LocationsFrom Green Quests to Volunteering: Young People with Disabilities Help Preserve Belarus' Nature
December 3, 2024
Environmental volunteering is a powerful way to protect nature and foster connections between people from diverse backgrounds, including those with developmental disabilities. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Belarus has long worked on promoting volunteering in protected natural areas. In partnership with local nature reserves, UNDP particularly focuses on encouraging young people to take part in green projects and initiatives. The story of Aleksandr from the Rassony district is yet another proof that inclusivity, as their core value, enables individuals with disabilities to unlock their full potential.
Aleksandr is 24 years old and lives in the small town of Rossony in the Vitebsk region. Since childhood, he has been passionate about checkers, often defeating even his teacher. Recently, he took up chess, although sports are just one of his many interests. For several years in a row, Aleksandr has participated in an annual volunteering camp organized by the EcoRosy State Environmental Institution located at the Sinsha nature reserve.
For Aleksandr, the Reserve's initiatives became an opportunity to explore the world around him. "Nature is very important. It provides oxygen and essential resources like wood," he says. Alexander enjoys long walks in the forest and berry picking, but his favourite activity, by far, is green quests. Thanks to his curiosity, he easily tackles both the athletic challenges and tough questions that require ecological knowledge.
Participation in the eco-camp helps the young man develop essential skills, build self-confidence, and become part of a meaningful cause. Interactions with friends, collaboration on engaging tasks, and genuine support from his team have all made the nature reserve a place he eagerly anticipates returning to. "I can't wait for next year to come back here," shares Alexander.
Volunteering not only fosters social inclusion but also helps people with disabilities develop environmental awareness. Alexander is actively putting new knowledge into practice. He eagerly participates in local beach cleanups, helps sort waste, and plans to take part in tree planting initiatives in the future.
The surrounding lush forests and vast lakes have ignited new aspirations. Aleksandr now dreams of traveling and exploring more of the world. While his journeys are currently limited to his home district of Rossony, he hopes to go abroad one day. For Alexander, travel is a gateway to widening his horizons and building meaningful connections with others.
For young people, volunteering is more than just a way to enjoy nature; it’s an opportunity to feel connected to the environment and invested in a shared green future. While people with disabilities get an equal chance to feel part of a community, nature benefits from more defenders.
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