The Trenčín 2026 Volunteer Programme kicked off the new school year in great style – with energy, creativity, and plenty of shared experiences. It turned out that volunteering in Trenčín is not only about helping, but above all about co-creation, inspiration, and joy from shared moments that give the city its soul.
Festival of Curiosity – a Rehearsal Before the Big Year
One of the main events was the Festival of Curiosity, which became something like a rehearsal for the upcoming Opening Ceremony in 2026. Our volunteers did an excellent job – they filled 82 out of 92 positions and together completed 408 hours of volunteer work.
During the festival, we tried out new roles – for example, acting as guides for international bands during the Garage project, or as content creators, capturing the atmosphere directly from the scene. Several Volunteer Leaders also had their first experience leading and coordinating larger groups of people – and they did a fantastic job. Their approach, sense of responsibility, and ability to support others showed that Trenčín has a strong volunteer base ready for major events. It was a valuable experience that proved volunteers can be not only helpers but also co-creators of experiences.
Splanekor – Music, Energy, and Community
Another major event was Splanekor, revived thanks to the energy of our volunteers. The place turned into a space full of music, meetings, and good vibes – proof that when enthusiasm, creativity, and the will to help come together, something truly special emerges.
Youth Dialogue and Cooperation with NIVaM
In autumn, we also joined the series “Dialogue on Youth” in cooperation with NIVaM – the National Institute of Education and Youth, which opened the topic of the Youth Report. The discussion provided space to talk about what young people in our region need and how we can understand them better.
GOODies Together – When Trenčín Tastes Like Goodness
The volunteer autumn wouldn’t be complete without GOODies Together (DOBROty spolu). This time, we gathered around the installation of the Neighbourhood Table, where everyone brought their own “taste of Trenčín.” Most brought cakes or homemade treats, but the main ingredient was good mood.
Together, we mixed our own recipes for Trenčín – not only culinary, but also symbolic ones: recipes for cooperation, friendship, and joy that make our city what it is.
GOODlab – A T-shirt as a Symbol of Belonging
Creativity continued in the GOODlab (DOBROlab) – a T-shirt-making workshop where participants, guided by our trained volunteers, created their own original pieces. This workshop was not only about creativity but also about pride – about the idea that each of us can be an ambassador of volunteering and part of Trenčín 2026.
New Campaign and Strong Stories of Volunteers
Together with our volunteers, we photographed a new campaign for the last volunteer recruitment before the grand finale of 2026. The goal of the campaign is to show the diversity, enthusiasm, and humanity that form the heart of our programme.
Each portrait tells a different story, but they all share one thing – the desire to lend a hand and be part of something bigger.
GOODmeet – When People Create the Atmosphere
At the next GOODmeet (DOBROstretko), we met for a discussion titled “Volunteering and Culture – When People Create the Atmosphere.”
We talked about how the worlds of volunteering and art intertwine – and everyone agreed that volunteers are the ones who give cultural events their soul and atmosphere that visitors remember.
Let’s Read Together – Stories That Connect Generations
As part of the Let’s Read Together programme, we continued with regular readings with senior men and women – this time featuring an author reading from the book “How to Live Fully After Sixty.”
Words, laughter, and memories showed that volunteering connects generations and brings joy to both sides.
Heart in Hand – Thanking People with Big Hearts
The end of the month was marked by cooperation with the Trenčín Volunteer Centre, with which we joined the preparations for the Heart in Hand Award of the Trenčín Region 2025.
This event annually honours exceptional people who give their time and energy to others.
The campaign is now in full swing, and nominations can be submitted until 20 October 2025.
If you know someone who deserves a thank you, now is the perfect time to nominate them. 💙
The start of the school year once again confirmed that volunteering in Trenčín has many forms – from creative workshops and community dinners to discussions, education, and recognition.
And most importantly – that every volunteer, with their energy, time, and willingness, contributes to making the year 2026 truly exceptional.
Would you like to know more about volunteering? Click HERE.
