Service is one of the most rewarding aspects of CAS, giving us the chance to give back to our community and help others. What better way to make CAS even more enjoyable than by combining it with something we’re passionate about, such as a sport we train or enjoy?

Fortunately, we have access to various opportunities for volunteering through Volonterski Centar Zagreb (VCZ). This platform is an important source for community service in Zagreb, offering projects that align with our personal interests, including sports. Here are three exciting activities available through VCZ that merge sports and volunteering while fulfilling CAS requirements:

1. Assistance in the Work of the Nada Association – Vrbovec

The Nada Association is dedicated to therapeutic and recreational horseback riding. Therapeutic riding includes using horses and horse-oriented activities to achieve various therapeutic goals, including cognitive, physical, emotional, social, and educational development. It’s designed for people with special needs. It can help us build self-confidence, motivation, and emotional intelligence while interacting with various people. It also allows us to foster social skills and develop a sense of belonging to a group. It provides physical and cognitive benefits for participants of all ages.

As a volunteer, you’ll get to work with children and adults with developmental disabilities, assist in therapeutic riding sessions, and learn about horseback riding and related therapeutic practices. This project also offers the chance to enjoy time in a beautiful natural environment while making a significant impact on others’ lives.

2. Leaders of Sports Workshops

If you have a passion for sports and enjoy helping others, this is the perfect opportunity for you. The Association for the Promotion of Inclusion organizes sports workshops for adults with intellectual disabilities. These workshops take place at the Work Center of the Association on Bleiweisova 15, with groups of around 10 older participants.

As a volunteer, you’ll:

• Lead and assist in various sports activities.
• Help participants improve their motor skills and enjoy physical exercise.
• Create a positive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone involved.

This activity is ideal for students who are extroverted and open to working with people with intellectual disabilities. It’s also an excellent opportunity to develop empathy, patience, and leadership skills while promoting the joy of sports.

3. Volunteering at Local Sporting Events

Another exciting opportunity is volunteering at sporting events, such as marathons, triathlons, or cycling races. Volonterski Centar Zagreb (VCZ) frequently posts calls for volunteers to support events in Zagreb. Your responsibilities might include:

• Assisting with registration and logistics.
• Distributing water or first-aid supplies to participants.
• Cheering on athletes and creating a lively atmosphere.

This type of volunteering is perfect for students who thrive in dynamic environments and love live events. It’s a great way to work on teamwork and problem-solving skills while contributing to the success of local sports events.

To explore these opportunities, visit the VCZ website at www.vcz.hr. The site provides a detailed list of current projects, application instructions, and contact information for each initiative. You can filter opportunities based on your interests, schedule, and preferred type of service. Whether you’re passionate about sports, education, or helping the environment, VCZ has something for you.

CAS is more than a requirement, it’s an opportunity to grow as individuals and make a difference in the world. By following resources like Volonterski Centar Zagreb, we can find service activities that align with our passions and values. Whether we’re helping children with therapeutic riding, leading sports workshops, or supporting athletes at local events, we’re not only contributing to our community but also developing skills. This way we can make CAS both fulfilling and fun.