is an association for contemporary art based in Graz and was founded in 1999. Most of the association's activities take place in Graz but it participates in, organises or co-organises projects in Styria, Austria and many other European countries. There is also a particularly strong linkage to the Southeast European area. Contemporary visual art is always the starting point for their programmes, with an emphasis on art production that deals with social, political, economical and ecological issues of our time. A strong focus is put on public spaces as a space where can make art happen and actively encourages people to shape their surroundings. has continuously been hosting EVS volunteers since 2008, always for a period of 12 months. It has been an enriching experience for the whole team to work with new people from foreign countries. They have supported not only through their assistance, but also by bringing in new ideas and impulses to our activities. From September 2015 onwards will host a volunteer from Ukrainia and a volunteer from Hungary for 12 months. "Schule im Pfeifferhof – Knallerbse“ is a non-profit alternative school initiated by parents for their children. The school works according to reform-pedagogical principles (Montessori, Piaget), that means that the work is oriented at the needs and wishes of children. The learning methods are based on “practical” work and on projects. One of the principles of the school is “learning by doing”. The school tries hard to prepare a surrounding for the children which enables them to make their own experiences, where they can do both, acquire cultural techniques and develop social competences. Usually the children stay for nine years until they have finished their compulsory education. The school has hosted EVS volunteers from different countries for more than 6 years. The exchange between the EVS volunteer, the pupils and the teachers is considered very useful for the school. From October 2015 onwards Knallerbse-Schule im Pfeifferhof will host a volunteer from Italy and a volunteer from Spain for 9 months.