Forest Protection, Community Action & European Solidarity
Powered by the Service National de la Jeunesse in Luxembourg and the European Solidarity Corps
What is it about?
The "Solidarity Summer Camp 2026" project builds upon the annual initiative known as "Giving a Day of My Summer to the Forest," which has been operating since 2007.
This transformative project, running from June to September each year, focuses on safeguarding the forests surrounding the majestic Mount Olympus. It operates through two daily observation shifts, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a crucial partnership between local fire brigades and community volunteers.
At its heart is the strategic use of an observation tower, equipped with binoculars and clear instructions, where dedicated teams monitor the forests. The project enjoys wholehearted support from local fire brigades, recognizing its vital role in combatting the recurring threat of forest fires in the region.
Over the years, "Giving a Day of My Summer to the Forest" has had a deep impact on the local society. It has significantly reduced the risk of forest fires and heightened awareness of environmental protection issues by mobilizing and sensitizing people.
Now, the “Solidarity Summer Camp 2026” project once again invites young people from all over Europe to become active members of the community.
This year, the Solidarity Summer Camp will be organized in two separate teams of 20 participants each. The first team will take part from 16 June to 2 August, while the second team will run from 4 August to 17 September. Throughout the programme, participants will be involved in a variety of daily tasks, including on-site fire observation at the watchtower, participation in solidarity and social projects such as the Social Pharmacy and Social Goods Distribution organised by KSK, facility maintenance, and the support of community events. The experience offers young people a meaningful opportunity to contribute to environmental protection while strengthening teamwork, responsibility, and community spirit.
Where in Europe am I?
Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini is located between Greece’s highest mountain and the coastline of the Thermaic Gulf, in Katerini, Pieria. Within a single day, one can hike through the forests of Mount Olympus and later enjoy the nearby beaches of Plaka and Litochoro, ranging from sandy shores to quieter stone and gravel beaches. The blue-flag beaches of Paralia are also easily accessible by bus or bicycle from the project venue.
For those interested in culture and history, the Vergina Museum near Veria preserves the legacy of Philip II and Alexander the Great, while the monasteries of Meteora offer a unique blend of spirituality and architecture. The Dion Archaeological Park provides insight into the ancient worship of Zeus. Nearby Litochoro village serves as the gateway to Mount Olympus, and Thessaloniki offers a vibrant urban atmosphere with rich cultural life, museums, and nightlife.
Who is organizing it?
Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini (KSK) is an independent organization with roots dating back to 2007 when a citizens' initiative formed to address societal challenges. Since then, our volunteering group consistently initiated and executed projects and volunteering activities to raise awareness and support individuals in need, irrespective of their cultural, ethnic, or religious background.
After the economic hardships during the financial crisis prompted a need for more warehouse space, in 2011 we occupied and restored one of the few abandoned historical venues in our city: the former tobacco research institute Kapnikos Stathmos.
In 2019, recognizing the importance of formalizing our efforts, we established a non-profit organization and named it after the historical venue Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini (KSK). This organization has since been the ground and roof of various initiatives focused on environmental protection, social solidarity, and unconditional human rights, guided by core values such as social responsibility, cooperation, inclusion, and respect for individual rights and diversity.
KSK manages around 20 diverse projects, including this project’s core activity and our very first action named "Giving a day of my summer to the forest", which aims to protect forests from wildfires with active involvement from local communities. Despite challenges, KSK operates independently of municipal or government support and continues to foster civil engagement, solidarity, volunteering, social inclusion, and environmental protection.
Through our work, we bridge different societal groups and cultural entities, striving to enhance societal cohesion and address pressing challenges such as climate change and economic disparities. Our commitment to shared European values of equality and human rights contributes to peace and solidarity within the European Union.
Who can participate?
If you enjoy teamwork, aren't afraid of hard work, and eager to make a meaningful contribution, this opportunity is perfect for you! We are seeking motivated individuals who thrive in a team setting and appreciate being part of a diverse community.
While spare time is important for building connections with fellow volunteers and the local community, working hours are dedicated to focused, productive tasks. This project involves hands-on activities outside, so you’ll need to be ready for physical work that might leave you a bit dirty or tired, but ultimately very fulfilled.
Respecting rules and boundaries of peers and of the host is key to ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone involved!
What are the exact dates of the activity?
This year’s Solidarity Summer Camp 2026 will be implemented in two separate teams:
The first team will run from 23 June to 27 July, with 22 June and 28 July designated as travel days (additional travel days may apply in the case of green travel).
The second team will take place from 4 August to 10 September, with 3 August and 11 September designated as travel days
Additional travel days apply in the case of green travel (Bus, train etc.).
How is it organized / What do I do?
Since its inception in 2007, the project has been rooted in the active engagement and mobilization of civil society, both locally and across Europe, fostering shared responsibility for our environment.
This year, the team will be organized into five groups of four members, rotating daily through three distinct roles.
From Monday to Friday, each day one group assumes the role of "observers", spending the whole day at the watchtower at Plaka Beach. Their main responsibility is to carry out the observation shift and maintenance tasks in and around the tower.
The remaining four groups operate back at Kapnikos, with three taking on the role of "workers" and one serving as "stewards".
The "workers" are involved in all daily operations of Kapnikos Stathmos. They contribute to the Social Pharmacy and Social Goods Distribution, handling tasks such as warehouse maintenance, managing excess stock, and conducting inventory checks. Additionally, they contribute to the Ecological Garden, performing various gardening works, as well as assisting with all other chores and tasks of the day.
Meanwhile, the "stewards" focus on maintaining the community and facilities. Assisting our staff, they will ensure the facility management. This includes cleaning of all shared spaces, mowing the lawn, minor repairs, setting and clearing tables for meals, washing dishes and taking out the trash.
This structured rotation ensures that all groups contribute equally to the smooth operation of Kapnikos.
The ultimate goal is full immersion into the Kapnikos community, where the volunteers are not guests or clients but full members of the solidarity team. This means, it goes without saying, that in the event a serious forest fire or any other urgent crisis happens on a weekend, we nevertheless expect the support and active participation of everybody present.
When and how many hours do I work?
The working hours depend on which role one’s group is responsible for this day:
The “observers” have the most working hours, while arguably the most pleasant ones, as they spend the whole day at the watchtower on the beach. They leave Kapnikos Stathmos around 09:30 and return around 21:30.
The other four groups follow the regular schedule of KSK:
- 08:30-09:00 Breakfast
- 09:00-11:15 Working phase
- 11:15-11:30 Break
- 11:30-13:30 Working phase
- 13:30-14:30 Lunch
- 14:30-16:30 Working phase
- 16:30-21:00 Free
- 21:00-22:00 Dinner
The working week runs from Monday to Friday with Saturday and Sunday being task-free. Additional to the weekend, everyone has an extra two vacation days that can be chosen accordingly.
What’s the weather like?
Between July and September, Katerini, Greece usually has hot and sunny weather with temperatures averaging around 30-35 degrees Celsius – a little less towards September. Every day clear skies and minimal rainfall are to be expected, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful Mediterranean climate while also posing the highest risk for forest fires.
Will I need special clothes?
There is no need for special clothes, we encourage everyone to wear what he or she feels comfortable in. As it will be summer, and many tasks involve outdoor activities, participants should wear lightweight and practical clothing that can withstand getting dirty.
Nevertheless, we strongly suggest to include swimsuits for the beach and stable shoes for hiking in the mountains.
Do I have to take something like bed sheets or my laptop from home?
Everything related to accommodation will be provided by us, meaning that neither towels nor bedsheets have to be taken from home. The same goes for shampoos, soap and other basic goods.
Participants may choose to bring their laptop for their spare time or to use it for some of the tasks, but it is totally optional.
Can I wash my clothes there?
Every volunteer will have free access to our washing machine on site and plenty of space to dry the clothes. The cleaning agents will also be provided by us for free.
Where will I sleep?
In the spirit of a typical summer camp, during their stay all volunteers will be accommodated in a shared dormitory. This air-conditioned dormitory is set up in a spacious and cozy hall known as "Paramythoupoli," providing a comfortable atmosphere in a historic building. In this communal setting, there are 10 bunk beds, allowing for all 20 volunteers to share the sleeping space together. It's worth noting that there is no separation between men and women in this dormitory.
Given the pleasant summer weather, volunteers will likely spend most of their time outdoors, using the dormitory primarily for storing their belongings and getting a good night's sleep. This arrangement encourages interaction among participants and contributes to the sense of togetherness and shared experiences during their stay.
How about sanitary facilities?
The main sanitary facilities with hot water are situated right next to the accommodation area and are used for daily needs. Built in 2019 and expanded in 2022 with four individual shower rooms, the facilities provide comfort and privacy. They include separate bathrooms for men and women, each with multiple toilets, as well as a total of five shower rooms, ensuring sufficient availability even during busier times.
What will I eat and who is preparing the food?
From Monday to Sunday, participants will enjoy a variety of delicious meals during their stay prepared by the organization.
To start each morning, breakfast is served buffet-style, offering a range of options such as coffee, cereal, bread, fruits, and more.
For lunch and dinner, a rotating meal plan featuring typical local cuisine is followed, including fish, meat and salads. These meals are prepared on-site by Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini, ensuring their quality and taste while also giving flexibility to adapt to any special dietary needs if necessary.
Is there any climatization where I sleep?
The "Paramythoupoli," where participants will be accommodated, is a spacious hall in the heart of the facility. Thanks to its recently upgraded insulation, the space naturally maintains a cooler temperature, providing a welcome escape from the heat outside.
Additionally, the hall is equipped with a powerful air conditioner, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable stay throughout the summer.
What happens if I get sick or injured?
If a participant falls ill or any other emergency arises, support is always available. KSK staff, the coordinator and the mentor are always accessible and nearby to contact.
Furthermore, our organization has a network of trained and experienced healthcare professionals on standby to provide assistance when necessary.
In case of illness, we also have additional rooms in apartments on-site, which can be used for quarantine or similar measures to ensure the well-being of all participants.
I arrived at the airport Thessaloniki. What do I do now?
The journey to KSK from the airport is quite straightforward using public transportation.
Right in front of the airport, there's a bus stop for the X1 Bus, which departs every 20 minutes (please refer to the schedule [https://www.skg-airport.gr/en/category-detailed/ctg_id-37/nd_id-425]). Tickets can be conveniently purchased at the counter or inside of the bus. Travelers take the X1 bus until it reaches the very final stop, known as the “KTEL Makedonia," easily recognizable by its distinctive giant dome building.
Upon arriving at the "Bus station (KTEL) Makedonia," find the "Pieria" Counter, situated to the right from the entrance. Here, tickets to Katerini, costing approximately 7€, can be obtained (more details available [https://ktelpierias.gr/en/thessaloniki-2/]).
The KTEL Bus will transport passengers directly to the KTEL station in Katerini, where the KSK team will be waiting to offer assistance and a warm welcome.
