In 2011, The Dirty Weekenders (Edinburgh University Conservation Volunteers) celebrates twenty years since its inception. Throughout this time the organisation has been entirely run and managed by student volunteers. As well as impressive practical conservation outcomes - 4000 person/hours of action per year - the organisation has provided a platform for informal learning in areas such as project, volunteer, organisational and environmental management.The current Dirty Weekender core team of 20 would like to mark our anniversary - which coincides with the European Year of Volunteering 2011 - as an opportunity to build on the extensive experience, expertise and success of the organisation by promoting the establishment of similar volunteer projects and organisations based in education institutions throughout Scotland.This project, taking place over a period of three months (including preparation and evaluation), will centre on a weekend mass-volunteering event in September and will aim to see 150 people volunteering together in one of Scotland's protected areas, attracting groups and representatives from across the country and beyond. The event - as accessible as possible - will make use of the Dirty Weekenders' rich experience and powerful history, by demonstrating and showcasing the way we have continued to develop, with the aim of inspiring and demonstrating the potential for others. It is envisaged that the event will act as a catalyst for a supportive network of similar youth and student volunteer initiatives.