project

The Othona Community in Bradwell-on-Sea was founded in 1946. It is a residential centre for people of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds to seek a common understanding in the cause of peace. Othona has welcomed YAP volunteers since the early 1970's. Othona is a multi-faith non-dogmatic Christian Community founded next to one of the oldest churches in the UK (654AD). It fully involves non-Christians. It is an experimental community where work, play, drama, art and study are combined. Volunteers will be fully integrated in the life of the community.

During the summer we will be undertaking the refurbishment of our reed bed system alongside this there is ongoing work to the grounds and gardens, ditches to be cleared and fencing to be repaired and painted.

In 2010 there will be a single discussion theme to which all VAP activists are invited to participate and share. The subject is the United Nations Millennium Development Goals which were signed up to by almost every state on Earth in the year 2000.
There are eight areas targeted for action by the world community and these are the eradication of poverty and hunger, the achievement of universal primary education, equality for women, reduced child mortality, improved maternal health, effective treatment of diseases, environmental sustainability and finally, the development of a global partnership for development. These targets were to be achieved in 15 years.
With five years to go what progress has been achieved? Is there anything we can do to promote these positive ambitions?
All incoming volunteers to VAP's British projects will be asked to find out about what each of their countries is doing to fulfill the promises in the goals and this information will be shared with the others and we hope it can lead to some wider discussion and activities.

In big tents close to the community centre. Food will be healthy and home made. Vegetarian diets can be catered for.

The Othona Community is situated on the east coast of Essex, next to a nature reserve. It is 5 Km from the nearest village.

London and Stansted airports and Southminster train station are the closest for arrivals and departures.

During the volunteer’s time there, there will be various themed study weeks including, Circle Dancing, Thorny Theology, a Taste of Africa and Creation – details of these events can be viewed on our website www.bos.othona.org Outside their work duties volunteers are encouraged to join in these activities.