Service Learning is a new initiative of the Greek America Foundation aiming to engage North American university students with volunteer programs in Greece.
Our program fulfills a dual purpose. First, students are immersed into contemporary Greek life, while simultaneously volunteering for important humanitarian relief programs and helping to make a lasting impact on contemporary problems facing Greece.
We are proud to share information about our inaugural Summer 2017 Service Learning Program, which will run for three weeks in Athens and will engage North American students to volunteer in shelters housing unaccompanied refugee children.
University students from any US or Canadian college or university are encouraged to apply.
Spend 3 weeks in Athens volunteering with lone refugee children with the Greek America Foundation’s Service Learning Program, in association with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago.
Travel to the heart of Greek civilization and experience the ancient past while also confronting the global social challenges of the 21st century.
We are looking for North American college students willing to spend 4-6 hours a day with refugee children living in the Home Project’s group homes.
The HOME Project is a non-profit organization that addresses the needs of refugee and migrant children who have arrived in Greece alone.
Through its programs it looks to provide relief from suffering to all those affected by the crisis and to give hope out of despair.
Volunteers will participate in recreational activities such as sports and social gatherings, help children acquire necessary skills through educational tutoring, and pursue creative outlets such as music and the visual arts.
Additionally, volunteers may participate in some administrative work at the Home Project’s offices.
The program will run July 1- 24th and includes:
-Airfare to and from Athens
-Lodging in Athens
-An orientation, training, and mentor support
-One weekend excursion to archaeological sites and the seaside
-An on-site staff member of the Greek America Foundation
-Travel insurance
*Participants will be responsible for their own meals and incidentals while in Greece.
*Participants do not need to have knowledge of a foreign language. The principal language of the program will be English.
We are looking for volunteers who have experience in the following areas: sports and youth recreation, music and visual arts, the social sciences, and IT skills.
However, experience in these areas is desired, but not required. Most importantly, we seek individuals who are ready to open their hearts and immerse themselves in contemporary Athenian life.
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume by June 5th. Click here to apply.
Phone and Skype interviews will be conducted the week of June 5 and applicants will be notified by June 12 if they have been selected.
The Greek America Foundation is a non-profit corporation in the state of New York whose mission is to “preserve, perpetuate, and promote Greek culture and ideals.”
We accomplish this mission through three strategic programming areas: social and cultural events academic programs, and charitable aid to Greece.
Our Chicago roots have allowed for a long and fruitful collaboration with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago on programs advancing our shared missions, values and ideals.
Interested in supporting our efforts and giving more transformational opportunities to young people in our community? Please contact us to make a donation that will help us continue to impact young people’s lives.