A team of our volunteers spent a week in Krivichi from the 26th- 30th of June. It was not just a camp but a survival school for the boys. Each day was memorable and important. The first day the group focused on meeting the boys and becoming acquainted with them all. The real school of survival began on the second day with a jam-packed schedule for everyone. The boys worked in teams to perform various tasks as instructed by the leaders and other volunteers. These exercises were challenging both physically and morally. The boys needed to raise their morale and learn group work skills. They learned to work as a team. They united and learned to help those that needed it, they learned to empathise with each other to help them get out of different situations. The third day was the most eagerly anticipated. Our sports day was full of games, the boys competed and supported each other. The highlight of the day was the arrival of the Krumkachy youth football team from Minsk. The coach and team spoke to the boys about hard work, team work, having trust in your team mates and supporting each other. The atmosphere was electric during the match between Krumkachy and Krivichi, the boys that weren’t playing made a huge poster and chanted and cheered on their team with pride. It was a very exciting game. All the details about the football match can be found here: https://www.footbik.by/2017/06/29/po-tu-storonu-zhizni/
The sports theme continued into the fourth day but unfortunately due to bad weather we needed to move indoors. There held various tables games, pool and table tennis were the most popular! Thankfully, the sun came out in the afternoon and we could play water games. Kapitoshka is a game similar to volleyball but with towels and water balloons – a favourite and very interesting to watch. The aim is to score but more importantly, to stay dry! The winning team were congratulated and received awards. In the end, everyone was awarded with a lovely evening, gathered together talking and enjoying the fire and of course some tasty shashlik. Who could ask for more?
The last day passed far too quickly. It was the day to remember those who were lost during the Second World War. There was a procession of the boys on the parade ground in the morning, a solemn raising of the flag and a competition of various military exercises (throwing, pull ups, running etc.) Later there was a concert where some of the boys performed and awards were presented. Everyone enjoyed the sweet table we prepared as a farewell!
The week was full of fruitful moments from beginning to end. It is difficult to put to words these memories, but can be safely found in the hearts of all the boys and the volunteers. We thank all the participants, volunteers, Sergey Kovalev, the football coach Vadim Ivanovich Sugako and his players.
More photos can be found at: https://cloud.mail.ru/public/Mmvn/B1qaw6KmQ