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Expressive Sandplay: Seeking Dedicated Volunteer Facilitators

After four successful rounds, the “Expressive Sandwork” project is moving on to the next phase. It is based at the Asylum Social Services department of the Ludwigsburg District Office and expands the existing services for refugees experiencing mental health challenges. Dedicated volunteer facilitators are needed for this project.

A colorful diorama in a blue container depicts a miniature outdoor scene. It features small figurines enjoying a picnic under an umbrella, with playful elements like toy vehicles, shrubs, and yellow flowers, alongside a backdrop of crumbling structures. The setting evokes a lively community atmosphere.

An example of expressive sand art.

Project Objectives

Expressive sandplay is used to help children who have experienced trauma in their home country or while fleeing find a safe space to process these experiences. The goal is to activate their innate psychological healing abilities and strengthen their resilience. This nonverbal method is particularly well-suited for children who experienced trauma at an early age and have difficulty putting their feelings into words. By creatively constructing scenes in the sand, positive memories can be evoked, fostering a sense of control and self-efficacy.

Practical Implementation

Using a sandbox, various materials, and play figures, the children depict and process their inner experiences. About ten children aged 6 to 13 participate in each project cycle. A cycle consists of eleven to twelve weekly sessions.

Volunteer Facilitators Wanted

Volunteer facilitators play a central role in the project. Each facilitator is paired with one child for the entire duration of the project. Therefore, it is important to be available for all twelve sessions.

Before the project begins, the mentors receive comprehensive training from an experienced trainer. In addition, they receive ongoing support throughout the project and have access to supervision and intervision. Upon completion of the project, all volunteers receive a certificate.

Important Dates

The fifth round of the project begins on Monday, September 21, 2026. The two-day training for the volunteer mentors will take place on Friday, September 18, and Saturday, September 19, in Ludwigsburg. The weekly sessions—except during school breaks—will always take place on Mondays starting at 4:30 p.m. at the District Administration Office.

An information session for all interested volunteers will take place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., at the branch office located at Auf dem Wasen 9, 71640 Ludwigsburg, Room 212.

Registration and Information

Interested volunteer companions can contact the trauma coordinators:

Saba Kulmaҫ

Email: Saba.Kulmac[at]landkreis-ludwigsburg.de

Phone: 0151-61046038

and

Jessica Sinemli

Email: Jessica.Sinemli[at]landkreis-ludwigsburg.de
Phone: 0170-3864929

Further Information

For more information, interested parties can visit the official website for “Expressive Sandplay” at www.sandwork.org/de.

Dates

Information Session: July 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
Training: September 18 and 19, 2026
Project Start: September 21, 2026
Project End: December 14, 2026