Its that time of year again when Kindling connects with the struggle for international human rights by supporting Peace Brigades International: Guatemala. Twice a year Kindling makes a small contribution to this amazing organisation by hosting PBI Guatemala's training and selection process.
After spending a year in Guatemala working with PBI, Kindling's Helen and Matt have continued their involvement with the human rights organisation, and over a week in mid-February, Kindling will once again be providing logistical support to enable the training and selection of new volunteers from across the world.
The week is very intense (for both the trainers and the participants) and Kindling feels that it is essential that the logisics flow smoothly, allowing the group to focus on their work. It is our role to organise a suitable and affordable venue, provide the materials, make sure people get there, look after the training team during the preparation and evaluation process, provide informal support and information for the participants during the week, and this time look after the training co-ordinator's baby to enable her to run the training.
Previous training weeks have been in the North of England, but this time (because of childcare needs) it is being held at Redfield - an Intentional Community situated in North Buckinghamshire.
We are pretty excited about staying at Redfield (see picture) because it has many elements that Kindling would eventually like to incorporate, and the opportunity to hold a residential course here will hopefully give us further insight into running such a centre and give us time to chat to the Redfield community about their experiences and lessons they have learnt along the way.