Bridges Over Culture

Bridges over Culture is a European Volunteering Service project we received funds to make it possible for a Polish volunteer, Justyna, to stay in Russia for one year. In the case of volunteering in one of the so-called Erasmus Plus partner countries, only a Polish organization has the option of applying for funds to realize such a project, and being its coordinator at the same time. However, the volunteer’s hosting organization acts as the project’s partner. Bridges over Culture is a project that initiated our fruitful cooperation with the Russian organization Perspectivy from St. Petersburg. Perspectivy works for people with disabilities and children in foster care. Perspectivy has been hosting volunteers from all over Europe for many years.

During her stay in St. Petersburg, from October 2018 to September 2019, Justyna helped implement the School for All activity. It involves working with families to prevent children from living in the orphanage. Justyna was involved both in helping at the daycare centre for children between 6 and 16 years old, as well as in running the so-called Employment centre for minors and adults with developmental disabilities.

Justyna spent time with children, developing self-acceptance and respect in them, encouraging them to be independent, gain new experiences, and move while taking care of their safety. Justyna played with the children, giving them a chance to fulfil their natural need to play. She also cooperated with the teacher, having her share in the development of the children. Justyna also had space to implement her own ideas. Here you can read about Justyna’s experience in Russia.