Skyrthalia volume II - Pawsitive Parks [be SUSTAINABLE-SPORTIVE-CULTURAL]
Esai en Roi
Anthokipoi Polichnis, Thessaloniki, Greece
Description
The project Skyrthalia vol. II – Pawsitive Parks will take place in Thessaloniki, Greece, from 3 to 22 December 2025. It is implemented as a 20-day volunteering in teams project under the framework of the activity “Be Sustainable, Sportive and Cultural” (compact action). Thessaloniki's stray animal crisis is pervasive, driven by low sterilization rates, limited funding, health risks from disease and parasites, and societal neglect or abuse. Despite commendable efforts from volunteers and animal welfare organizations, the scale of the issue demands comprehensive, coordinated action—including expanded neutering initiatives, stronger legal enforcement, increased municipal support, public education, and institutional resources. The project focuses on two main priorities: (1) Green practices for sustainable urban environments and (2) Protection, care, and support of pets’ quality of life in the city.
Accommodation, food and transport arrangements
Accommodation will be arranged in a welcoming residential setting that ensures participants’ comfort and cultural immersion. Living arrangements include the presence of a dedicated social mentor, who provides continuous guidance and support. This structure enables participants to focus fully on the project objectives, while benefiting from a safe, structured environment that encourages personal growth, team bonding, and meaningful interaction with the local community.
Training during the activity
Training opportunities offered during the project include: (1) A photography workshop with a professional photographer, centered on environmental and social impact documentation and (2) A choreography and performance workshop with a professional choreographer, leading to a public artistic presentation in Thessaloniki during the Christmas period. The project combines volunteering, training, and cultural exchange with direct community involvement, contributing to the sustainable development of urban public spaces and enhancing animal well-being within the city & (3) TRAINING in orienteering.
Participant profile
The project seeks motivated participants who demonstrate a clear interest in sustainability, animal welfare, and community engagement. Applicants should have: Relevant background, knowledge, or experience in areas such as environmental protection, urban sustainability, animal care and welfare, social sciences, arts, or community projects. Previous involvement in volunteering, awareness campaigns, or cultural initiatives will be considered an asset. Motivation and commitment to contribute actively to the project objectives, particularly the improvement of pets’ quality of life in urban environments and the promotion of green practices in public spaces. Willingness to learn and collaborate in an intercultural team, engaging in both practical volunteering and creative training opportunities, including photography and performance. Adaptability and openness to living and working in a structured group environment with guidance from mentors, while respecting local culture and community settings. Age range: Young people eligible under the European Solidarity Corps volunteering in teams scheme. The profile emphasizes participants with an interest and readiness to connect their personal motivation to the project’s themes of sustainability, solidarity, and animal well-being, rather than those with fewer opportunities backgrounds.
Activity dates
From 02/12/2025 to 21/12/2025
Activity location
4, Eratosthenous Str. , Anthokipoi Polichnis, Thessaloniki, Greece
Activity type
Volunteering teams
Looking for participants from
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova (Republic of), Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia
Activity topics
Social challenges
Environment and natural protection
Education and training
Deadline for applications
Application deadline: 08/11/2025 11:00
Project code
2024-1-EL02-ESC51-VTJ-000200188