Who is responsible for the following responses, their role in the group, and the duration of their volunteering?

Khaled Nuwailati Secretary of the association and field operations leader since its establishment in 1988.

When did you start your activities as a volunteer group, and how many members are there now?

The idea began in 1988, and the formal establishment was in 2008. The group currently has 150 registered members.

What motivated the founding of this group?

Exploring and documenting Syria’s wilderness and working to protect it.

About the founders:
In the 1980s, the activities of the Syrian Scouts Association were suspended. One year later, in July 1988, a scout team of five former members of the association organized their first structured scouting activity outside the framework of the Syrian Scouts in Kafroun, Tartous Province, for one week. This team maintained camp activities until November 1993, when they organized the first hike from Marmarita to Kafroun.

Their activities followed traditional scouting principles, including training, practices, and ethics. The group was supervised by the first wood badge leader in Syria, Mohammad Walid Mahmoud Nuwailati (may he rest in peace).

Despite lacking formal licensing, the team continued to organize hikes and camps, gradually expanding to nearly 50 participants. Many were former Syrian Scouts members, while others were new to wilderness activities. They eventually named their group "Troop 11," after their previous scout troop.

Over time, their focus shifted to rediscovering remote, often obscure areas and documenting them visually and audibly. The team's findings proved valuable and attracted interest from tourism and environmental exploration sectors.

Given the group's success, the founders decided in 2005 to establish a formal national association. After two years of collaboration with government authorities, they received official licensing as the Syrian Exploration and Documentation Association on January 7, 2008, under license No. 133 from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor.

What activities and services do you offer?

Training camps and hiking trips of various types in the Syrian wilderness

Workshops on exploration, wilderness documentation, and medical and topographical support

Which provinces do you operate in?

All provinces of Syria.

What is your slogan or philosophy for volunteer work? What areas do you primarily focus on?

A motivational statement with both psychological and national impact, aimed at encouraging youth to affirm and strengthen their Syrian identity. This includes pursuing knowledge about Syria's history, culture, economy, geography, and natural environment.

The goal is to deepen attachment to the land and build a sense of responsibility for protecting and preserving it. Volunteers are motivated to represent their country with pride, knowledge, and confidence.

How can individuals join your group and participate in your activities?

Anyone interested in exploration and learning, with the physical ability to participate, can join by following the association's announcements and attending activities in person at their headquarters in Damascus, Maysat Square, Moussalli Building. Contact: +963992884884.

Do you offer training or guidance programs for new volunteers?

Yes, guidance workshops or meetings are held a few days before activities. Daily updates on requirements and instructions are shared with volunteer groups.

There is a comprehensive training plan for core volunteers on wilderness navigation, team organization, and handling emergencies.

What requirements or skills do you seek in volunteers?

Passion for the homeland and a desire to learn, discover, and document new findings. Physical fitness for adventures. Skills in photography, video editing, or administrative organization are a plus but can be learned through the association.

Do you collaborate with other entities or organizations? If yes, what is the nature of these partnerships?

No

Do you receive any support from governmental or non-governmental organizations (local or international)? If yes, what kind of support?

No external support.

What are the main challenges you face as a volunteer team?

Economic and financial challenges, especially due to rising costs, which have limited the number of projects and increased participant expenses.

How can the public support you? Are there specific ways to donate or contribute?

Yes, donations can be coordinated through direct communication. Contributions can be financial or in-kind, such as equipment from individuals or supporting entities.

What are your future plans for expanding or developing your activities?

Continuing regular programs focused on rediscovering and documenting unexplored wilderness areas.