During my voluntary service in Kryoneri, I worked alongside FILOXENIA to support the village’s cultural initiatives, community projects, and historical preservation efforts. Through diverse activities, from developing a website to trail maintenance, my time in Kryoneri allowed me to connect with the village's vibrant community while contributing to its preservation and development.
One of my primary projects was updating the websites relating to Filoxenia and the community of Kryoneri. I also assisted with maintaining the village’s hiking trails, clearing paths, and ensuring the trails remained safe and enjoyable for visitors. This task not only helped boost Kryoneri’s appeal to tourists but also allowed me to explore the region’s natural beauty and understand the importance of ecotourism in the area. As part of Kryoneri’s preservation efforts, I worked on digitizing its historical archive. Sorting through old photos, letters, and documents, I helped transform physical records into a digital format to protect them from deterioration and make them easily accessible to researchers and locals interested in the village’s past. Adding to the tasks, I supported Filoxenia’s youth exchange programs by assisting with program logistics, facilitating intercultural activities, and helping international participants integrate with local youth. This role gave me insight into cultural exchange and the impact of youth programs on fostering international friendships and understanding. I regularly volunteered at the Youth Club, Leschi, where I organized activities, engaged in discussions with the youth, and helped create a welcoming space for young people to gather. This experience allowed me to connect with Kryoneri’s youth and contribute to their sense of community and belonging. Throughout my stay, I participated in events at the Polykentro Culture Center, from local festivals to workshops. My involvement ranged from helping with setup to engaging attendees and assisting with event logistics. These gatherings highlighted the community’s strong cultural bonds, and it was rewarding to be part of the shared celebrations. Learning the intricacies of website development and adapting to Greek village life were both challenging and rewarding.
My experience in Kryoneri was enhanced by the friendships formed and the sense of achievement that came with supporting the community’s heritage and youth programs. In conclusion, volunteering in Kryoneri offered me a profound connection to Greek culture, community, and history. Through projects and youth activities, I not only contributed to the village but also gained skills and experiences that will stay with me. I am grateful for this meaningful and enriching opportunity with Filoxenia!
Coordinated by FILOXENIA, Intercultural-Environmental Organisation
This project was supported by the European Solidarity Corps of the European Union through the Greek National Agency “INEDIVIM”
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