Volunteer with Us
The 'Long Distance Hiking Trail Volunteer Movement' unites hiking enthusiasts, creating an active, friendly, and open community. Members are connected by a sense of belonging to the Baltic Coastal Hiking Trail, the Forest Trail, and other long-distance trails in the Baltics. We are dedicated to maintaining these trails and inspiring others to enjoy hiking as a lifestyle!
Volunteering is done in our free time and without compensation. Anyone who supports the hiking movement can join by filling out an application form.
After filling out the application form, the coordinator of the volunteer movement, Aija Neilande, will contact you.
What Volunteers Do:
Volunteers work on trails and sections of their choice. Volunteer work can take place during organized hikes, trash collection events, everyday activities in their own neighborhoods or favorite trail section.
Their tasks include:
Trail Maintenance:
- Monitoring routes and reporting updates or changes.
- Refreshing trail markings.
- Reporting infrastructure damages.
- Collecting trash or reporting it via app "Vides SOS".
Raising Trail Awareness:
- Sharing hiking experiences on social media.
- Discussing trails and experiences in social groups.
- Creating and sharing photos and videos about the trails.
Trail Adventures:
- Organizing and leading hikes.
Trail Development:
- Involving local service providers such as accommodations, caterers, transport, local guides and more.
- Collaborating with other volunteers, organizations and groups of hiking enthusiasts.
How the Volunteer Movement Works:
Activities are overseen by a coordination center that plans tasks and shares updates. Volunteers report their work and ideas to the center and communicate via WhatsApp.
Coordinator:
Aija Neilande
Phone: +371 26147139
Email: aija.neilande@kurzemesregions.lv
Current Updates for the Gartaku Volunteer Movement:
- Regular communication is maintained via WhatsApp groups for the Forest Trail and Baltic Coastal Hiking Trail volunteers, with invitations sent after the submission of their applications.
- A volunteer newsletter is being developed to share updates, stories, and important news.
- Plans include creating badges for easy recognition of volunteers and forming a Hikers' Club as the movement's formal center.
- The movement is also compiling a record of volunteers' contributions.
