Every summer, UWC Red Cross Nordic opens its campus for Ferie for alle (Holiday for All), a program run by UWC Connect and the Norwegian Red Cross. This year, seven of our RCN students spent part of their summer pitching in as volunteers at these camps. Throughout June and July, more than 450 people joined in. Families got a real break from their routines, tried out new activities together, and made memories they’ll hold onto for years. Our students worked alongside the Norwegian Red Cross volunteers, leading games, organizing activities, and just making sure everyone felt welcome.
Norwegian Red Cross and RCN volunteers
Photo: Danish Shams
Volunteering with the Red Cross gave our students a direct look at the work their name-partner does. Danish Shams, one of our seven volunteers, put it well: “Volunteering for the Red Cross reminded me how small acts of kindness can create special and memorable experiences for others.” For Danish, simple moments stood out—painting faces, playing games with the kids, and sharing laughter that made the summer feel special for everyone there. Tsering Lama also reflected on the friendships that grew over those weeks: “These past few weeks have been such a meaningful experience. Volunteering with the Red Cross was more than just helping others. It was about connecting with new people and creating lasting memories. Seeing the children happy brought me real joy and reminded me of my childhood back home and of my brothers. I’m proud to be part of the Red Cross volunteer team.”
The RCN summer volunteer team
Photo: Tsering Lama
These summer camps offer our students a real-world volunteering opportunity, the chance to learn side-by-side with others, and a place in the larger Red Cross community. Thanks to our seven student volunteers, UWC Connect, and every Norwegian Red Cross volunteer who came together to make this summer’s Ferie for alle possible.
Archery for families run by UWC Connect
Photo: Danish Shams