“I am civil protection too”: how school camps are shaping the citizens of tomorrow
This summer of 2026, adventure meets training, friendship, and teamwork
The “I am civil protection too” school camps, a project by the Civil Protection Department, return this summer in partnership with Regions and local and national volunteer organizations. Now in their 16th year, school camps engage thousands of young people across Italy with a shared goal: to show the younger generation how simple, everyday actions can help protect the environment, local territory, and the wider community.
From June to September 2026, more than 350 summer camps across Italy will welcome over 9,000 young people aged 10 to 16.
Participants have the opportunity to take a closer look at the world of civil protection, interacting daily with people working first-hand in the field: firefighters, police officers, 118 operators, the Italian Red Cross, volunteers, and representatives of local and regional institutions.
It is not just about lessons, but also about hands-on experiences, simulations, outdoor activities, and opportunities to share ideas—all of which help shape young participants into more informed and responsible citizens.
Over the years, “I am civil protection too” has become much more than a summer camp. The project has trained over 100,000 young people, promoting a culture of prevention, awareness of natural hazards, and best practices for living safely and sustainably within their local communities.
For many young people, this experience has become a true passion, having a profound impact on their personal growth. Through direct interaction with volunteers and the opportunity to experience firsthand the values of solidarity and collaboration, many have chosen to continue on this path by becoming volunteers themselves.
This choice not only contributes to the protection and safety of the community but also represents an important opportunity for personal growth, fostering the development of civic responsibility, accountability, teamwork skills, and an awareness of one’s role within the community.
This makes these school camps a valuable tool for fostering active and responsible citizenship, helping to prepare young people to devote their energy and skills to serving their communities.
School camps blend training and fun through engaging activities, group games, and educational experiences designed to introduce young people to the world of civil protection.
After all, keeping a community safe also depends on the awareness and involvement of its youngest members.
The project’s goals include:
- promoting respect for the environment and forest heritage;
- fostering a culture of prevention and good civil protection practices;
- raising awareness of how the National Service operates;
- increasing awareness of the importance of municipal emergency plans;
- promoting dialogue between younger generations and institutions, with a particular focus on local authorities.
If you want to join the “I am civil protection too” school camps, follow these steps:
- Find a camp available in your area by visiting the regional websites (here is a list of the already active pages).
- Get in touch directly with the organization running the camp you’re interested in: you cannot register through a single portal, but must apply through the individual organizers.
- Check the age requirements: generally, camps are aimed at young people aged 10 to 16, divided into age groups.
- Fill out the application form.