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Community Volunteer Day In Norway

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Tom Sarlo

Jun 23, 2023

Norway

Categories:

Volunteering, Norway, Commitment, Community

The Norwegian culture and society have a deep-rooted tradition of community volunteer days. The time-honored leading term for these events is called "Dugnad." Dugnad is a part of the Norwegian culture, its way of life.


Dugnad takes place before the start of a new season, such as spring clean up to get ready for summer, or autumn volunteering to get ready for winter. The manual labor in the Dugnad projects helps welcome the new season with bright and fresh surroundings. The event is planned and organized by neighborhoods, town officials, building managers, church organizations, retirement areas, and even marinas. The tradition helps bring people in the community together and be a part of a common interest in which they can see results.


The concept of Dugnad can be tricky to comprehend, especially for new arrivals either visiting or planning to set up residency. It is more than the needed labor to complete the volunteer activities. Part of the concept is the feeling of pride and being a community member. Socialization, team effort, and interaction help forge friendships and support systems.


During Dugnad, the community comes together with projects such as painting, repairing, gardening, and cleaning. One crucial ingredient is bringing people together and getting them involved. The simple idea of Dugnad and volunteering as a community is valuable in learning, engaging, and empowering the community. Dugnad will even offer suggestions for those who oppose manual labor. The organizers always need help barbecuing, serving food, refreshments, and desserts. The concept of Dugnad is inclusive of everyone.


When bringing a community together each town or city can have it's own special way. As in Norway, it is the tradition of Dugnad and using the theme of welcoming the next season with the collaborative effort of the residents working together. Towns may have their own clean up days. There are other avenues of getting involved with volunteering that can be all year round. Many school systems for example have tutoring programs that help students to succeed. Starting or joining a community garden is a great way to meeting local neighbors. The great thing about living in a populated town or city is that there is always something going on with many service opportunities. Being a part of a community usually starts with a simple idea that takes off into a tradition.


Coming together as a community is universal to humankind. Create a Dugnad in your hometown and celebrate the oneness of your neighbors.


Photo by RDNE Stock Project on Pexels.

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Catalog #:

0623.100.04.062323

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