For ISV’s first season running volunteer projects in Croatia, the 2008 season saw some great achievements met by our dedicated volunteers. In addition to the work accomplishments of ISV’s volunteers listed below; our profile in the country has been established and has attracted the attention of a number of other organizations such as Suncokret, who run community development projects in northern Croatia. Future partnerships such as this will facilitate the expansion of the Eastern Europe program and make it possible for our increasing number of volunteers to effect positive change throughout this region.
As the program continues to develop, ISV is excitedly working towards hosting the first Eastern Europe Volunteer Project Workshop. A gathering of private landowners, NGO’s, and other stakeholders designed to help small organizations and landowners develop volunteer programs, strengthen the components of existing projects, as well as share experiences and innovative ideas.
Project
# Students
# Groups
Orphan Bear Project
25
3
Tasks Accomplished
- Construction of three bear swimming pools (30cu.m/1050cu.ft)
- Construction of one forest water reservoir for local wildlife (50cu.m/1750cu.ft)
- 120hrs maintaining existing bear enclosures
- 48hrs creating souvenirs to raise funds for orphan bears
- 32hrs spent on team building initiatives with local school children
- 69hrs spent feeding orphan bears
- 364hrs spent maintaining and improving the center for the education of visitors
- 40hrs building an extension to the volunteer headquarters
- Construction on one new bear enclosure (140ft trench dug and 45 steel supporting posts cemented)
Project
# Students
# Groups
Griffon Vulture Project
17
3
Tasks Accomplished
- 142hrs of public education on griffon vultures and environmental/cultural sustainability
- One stone labyrinth constructed to enable people to interact with nature
- 150m of stone walls maintained to preserve local heritage
- 5km of interpretive walking trails maintained
- 342hrs maintaining the research center and care of maimed griffon vultures
- 161hrs of scientific monitoring of local griffon vulture populations and habits
- 120hrs spent assisting local farmers in the care of sheep and donkeys
- 80hrs advocating conservation and habitat preservation at Cres' annual Eco Fair
