The HOME Project

𝗠𝗘𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣𝗦: For nearly a decade, our Youth to Youth program with ACS Athens (American Community Schools) has shown what can happen when young people are given the opportunity to learn from one another, grow together, and build genuine connections. This year was no exception.

Throughout the school year, teenagers from our shelters and ACS Athens students came together every week to study, play sports, explore creative activities, share experiences, and support one another. What emerged were friendships built on trust, respect, and a growing sense of belonging.

As we gathered to celebrate the end of the year, children and volunteers reflected on the memories they created together, the challenges they overcame, and the confidence they gained along the way. Each participant received a certificate recognizing their commitment and achievements before the celebrations continued with music, games, pizza, and plenty of laughter. 🎉🍕⚽

Reflecting on the spirit of the program, ACS Athens Dean of Academics Julia Tokatlidou captured it perfectly: “This is an environment of trust, of care, of family”.

𝗗𝗜𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬: Teenagers from our shelters stepped into the stories, traditions, and everyday life of old Athens during their visit to the City of Athens Cultural Center “Melina”. ✨🏛️🎭

Through the Haridimos Family Collection, they explored the fascinating world of Karagiozis and discovered one of Greece’s most beloved forms of folk art, learning how shadow theater has brought humor, storytelling, and social commentary to audiences for generations.

They also had the chance to travel back in time, wandering through a life-sized Athenian neighborhood filled with authentic homes, shops, and everyday objects from the late 19th and early 20th century.

𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗬 𝗥𝗘𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: “Thank you so much for everything. I will miss you”, said 17 year old K. once she heard that, following months of anticipation, she and her 12 year old brother M. would be reunited with their mother in Germany.

Originally from Iran, the siblings arrived in Greece in November 2025 after a challenging journey through Iraq and Turkey. Once they were placed in our shelters, our team ensured that they received comprehensive care, psychosocial support, and a safe, stable environment where they could rebuild a sense of everyday life.

At the same time, our Legal Team worked closely with their mother, providing guidance every step of the way and helping bring the family together again.