The history of our work

The winter camp takes place annually in a small farm in Piranguçú, State of Minas Gerais, approximately 9 km from Campos do Jordão. The place exists for over 40 years and used to shelter the summer and winter camps held by the Brazilian Christian Community for the Waldorf children.

In 2006, former Waldorf children (who participated as coordinators, counselors and helpers) got together to offer the same opportunity they had had in the past to 7 to 14 year-old children in poverty.  They wanted to give to these children the opportunity to experience a few days full of activities, care and attention, surrounded by nature. They believed that the rhythm at the camp, with its songs, handwork, physical activities, histories, healthy diet and cooperative atmosphere would make a difference in these children’s life. That year we managed to take 74 kids from two different peripheral communities of São Paulo. They were students from two fellow NGOs, our partners in this project since the beginning.

The accomplishment of our project in 2006 was a wonderful surprise for everyone due to the announcement that the farm was for sale.  It seemed to be impossible to continue with our project. However, the new landlord decided to allow us to use the space for our winter camp.  Thus, we were able to continue to provide a time full of peace, harmony and apprenticeship to the children and the volunteers.

Our second edition of Férias Solidárias da Araucária took place from July 24th to July 30th, 2007.  84 children were able to join us this time. We were glad to have among us some of the children who had participated last year. We believe it is important to keep the dream of returning to the camp alive, and not make it a one in a lifetime opportunity.  A group of 21 volunteers came all the way from Germany willing to contribute towards making the camp a success and to learn from the bonding between different cultures. It was definitely a very beautiful encounter, it was an exchange of experiences to keep for life. It is a demonstration that much can be done when we work under the value of solidarity.