Become a volunteer

“There is no doubt that music connects people and societies. I cherish the similarities and the differences in both societies and have always believed that we can further develop our shared culture by making music together. This project was the perfect way to do that.”

“Since the day we met, I knew that I found a friendship that I didn’t have with any of my friends until now. Then, we found ourselves in the “Time is Ripe” project and the “United by Sound” together. The vocal and video recording process was extremely enjoyable. Even though each of us recorded their parts separately, I still felt part of a team. The energy of people who work for this cause is unbelievable. The song really stands up for love and friendship between Cypriots, and without any prejudices. I hope for better days.”

"My internship experience at the Home for Cooperation has not only been a work experience; it has been a process of discovering the hope for peace that the societies of Cyprus grow together. I have observed how the people from different backgrounds and believes can work unitedly in harmony for the same purpose; for peace. Now, the Home for Cooperation is a home for me where I feel that “I am not the only one”."

"I really enjoy the supportive, community environment created by the Home for Cooperation team. While interning for the Buffer Fringe Performing Arts Festival, it is truly inspiring to read about all the participating artists and how they have thrived working on their performances/installations, despite the pandemic. As I am a recent Drama graduate, it is especially important for me to expand my performative knowledge and creativity by learning about the wide range of innovative festival ideas concocted by each artist!"

"I collaborated with Home for Cooperation as an intern under strange circumstances, due to Covid-19. Even though the conditions were difficult, they confronted the pandemic with professionalism and did not interrupt their services and effort to unite people. I was touched by the friendly and cosy atmosphere which reigned among the staff. Home for Cooperation is located in the heart of Nicosia old town, and therefore represents the core of hope for a better future."

"I am grateful for all the beautiful persons I have met at the Home for Cooperation in these few months and happy to have been part of it, even for a brief period of time. An inspiring environment where people are engaged in doing things that matter. Cyprus, it seems, is still breathing after all."

"During my internship experience, I had the opportunity to learn more about our island's problem and how we can act upon solving it. I got to meet lots of interesting people and created meaningful relationships that will last longer than this 3-month period."

"My internship at the Home for Cooperation it was a great experience! The main point for me, it was that there are factors in “cypriot problem” whose voice can not be listened. And if we could listen to these (common) people we could co-exist peacefully, even after all these years without walls."

 "My internship at the H4C was eye-opening and educational. I was a front-desk intern, I learned how to represent an organization in the best way possible through the position I worked in. This position taught me how to communicate with people, employers, and visitors, in a professional way. Also, it was wonderful to work in a place that promotes peace, understanding, and tolerance in Cyprus. The Home for Cooperation is an example of peace and tolerance which helps you to understand that the solution to any conflict in this world, whether it is political or personal, is peace, tolerance, and acceptance. In my point of view, the Home for Cooperation should be an example for each and every country that faces conflict with another."

 "When you think of a buffer zone, what comes to mind? Hostility, division, a wariness of ‘the other’? At the Home for Cooperation in Nicosia, Cyprus the complete opposite is found. A real home where people feel secure and free. Having researched the Cyprus dispute during my studies, it was an honour to be part of this peace initiative which works at a grassroots level. One of the many memories I shall cherish was the salsa dancing evening. Twirling under the stars in the buffer zone brought members from across the divide, creating meaningful memories allowing people to express themselves, reunite and reconcile. The ambiance at the home is warm, welcoming and professional as it makes the first steps towards lasting peace."

"The Buffer Zone growing up was an unapproachable space, you couldn't grasp what it really was. You could not enter it was a prohibited zone. Working for a few months within that space changes your idea of its possibilities. The Home for Cooperation is the reason, the people who work there reinvent this divide daily into a space of contact and creativity. It was very exciting being part of that team for a while and working specifically for the Buffer Fringe Performing Arts Festival, I feel that I gained valuable life experience and knowledge and I am very grateful for the opportunity and the people I met."

 "It’s been an interesting insight working with home for cooperation and EDIC. Home as the name goes is truly a replica of what it’s called. Great people all round, a favorable working and leaning abode. When one’s dedication and efforts are recognized by all and inspired to do more, it is truly a home. When you envision the life you want and the people in and around it makes it easier for you through its process. All projects worked on have indeed been educative and captivating. This has been an experience and a time worth it. I am grateful to all."  

"Working as a trainee at the H4C was an amazing experience. The Home actually feels like a real home - in the middle of the Buffer Zone. The atmoshpere is so friendly that it becomes really easy to genuinely feel part of the H4C family. The team members are awsome, inspiring and dedicated people. As a trainee, my missions were so diverse and interesting that I was able to develop new skills I didn't imagine I would learn before coming. It was also good to be able to participate in current projects, suggest new ideas, be useful to the team and the Home's great cause."