USB Activity Report 2024 by Balkan Hotspot

BALKANS

ACTIVITY REPORT 2024

Among the many initiatives that shaped this year, we are especially proud of Nomad House, which took place in May 2024 in Thessaloniki. This international cultural project brought together over 4,500 people and 38 collaborations with civil society and artistic organisations. Through its powerful storytelling on migration, Nomad House did not only give voice to those too often unheard it also inspired the launch of a second edition in March 2025, proving that art remains one of the most transformative tools for social change

Over the past year, United Societies of Balkans (USB) has wavering belief that youth can change the world ” continued its journey toward building a more inclusive, democratic, and youthempowered society. While 2023 marked a year of remarkable expansion, 2024 affirmed our deep commitment to the values we hold at our core solidarity, human rights, civic participation, and intercultural dialogue.

Equally inspiring has been the momentum of the Youth Council of Oraiokastro, first launched in 2023 Throughout 2024, the Council gained significant recognition and deepened its

youth engagement, becoming a model that inspired other municipalities, including the idea of a similar initiative in the Municipality of Aristotle. This growth reflects our commitment to grassroots participation and the empowerment of youth in shaping local policies.

None of this would have been possible without the tireless contributions of our team staff, volunteers, interns, partners, and supporters whose passion and commitment continue to fuel USB’s impact across local and international arenas. I extend my deepest thanks to each of them

As we reflect on this year’s achievements, we remain fully aware of the challenges still ahead. Yet, I am confident that by standing together and listening to each other, we can continue to build spaces of belonging, solidarity, and possibility for all.

Let’s carry this momentum into 2025 with courage, connection, and the un-

UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS

United Societies of Balkans (USB) is a non-profit, non-governmental youth organization based in Thessaloniki, Greece. It works in the fields of youth empowerment, human rights, mental well-being, and intercultural dialogue, both locally and internationally.

Founded in 2008 by a group of socially engaged young people from the Balkans and Eastern Europe, USB was established to respond to the challenges faced by youth in the region. Today, it plays an active role in supporting vulnerable groups and promoting youth participation in shaping inclusive and democratic communities. USB implements a wide range of programmes, including Erasmus+ and ESC initiatives, youth exchanges, training courses, campaigns, local interventions, and structured dialogue activities.

It envisions a global and inclusive society where every young person regardless of background is empowered, respected, and actively involved in creating a world with less prejudice, inequality, and injustice.

Vision Mission

A society where all young people especially those from vulnerable groups experience mental and social well-being, are recognized as agents of change, and actively participate in shaping sustainable, just, and inclusive local communities.

To empower young people and marginalized groups through education, awareness, intervention, and volunteering programs, enhancing their mental and social balance in a multicultural and inclusive environment

ACTIVITY REPORT 2024 PROJECT MANAGEMENT

The USB Project Management department plays a central role in the successful implementation of a wide range of initiatives, focusing primarily on the European Erasmus+ programs, but also on CERV, CREATIVE Europe and others. With a strong desire to empower young people through international cooperation, cultural exchange and skills development, our department is the driving force behind the implementation and coordination of various projects.

The main goal of the PM is to equip young people with knowledge, skills and experiences that transcend borders and make them proactive global citizens. The department fosters connections and partnerships between young people from different backgrounds and gives them the opportunity to work together on groundbreaking projects that address common challenges.

Through our programs, we strive to develop a wide range of skills, including leadership, communication, teamwork, intercultural competence and project management, to prepare participants for a dynamic and interconnected world. The PM is committed that all young people, regardless of their background and for those with fewer opportunities, have access to prospects for personal and professional growth, contributing to a more inclusive society.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Director and Project Manager

Yannis Tsilsou

Head of PM Department

Elina Azopoulou

Project Manager

Foteini Vakitsidou

Project Manager Assistant

Dimitris Gavridis

Project Officer

Nafsika Karakomninou-Tsigkopoulou

Alexia Anastasiadi

Easy EU

USB Role: Partner Fund: CERV

The EASY-EU project aimed to involve young and senior citizens in EU civic life through local events across partner countries (IT, GR, IE, AT, HR). With a focus on the 2024 EU Parliament elections, democratic tools, and the European Green Deal, the project engaged 1200 participants, striving for gender balance. It supported edemocracy and digital literacy as vital for active citizenship, aligning with EU priorities. The initiative sought to encourage dialogue and learning between youth and seniors, addressing the need for innovative civic engagement.

Eksedra

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The "EKSEDRA - Holistic Sports Education for Healthy Lifestyles" project aimed to promote holistic sports education for people of all ages. Inspired by ancient Greek principles of holistic human development, it provided education and guidance on various aspects of healthy living. Physical education was delivered by a physiotherapist and personal trainer, while nutrition education was guided by a dietitian to help individuals choose suitable diets for sports and daily life. Additionally, a coach supported participants in establishing healthier lifestyle habits By offering accessible professional education, the project sought to prevent social issues such as obesity, poor posture, post-pandemic depression, social isolation, and substance abuse within the community Taking a holistic approach to physical and mental well-being, EKSEDRA contributed to fostering a healthier and more balanced lifestyle in society

El Poder del Filandón

USB Role: Partner

Fund: Erasmus KA2

The "El poder del Filandón / The Power of Filandón" program aimed to reignite reading interest among young people and children. It focused on local and European actions that promoted reading for learning, integration, and social change, emphasizing reading as a personal joy to prevent exclusion and academic challenges. The program also highlighted the EU’s linguistic diversity and multilingualism while providing training for professionals in reading promotion. Its goals included developing "The European Filandón" educational material, promoting lifelong learning through reading, and implementing inclusive reading campaigns for marginalized groups. It worked to establish a network for reading promotion, share innovative youth practices across Europe, and integrate reading, writing, and communication skills into education. Additionally, the program sought to empower youth for social change through reading, equip professionals for effective reading promotion, encourage public reading and storytelling for youth, increase European youth interest in reading, and create participation opportunities for young people across Europe.

Integration 101

USB Role: Coordinator

Fund: Erasmus KA2

The "Integration 101" Erasmus+ project involved partners from Greece, Romania, Ireland, Turkey, Hungary, and Italy. Spanning 24 months, it focused on using grassroots sports and education to integrate refugees. Throughout the project, a Handbook, Guide, and MOOC were developed for professionals and stakeholders working with young third-country nationals. The project aimed to ensure equal access to sports, upgrade youth work, and enhance immigrant integration. Activities included meetings, the creation of educational manuals, the development of a MOOC, and a campaign launched during the European Week of Sport

GoThen

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

International volunteering projects through the European Solidarity Corps incorporated a significant component of community involvement and development Gothen's initiative emerged from the need to support both new organizations navigating the information and procedures related to solidarity corps activities and the volunteers in fulfilling their needs The initiative aimed to equip volunteers with a platform to study and enhance their understanding and skills in the field, leading to more informed and capable participants This process ensured that volunteers made a greater and more effective contribution to the missions of the organizations they joined while also amplifying their positive impact on society. Additionally, it strengthened the capacity of organizations to engage and connect with volunteers, providing them with information about their work, actions, and ways to get involved.

LIFE CHAMPIONS

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The project was implemented as a 24-month activity aimed at reinforcing positive social values and principles by utilizing a specific setting for their dissemination the sports field a specific target group for their promotion football trainers and specific methods non-formal education in and through sports Thirteen partners representing four sectors (sports, youth, research, and education) from seven European countries collaborated to promote the concept of education in and through sport, recognizing it as a powerful channel for disseminating diverse messages The project was based on the understanding that the role of trainers as educators and pedagogues needed revitalization, not only for the benefit of sports but also for society as a whole

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

This project brought together youth workers and teachers to develop methods for facilitating the integration of young immigrants It focused on sharing good practices, existing methods, and useful activities in the field of immigrant integration

The goal was to provide young immigrants and their families with tools for better integration into new cities and countries Through the project, youth workers and teachers acquired knowledge and skills to organize activities that eased integration, promoted social connections, and supported access to education and employment.

To further assist immigrants, an informative brochure was created, covering essential information for newcomers, including residence registration, school enrollment, financial aid, language learning opportunities, healthcare access, and more. The brochure also featured information tailored to young people, promoting better inclusion in society by highlighting places to socialize, activities, and available support resources.

Nomad House

USB Role: Partner Fund: Creative Europe (CREA)

La Nomad House was an international cultural project initiated and supported by the Compagnie des Nouveaux Disparus. It was carried out within the framework of the Europe Creative programme in partnership with six countries Functioning as a true European itinerant cultural center, La Nomad House facilitated artistic creation, dissemination, and scientific research on migration

In Europe, the project aimed to amplify the cry of injustice that resonates more than ever within societies. La Nomad House encompassed multidisciplinary artistic workshops, a theatrical creation, and various cultural activities, including a traveling exhibition and conference-debates led by academics who shared the trajectories and life stories of migrants arriving on the European continent.

All participating countries shared a commitment to deep reflection on migration through a multidisciplinary artistic approach. La Nomad House sought to give a voice to migrants and activist associations, disseminating these life stories through its itinerant cultural center in an effort to shift perceptions and foster change.

My City Through Time (MCT)

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The main objective of the project was to contribute to the recognition and improvement of youth work and its practices while strengthening the link between youth work and civic and historical education.

The partners aimed to raise awareness among young people, promote active citizenship, prevent radicalization, counter the appeal of populism and nationalism, support democratization processes, and promote European values

REST _ ART

USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2

The REST ART project was an innovative initiative designed to promote environmental awareness through the power of art Its goal was to create meaningful and lasting change by engaging the public and key stakeholders in environmental preservation By combining aesthetic practices with ecological activism, REST ART aimed to raise awareness, sensitize communities, and prevent harmful attitudes toward the environment Through planned mobilities and a comparative approach, the project highlighted plastic waste management and encouraged positive action at the community level REST ART was an international collaboration involving seven organizations across six countries.

WE ARE HER

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The project began in late 2023 and it lasts for two years The introduction of the WE ARE HER project aligns with the EU's Gender Action Plan, aiming to empower women, girls, and young people globally The project focuses on youth engagement, aligning with EU Youth Strategy pillars and European Youth Goals, contributing to sustainable development, and addressing the pandemic's impact on education, employment, and mental health. The project's objectives include fostering cooperation among organizations across the Mediterranean, promoting gender equality through non-formal education methodologies, and targeting disadvantaged youth for active participation The project aligns with the EU Inclusion and Diversity Strategy, the European Year of Youth 2022, and the European Years of Skills 2023, aiming to develop digital skills among young people.

TUNI

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA3

The TUNI project aimed to enhance a democratic and inclusive Europe by engaging young trade union activists (TU) Over a 24-month period, the project established a network of young TU leaders and activists to strengthen youth civic engagement

The project's phases included research, curriculum development, a four-month union academy, and an information campaign These efforts empowered participants to create action plans and share knowledge, directly reaching 700 young TU members Additionally, an online campaign was launched to reach a broader audience of 700,000 people. The project concluded with a consortium visit to Brussels, where youth sections of trade unions were involved in European youth policy discussions. A final conference brought together trade union representatives to present a new model and lay the foundation for future actions.

(STS) Sign language for beginners in Europe – Spread the sign

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The project, inspired by the long-standing initiative Spreadthesign, seeks to revolutionize the accessibility of sign language content in various European countries. The primary goal is to cater to the needs of the target audience, including deaf students, their teachers, and families. The plan is to produce new sign language content for beginners, particularly to support hearing teachers and families who lack sign language knowledge. This initiative aims to enhance communication between hearing individuals and their deaf pupils or children, promoting the right of the deaf community to access education, culture, and information in their native sign language. The project is in response to the persistent demand for accessible sign language materials, particularly for beginners. By addressing this need, the project strives to make sign-language learning more straightforward and accessible. The project's mobile application promotes sign language learning in various settings, from local everyday situations to international experiences, aligning with the evolving trend of flexible education and the digital transition in Europe

TUNE 2023-2025

USB Role: Coordinator

TUNE – Transnational United Network In Europe

18 Partner Organisations from 16 Different Countries Around Europe!

Based on the Erasmus+ programme priorities for 2023, which focus on Inclusion and Diversity, digital transformation, Environment and fight against climate change, participation in democratic life, and common values and civic engagement, the project has initiated strategic objectives that align with the EU Youth Strategy and, more specifically, with Article 165 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).

The primary aim of the project is to implement a variety of activities designed to promote and support the European Youth Strategy and its youth goals, while also fostering greater involvement and participation in EU projects

ECA-European Citizenship Academy

USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA1

The European Citizenship Academy is a European youth education project which aims to engage young people and youth organizations in the democratic process and society by offering training, developing exchange and encouraging meetings, discussion and debate, to help them identify their link with the EU, its values and its democratic foundations.

To this end, a consortium of 8 youth associations of various sizes, both rural and urban, from all over Europe has been formed to develop content and materials for education about Europe in youth work, to implement youth exchanges on the subject, to support local peer educational actions on Europe and to promote education about Europe in youth work. Designed as a non-formal, hybrid and gamified learning pathway, ECA develops a method that guides young people towards acquiring knowledge about the Union, appropriating their citizenship and finally becoming empowered as European citizens.

During the project 300 young people will be trained, 8 youth exchanges and local training of youth leaders will be implemented and an e-learning platform about education about the Eu in the youth field will be created.

As a European Union education project for young people, ECA aims to equip young people with a solid knowledge of the European Union and how it works, and to give them the means to act as European citizens, knowingly and actively ECA is fully in line with European policies and ambitions for young people.

Youth Council Oraiokastro

USB Role: Coordinator

This project promotes rural youth participation through a local council and econsultation site. Goals include community engagement, digital inclusion, and sharing best practices. Activities involve events, consultations, and a manual. Outcomes encompass enhanced democracy, local society, and youth involvement in EU Youth Dialog. The local council shapes policies, while the project aids disadvantaged youth in democratic engagement. The aim is to establish youth participation in local bodies and foster a culture of involvement.

Youth Speaces

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA3

The project "Youth sPEACEs: Urban spaces for active social participation and dialogue" aimed to strengthen the youth sector in Europe and bridge the local and European dimensions. This connection was fostered by promoting and increasing the role of local youth spaces within the continental context, empowering them, encouraging their networking, and proposing a "European Charter for Youth Spaces "

To achieve these goals, the partnership supported the active participation of young people in citizenship activities and experiences where they could take a leading role. This approach helped bridge the local and European dimensions, creating a pathway for youth voices to be heard The project was implemented by nine organizations from seven EU countries (Italy, Greece, France, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, and Sweden), while additional countries participated in the online activities.

The main outcome of the project was the proposal of a "European Charter for Youth Spaces," designed to stimulate debate and encourage concrete actions to recognize and strengthen the role of these participatory experiences across Europe.

When Scars Become Art

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The European project When Scars (!) Become Art, is running until 2026, aiming to create a robust framework that enhances understanding, inclusion, and mental well-being for young Roma and refugees

Through this initiative, data analysis will be conducted with inputs from young people, NGOs, and mental health centers to better understand the intricate links between social inclusion and mental health among these groups. This analysis will provide insights to inform the development of two innovative tools specifically designed for youth workers. By 2026, these tools will be available to support youth workers in improving their skills to assess and articulate the mental well-being needs of young Roma and refugees. The tools will also equip youth workers with methodologies for implementing targeted short-term interventions, fostering a supportive environment that addresses mental health concerns among these vulnerable groups

Furthermore, the project includes specialized training programs for youth workers, to help them evolve their knowledge and skills in mental well-being interventions By utilizing these tools, youth workers will enhance their competencies in addressing the unique challenges faced by young Roma and refugee populations, ultimately promoting greater social inclusion and mental health resilience within these communities

When Scars (!) Become Art represents a significant step towards empowering organizations and professionals working with marginalized groups, as they gain new resources to support the mental well-being and inclusion of young Roma and refugees across Europe.

Break the glass ceiling

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

The “Break the Glass Ceiling” project is a targeted initiative dedicated to elevate the quality of youth services by emphasizing volunteer projects within the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) and empowering young women. The project’s primary objective is to conduct comprehensive research, publish and disseminate findings, and advocate for methods and best practices that improve youth work. Aligned with the Erasmus+ priorities, the initiative aims to enhance youth services by addressing the unique experiences and challenges faced by young women. By advancing recognition and bolstering the efficacy of youth work through research and publications, the project strives to improve both the quality and accessibility of youth services. Additionally, the widespread dissemination of findings is intended to strengthen the international visibility and influence of youth work.

A core component of the research focuses on analyzing gender dynamics within the ESC. The study delves into the socio-economic and political factors that contribute to higher participation rates of women compared to men and examines how these gender dynamics shape the professional and personal growth of female volunteers Furthermore, the project assesses the effectiveness of existing EU policies in fostering gender mainstreaming within the ESC and evaluates their impact on local communities This initiative seeks to highlight the importance of gender-sensitive approaches within youth services and to expand the reach and impact of youth work in Europe

Up2Youth

USB Role: Partner

Fund: Erasmus KA2

Up2Youth is a three-year project aiming to empower young people by encouraging their active involvement in their communities, promoting urban culture, enhancing intercultural dialogue, and advocating for policy changes that support youth engagement. Ultimately, the goal is to create more inclusive and dynamic communities where young people play a key role in shaping the social and cultural fabric of their cities. By doing so, we hope to not only uplift young people but also contribute to building more connected, diverse, and vibrant urban environments

To achieve this, the project will carry out a series of activities designed to have a real impact. We will begin with in-depth research to get a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities young people face in their communities. Study visits will provide participants with the chance to learn from successful youth-led projects in other cities. We will also organize workshops and capacity-building sessions, cultural initiatives and awareness campaigns. On the policy front, we’ll work to influence key stakeholders, ensuring that youth voices are heard and that supportive policies are put in place.

As a result of these efforts, we expect to see a significant increase in youth involvement in community life and decision-making processes. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of different cultures, while youth workers will be better equipped to support and mentor them. Our cultural initiatives will help create a more vibrant and cohesive urban atmosphere, bringing people together through shared experiences. Ultimately, we aim to bring about real change that ensures ongoing support for youth participation, leaving a lasting impact on communities by building more empowered, engaged, and inclusive environments.

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

Youth Peace Ambassadors of Non-Formal Learning - phase 2" (YAMNFL 2) is a continuation of the successful project "Youth Ambassadors of Non-Formal Learning" which was implemented from 11/2020 to 05/2022. The purpose of the program is to engage young people in non-formal learning (NFL) activities and to strengthen young people's abilities to recognize the skills acquired through nonformal learning Thus, it aims to improve their skills through innovative methods that will contribute to increasing their employability in the EU and the Western Balkans

We seek to involve Youth NGOs responsible for the development of non-formal learning activities, civil Society Organizations working with disadvantaged groups with an emphasis on youth, public bodies which are responsible for designing specific policies, private enterprises with the aim of enhancing the skills and recognition of non-formal learning abilities by employers and young people

The beneficiaries of the action will join the 2-year journey to get the knowledge of best practices used in their local realities, features of non-formal learning for increasing (self)employability, to collect inspiring successful stories, to develop dedicated tools and methods, and to get trained to directly work in the field.

Digital Hoop

USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2

Digital hoop is a project aiming to promote youth social entrepreneurship and education of young people with fewer opportunities using non-formal education methods The first objective of the project is to focus on promoting active citizenship, initiative and social entrepreneurship among young people through the Mentorship Program (MP), the Capacity Training (CT) and the creation of an online Social Business Planning Program (SBPPO) for young people with fewer opportunities. The second objective seeks to promote employability of young people by enabling them to evolve their hard and soft skills and knowledge needed to have better entrepreneurial or work opportunities. Third objective involves promoting the quality, innovation and recognition of youth work. The project includes communication campaigns that that will disseminate the results of the project and those obtained by the participants.

The project mainly addresses the needs of disadvantaged people to have stable income. It addresses youth access to entrepreneurship and reduces the high financial instability among youth with fewer opportunities by using training, mentoring and online support tools to become an entrepreneur. Furthermore, we seek to address the seek to support businesses and their creation by providing long term mentoring and support programs, a training course and the SBPPO mentioned above

VEBY

USB Role: Coordinator

Fund: Erasmus KA1

The VEBY project was conceived as a response to pressing issues of disinformation, polarization and social exclusion faced by young people during the COVID-19 pandemic and the long-standing geopolitical tensions in the Balkan region The project’s primary focus is on digital learning and exchange, aiming to empower young individuals with digital skills and literacy to combat disinformation and engage in constructive dialogue with their peers across Balkans. In particular, the project seeks to address the challenges faced by young people from diverse backgrounds, including ethnic minorities, migrants and those hindered by geographical and financial barriers These marginalized groups often lack access to educational opportunities and face difficulties in participating in in activities like virtual youth exchanges The project collects data to better understand their needs and develop guidelines to enhance their inclusion in virtual exchanges.

The project aims to assess the needs of youth for participating in virtual exchanges, especially of those with facing obstacles, to equip youth workers and educators with knowledge and skills on online group facilitation and fostering of constructive dialogue, to connect young people from different countries and provide them with knowledge, skills and attitudes and to deal with disinformation and polarization, to encourage intercultural dialogue. Additionally, it aims to reduce the unity gap in Balkan countries and promote EU values, to activate young people in becoming active citizens and to provide know-how on inclusion to youth workers and organizations and to promote online non-formal education in social inclusion, peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue and media literacy.

ACTIVITY REPORT 2024 VOLUNTEER

Volunteer department of USB is responsible for the diverse projects and actions of the organisation, in Thessaloniki and the Aristotelis Municipality in Halkidiki.

Department coordinates the long-running “Balkan Hotspot Youth Media Lab”, manages USB’s local ever-growing ESC hosting partners network of more than 10 organisations, the organisations highly demanding volunteering teams projects, the various volunteering projects in Stratoni and Arnaia, the local volunteering team as well as the VET activities hosted by USB and other partners in Thessaloniki.

Department also supports the visibility of USB through info days, organisation of local campaigns and participation in actions within the city and also enhances the networking and partnership expansion of the organisation, both on a local and international level, through the participation in networking events as well as by organising such activities in Greece.

VOLUNTEER

Coordinator

Christian Cibba

Current Staff

Christos Leivaditis, Kiriaki Pelagou, Dionisis Tonas

External collaborators

Urania Rapti

Foteini Karamouzi (Stratoni)

Marianna Karava (Stratoni-Arnaia)

Panagiotis Tasiopoulos (Arnaia summer)

Volunteer department of USB enjoyed a productive and highly active year concerning its actions in 2024 In Thessaloniki, European Solidarity Corps volunteers of our project “Balkan Hotspot Media Lab” created various media outputs, local events and campaigns in the city promoting social matters and intercultural understanding. This year, the project welcomed long-term, short-term and team volunteers from different countries who contributed in its outputs, as well as VET. Local hosting partners network continued to operate as Irida Women’s Center, Action Art, Schedia stin Poli, Faros tou Kosmou, Ecological Movement of Thessaloniki, Edu Act and Argo, all hosted activities of incoming volunteers, of different forms and durations Argo has also officially been integrated in the hosting partners network by obtaining the ESC hosting accreditation by the Greek NA with our support Furthermore, Thess Pride and Positive Voice also contributed in activities, especially of the volunteering teams projects in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki More specifically, department managed the big Volunteering Teams in High Priority Areas project “100Volts”, which sees a total of 100 volunteers from six different countries participate in activities managed by USB and hosted in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki.

First team of Thessaloniki operated during May-July 2024, raising awareness on human rights, stds prevention and effectively supported the implementation of EuroPride 2024, with the contribution of the 2 aforementioned partners. Similarly, teams of Halkidiki realised activities in Stratoni, Arnaia and other areas of the Aristotelis Municipality, promoting health, stds prevention and skin protection through diverse activities Furthermore, local partner network of Thessaloniki has also been enhanced through VET activities, which saw youngsters join Edu Act as well as other local partners in the field of IT Local volunteering team with youngsters in Thessaloniki was also active, creating various social actions in the city, and supporting other organised by USB.

Next ESC groups and long-term volunteers continued in the same manner in the second half of the year. Two crucial teams of the Volunteering Teams in High Priority Areas project “100Volts” operated during this period Specifically, a group supporting the therapeutic organic farming project of Argo operated in the city during summer months and early September Team supported the social reintegration of ex drug-addicted people through its actions. The project’s final team operated in Thessaloniki during September-November 2024 Its focus has been on the promotion of health and cancer awareness, by the creation of media outputs as well as the realisation and supporting of campaigns and informatory actions in the city, collaborating with local stakeholders. Team organized a “Pink Week”, coinciding with Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, with external actions to raise awareness regarding the topic, as well as online actions. Activities to engage local and international youngsters were also implemented during Erasmus Week. In the same time, in Thessaloniki, all of the hosting organisations welcomed new long-term volunteers in autumn who engaged in their activities and crucially supported them during the year.

Ecological Movement of Thessaloniki was the only exception, as it instead hosted three short-term volunteers, who supported the implementation of Green Wave Festival 2024. Irida Women’s Center also hosted a one-month volunteering team that supported the preparation and organisation of its annual Social Christmas Bazaar. A Networking event for European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus+ was also organised in Stratoni in early October, with 10 representatives from organisations from different countries.

Key Activities

-“100Volts” Volunteering Teams in High Priority Areas project, that brought a total of 100 volunteers from Ukraine, France, Italy, Portugal, Turkiye and Greece in diverse activities in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki of 2024 Possibly the most demanding and biggest scale project implemented so far by the volunteer department of USB.

-Supporting major events in the city, such as the La Nomad Festival and Europride 2024.

-Organisation of 20+ open events, campaigns, info-days and other activities to reach local community and youth, in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki.

-Active local hosting partners network, with Irida Women’s Center, Action Art, Schedia stin Poli, Edu Act, Ecological Movement of Thessaloniki, Faros tou Kosmou, Argo, Thess Pride and Positive Voice, all hosting volunteers or participating as associated partners in our projects in 2024.

-Supporting Green Wave Festival 2024 (12-14 September 2024)

-Networking event in Stratoni-Aristotelis Municipality (7-11 October)

-Erasmus Week 2024, activities organised by “100Volts” ESC team and long-term volunteers (14-18 October)

-“Pink Week” , activities organised by “100Volts” ESC team and long-term volunteers to raise awareness on cancer prevention and health (21-25 October)

-Organisation of 20+ open events, campaigns, info-days and other activities to reach local community and youth, in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki.

-Expansion of the organisation’s international partners network and strengthening of the already existing one.

Highlights of 2024

-Open creative Workshop on the occasion of Women’s Day 2024 and short documentary “She’s/Heard: Celebrating Womanhood on International Women’s Day 2024” (by local volunteers and Balkan Hotspot). (8 March)

-“40 Waves” documentary by 2 Balkan Hotspot volunteers. (17 April)

-“ESC Networking event and Study visit”, organised for the first time by the department, in Thessaloniki and 1 day visit in Halkidiki (8-12 April)

-Supporting EuroPride 2024, 1st volunteering team of 100Volts supported the implementation of the events as part of its tasks. (21-29 June)

-Erasmus Week 2024, activities organised by “100Volts” ESC team and long-term volunteers (14-18 October)

-“Pink Week” , activities organised by “100Volts” ESC team and long-term volunteers to raise awareness on cancer prevention and health (21-25 October)

-Volunteering team supporting the organisation of the Social Christmas Bazaar of Irida Women’s Center (November-December 2024)

-Highly enhanced participation of external youngsters in the events organised by the volunteers of “Balkan Hotspot” in Thessaloniki

Fields of activity

Non-formal education

Work with children

Youth media/ Media production

Women

empowerment

Integration and everyday needs of marginalized groups

LGBTQI+ rights

Raise awareness on STDs

Raise awareness on Cancer

Support for Roma community

Support in the implementation of festivals

Support for small & rural communities

Technology in education

Supporting Community Centers

Art and narrative art/storytelling

Environmental Issues

Volunteering

Projects

Host

Organizations

Long-term

Short-term

Nationalities of Participants

Activities Thessaloniki

Support - organisation of activities and open space for the new year's USB office open event

Open artistic - creative workshop for women's day 2024

City treasure hunt in cooperation with Infinity Greece

Info Day - campaign informing youth in the city about the upcoming EU elections

Tandem language exchnage in cooperation with ESN Thessaloniki and Galileo Galilei.

Open event-discussion to raise awareness on DYKE people

Open mic event with topics: SWAP Language, performance and Pride

Open mic event

Intercultural Dances event in the city center

Inclusive Football Game and after event at Argo

Open Mic event in Rent rooms

Language Tandem

1st Book club meeting

Eurogames event for EU awareness

2nd Book club meeting

Inclusive Football Game and after event at Argo

Open Mic event in Rent rooms, focused on the topic of health

Open "Pink" Bicycle Ride, for cancer awareness, in cooperation with the Thessaloniki Cycling Club

Info day at Rent Rooms for Eurodesk

Tandem Language Exchange

Open Mic event in Rent rooms

9/2/2024

8/3/2024

27/4/2024

22-27/5/2024

31/5/2024

13/6/2024

20/6/2024

24/7/2024

21/8/2024

28/8/2024

29/8/2024

9/5/2024

10/3/2024

15/10/2024

16/10/2024

22/10/2024

23/10/2024

24/10/2024

25/10/2024

31/10/2024

14/11/2024

12/12/2024

Stratoni

Info Day about HIV and STDs in cooperation with Thess Checkpoint

Artistic exhibition organised by the volunteering team

Info Day about Skin Cancer and Skin Protection

Swap Bazaar for locals

Sports activities in the village, with open sport tournaments for youth

Info day on HIV and STDs for the local communities, organised by the volunteers of Arnaia and Stratoni, in cooperation with Thess Checkpoint

Open informatory day for skin cancer protection for the local community

Informatory campaign and free testing for STDs for locals in collaboration with the Mobile Testing Unit of Thess Checkpoint

Arnaia

Open movie screening

Open sports event for the local youth, organised by the volunteering team

Info day on HIV and STDs for the local communities, organised by the volunteers of Arnaia and Stratoni, in cooperation with Thess Checkpoint

Intercultural night dedicated to Ukraine, traditions, music and food, organised by the volunteers, open for the local community

Open foootball tournament for youth

Movie screening in Arnaia

Open volleyball tournament for youth in Arnaia

Informatory campaign and free testing for STDs for locals in collaboration with the Mobile Testing Unit of Thess Checkpoint

16/5/2024

14/6/2024

21/6/2024

26/6/2024

27/6 /2024

24/7/2024

8/2/2024

24/8/2024

17/7/2024

19/7/2024

24/7/2024

30/7/2024

8/6/2024

20/8/2024

22/8/2024

21/8/2024

24/8/2024

The mobility department’s main focus of work is on Erasmus + KA1 projects (such as youth exchanges and training courses) and the European Solidarity Corps. More specifically, the Mobility Officer is responsible for the recruitment, preparation of participants in KA1 projects and the dissemination of their activities by implementing local actions. Communication and partnership building among youth organisations in Erasmus+ partner countries are one of the other aims of the department.

In addition, the Mobility Officer plays the role of the sending mentor of local youth participating in the European Solidarity Corps all around Europe.

Finally, one of the responsibilities of the department is to organize outreach events to promote and inform young people about mobility and volunteering opportunities.

MOBILITY

Head of Department

Kyriaki Pelagou

Mobility

Officer Christina Dede

Through United Societies of Balkans, more than 150 young people had the opportunity to participate and enhance their skills in projects all around Europe during the year of 2024.

Countries of collaboration

Youth Exchanges

Training Courses

ESC Projects

Other

Environmental Issues

Non-formal education

Personal Growth

European Citizenship

Youth empowerment

Intercultural dialogue

Human Rights

Digital Skills

Entrepreneurship

Social Inclusion

Rural Development

Sports

Arts and Culture

Mental Health

Participation & Volunteering

My Erasmus+ Experience

“Make a Path”, Slovenia

“The atmosphere between all participants was very friendly and this helped in every activity that we had.”

-Evangelos

“You Save”, Spain

“We learned quite a lot about each other and built up really good relationships in just a week ”

-Paolina

“ECA” Italy

“ the most beautiful aspect of the exchange by far is the strong friendships I made in just a few days and that I will remember for a long time.”

-Lucas

Digital Storytelling 4 Understanding, Slovakia

“Erasmus+ gave us the chance to get to know better hidden aspects of Europe and we would recommend it to anyone interested in similar experiences.”

-Valentina & Vassiliki

“Sustainability: growing with care”, Bulgaria

“Undoubtedly, it formed a new perspective on how we perceive the world and encouraged us to engage in depth with the concept of sustainability ”

-Alexandra

“Imagine” Cyprus

“...this program contributed to the creation of healthy relations between the aforementioned countries and proved that despite our cultural differences, we are all equal and share the same world!”

-Panagiotis

BALKAN HEART

Balkan Heart, a project created by United Societies of Balkans, was founded in 2018 and is located in the heart of Thessaloniki. It is a multipurpose creativity space consisting of two fully equipped rooms, designed to host trainings, seminars, business meetings, workshops, and events focused on educational, cultural, and artistic development.

As part of the organization’s infrastructure, the space is regularly used not only by external groups but also by USB’s volunteers and staff for internal meetings, project activities, and learning sessions creating a vibrant and interactive hub of daily activity.

BALKAN HEART

Coordinator

Christina Dede

Balkan Heart Activity

Podcast Recordings

International Project Meetings

Thematic Workshops

Office Meetings Unique one-time cultural events

Film Screenings

Key Highlights

1 March – A vibrant jewellery-making workshop with 30 participants, whose facilitator expressed interest in future collaboration

29 February – A record-setting day where both rooms were fully booked by two separate rental groups, plus podcast recordings

February and June – Two of the busiest months, with 7 rentals each (85 and 75 hours of occupancy, respectively)

January–June – Weekend activity expanded, with 6 weekends fully booked (13–14 Jan, 27–28 Jan, 27 Apr, 18–19 May, 25–26 May, 1–2 Jun)

November – The busiest month in the second half of the year, with 10 rentals, two of which lasted a full working week:

- 04–08/11/2024

- 11–15/11/2024

SOCIAL MEDIA

The Social Media (or Press) Department is responsible for managing and monitoring the organization's online presence across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and the official website. Its primary role is to transform content from the organization’s various departments into engaging, original posts for social media, publish articles on the website, and design all promotional materials including leaflets, posters, and other marketing products.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Press Officer

Panos Skepadianos Facebook Total

1103

822

10.975

181

Unique Visitors Page New Follows

Google Business

Unique Visitors from all sources Website clicks from your business profile

Directions asked Calls received

Google Search from Mobile

(43.4%)

Google Search from Desktop

Google Search Keys

United Societies

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

The Finance Department serves as the financial backbone and strategic steward USB, overseeing the management, allocation, and utilization of financial resources. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and effective financial planning, the Finance Department plays a critical role in ensuring the stability and success of the organization. At the heart of our Finance Department’s mission is the commitment to sound financial management that supports the organization’s broader goals and aspirations.