Free access for everyone
Every December, right in the heart of subtropical Katerini, we set up a large-scaled yet fully sustainable Christmas Village with a twist: absolutely no money needed.
As entry to the premise and for free access to all the offerings, an adult may contribute some 2kg of groceries (pasta, rice, canned food) whereas children leave a book. Following the principle of circular economy, at the end the collected books are donated to the libraries of the regional nursery schools, while the foodstuff stocks up the warehouse of our “Social Goods Distribution”, supporting people in dire need. At the same time, a uniquely inclusive social space is created, where people with financial or cultural hurdles have easy access to. The participants of the Volunteering Team will be involved in every aspect of preparation and execution of the event (spreading hay, tending to the fire, caring for the visitors, social media campaigns) as well as showcasing their own traditions in a creative and inclusive way.
Tasks:
- Active participation in preparation of Solidarity Christmas Village and tasks during the event (spreading hay, taking care of the fire, giving out foodstuff, activities with children, reception and sorting of donations, etc.)
- Active participation in tasks for promotion, communication and documentation
- Planning, preparation and execution of creative activities presenting participants´ own cultural traditions
Starting from 2022, thanks to the financial support of the European Solidarity Corps we were able to open up our village to Europe and invite volunteers from 10 different countries to stay, work and live with us.
