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02 March 2011

After 35 years of sectarian violence between Roman Catholic Nationalists and Protestant Unionists, the poverty faced in Northern Ireland is not just physical, but spiritual too.

In response to this great need for reconciliation, the Northern Ireland Global Village program is unique in its dual focus on both house-building and peace-making. Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland has developed a unique experience which fosters peace through the practical work of regenerating local communities impacted by decades of violence. In addition to working on-site on Habitat projects in Belfast, participants will attend group learning sessions facilitated by HFHNI’s in-house trainers, who will share innovative methodologies of peace-building applicable to many other global issues.

Country Profile

About Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a beautiful, historic destination made up of hill country and fertile lowlands. But 35 years of sectarian violence has left the country with a divided and segregated society.

About Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland
Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland was founded in 1994. For every house built locally, HFHNI funds and builds 10 houses internationally. In addition to offering affordable housing solutions to at-risk families, its current work in Ireland is focused on regenerating and reconciling communities that have suffered from nearly four decades of conflict. Over the last 15 years, Habitat projects have brought together more than 15,000 volunteers from both Catholic and Protestant backgrounds to build alongside families in need. These projects have helped regenerate communities and restore relationships by building more than 85 houses in West and North Belfast, Downpatrick and Omagh. New projects are being developed in other areas impacted by deprivation and the legacy of conflict.

On a Global Village trip to Northern Ireland, volunteers will build hope by investing in the lives of others, transforming families and communities. Perspectives will be broadened, skills enhanced and lives changed. For more information, visit www.habitatni.co.uk

Standard itinerary

• Day 1: Depart from home
• Day 2: Arrive in Belfast; rest and free time; orientation with Habitat Northern Ireland
• Day 3: Peace-building group sessions and welcome dinner.
• Days 4-7: After breakfast at hostel, at work site from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., then dinner and team activities in the evening
• Day 8: Breakfast at hostel; work on site from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; farewell lunch on site; peace-building group sessions, cultural activities
• Day 9: Peace-building group sessions; church; cultural activities; free time; final team dinner
• Day 10: Depart for home

Working alongside highly skilled construction supervisors, Global Village volunteers participate in all aspects of construction (excluding brickwork, plumbing and electrics).

The peace-building program was been designed to utilize the experience gained working in a post-conflict environment. It incorporates guest speakers, community visits and group-work sessions facilitated by experienced HFHNI trainers. Workshops include:

• Legacy of Conflict: A history of the troubles in Northern Ireland
• The Nature & Dynamics of Conflict
• A Legacy of Peace: Community Relations Movements, Key People, Churches and Places
• Practical Peace Building: Mediation Techniques and Grassroots Mobilization

Accommodations
Most teams will stay at the Farset International Hostel, with shared rooms and baths. Breakfast will be taken at the hostel, with lunch and drinks typically served at the work site. Dinner will be eaten at local restaurants.

Trip cost
US$2,200.

For more details about what is included in the cost of the trip, visit Global Village trip cost.

Team leader
For more than 15 years, Barbara Thomas has been a volunteer, board member and Executive Director of Habitat affiliates in California and South Carolina. Barbara has led Global Village trips to Mexico, Romania, Costa Rica and Poland, and always with some returning team members. Barbara currently lives in Bratislava and serves as Project Manager for the first Housing Forum Europe & Central Asia. Please contact her at acivilconversation@gmail.com.