THE PONTIS Foundation and the Engage group of companies are preparing their annual volunteer event, Naša Bratislava (Our Bratislava) 2010, which will be held on June 18 and 19. This year’s gathering will differ from prior events as volunteers from the general public are invited to join volunteers from companies. Organisers have prepared more than 70 activities for as many as 1,500 volunteers. So far volunteers from 44 Bratislava-based companies, organisations and embassies have enrolled in the fourth year of the event.
During the two days volunteers will donate time and energy where it is most needed. They will upgrade kindergartens, crisis centres, schools, orphanages, senior houses and public gardening centres. Volunteers will be able to share and pass on their experience and knowledge to employees of non-governmental organisations.
The activities are divided into four groups: protection and support of health; helping the environment; social assistance and development; and education. Those interested may register for any of the activities at the website of the event www.NasaBratislava.sk by June 11.
In 2009, a record 1,200 volunteers joined the event, donating 5,100 hours of work in improving the function and look of the city as well as lending support to Bratislava-based NGOs.
“The fact that during the first day of registration more than 700 volunteers registered for individual activities shows the popularity of the event and willingness of people to help,” said Monika Smolová, the programme coordinator of Pontis Foundation.
