institution at the local/regional level, and is responsible for monitoring the national cultural heritage, including architectural heritage.

Our Vision

Restoring the Past, Shaping the Future: A Volunteering Journey of Heritage and Heart

Our camp is more than just a journey back to our roots, it’s a step forward in cultural preservation and personal development. We aim to instill a deep appreciation for Romania’s rich heritage, highlight the importance of community service, and empower participants with the skills and knowledge to make a lasting impact.

Why This Camp?

• Cultural Connection: Experience authentic Romanian village life and gain a deeper understanding of the traditions that shaped our ancestors.
• Conservation Efforts: Play an active role in preserving Romanian history by helping restore a historic wooden church.
• Personal Growth: Develop new skills, build lasting friendships, and experience the fulfillment of making a tangible difference through volunteer work.

Our Mission: Why We Are Organizing This Camp

Our objective is multifaceted, aiming not only to connect diaspora children with their rich Romanian heritage but also to instill a sense of responsibility, community, and cultural pride. Below, we outline the core reasons and aspirations behind this unique camp experience:

1. Cultural Connection: We aim to provide diaspora children with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the Romanian rural cultural heritage. By experiencing village life, historical monuments, and the traditions that have shaped our identity, we hope to forge a lasting bond between them and their ancestral land.

2. Unique Experiences: The camp offers a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing participants to engage in volunteer activities that bring them closer to the countryside's way of life, the current social realities of Romania, and the care we dedicate to our monuments. This engagement aims to provide a clearer understanding of their roots and identity.

3. Promoting Our Cause: We seek to raise awareness about the activities of our association and to highlight the beauty and significance of the Sălaj region, which is often overlooked by tourists. Showcasing traditions, monuments, and crafts, we endeavor to revitalize interest and appreciation for these cultural elements.

4. Education on Historical Preservation: It's essential for the younger generation to understand what a historical monument signifies, even if it's not among the most prominent or visible. We teach the importance of preserving our heritage, helping them realize the value of these monuments, which might not be immediately apparent.

5. Cultivating Appreciation for Romanian Culture: Our goal is to teach Romanian children to develop a deep appreciation for the importance of our culture. Through hands-on experiences and engagement, we aim to instill a sense of pride and connection to their cultural heritage.

6. Working and Learning Together: We offer a collaborative work experience among friends and peers, providing opportunities to meet new people, engage in physical work, and see the tangible results of their efforts. This process is designed to be enjoyable and fulfilling, emphasizing productivity and accomplishment.

7. Educating Our Children: As parents and educators, we wish to teach our children about our culture, its origins, and to appreciate our Romanian values and cultural heritage in great detail. It's about passing on knowledge and pride from one generation to the next.

8. Raising Awareness with RUF: We aim to increase awareness about the Arhaic organization and the mechanisms available for fundraising in support of Romanian organizations. By collecting funds for our organization and specific projects, we strive to enhance communication, awareness, and financial support for our cause.

Through this camp, we aspire to create a transformative experience that enriches, educates, and connects participants with the cultural heritage that is rightfully theirs, fostering a generation that values and preserves its rich history and traditions.

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