2025 UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS ACTIVITY REPORT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
06 02 04 Table of contents
08 Our Team
United Societies of Balkans
14
Project Management
The year at a glance
30 Volunteer
41
Mobility
48 Social Media
56 Networks
58 Looking Ahead
53 Finance Department
60
Acknowledgements
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS
United Societies of Balkans (USB) is a non-profit organisation based in Thessaloniki, Greece. Since its establishment in 2008, USB has been working to promote inclusive societies, equal opportunities, mental and social wellbeing, and active participation for all. USB was founded on the belief that young people are powerful agents of change, capable of contributing to fairer, more sustainable and more cohesive communities. Through educational activities, psychosocial and community-based interventions, volunteering, awareness-raising campaigns and European mobility projects, USB brings together young people, professionals, organisations and local communities across Thessaloniki, Greece and South-Eastern Europe.
Mission
Our mission is to empower young people and vulnerable social groups through education, awareness-raising, psychosocial support, volunteering and community engagement. We aim to strengthen participation, democratic values, inclusion and wellbeing within an open, multicultural and accessible environment.
Vision
We envision a society where all young people, especially those from vulnerable or underrepresented groups, enjoy mental and social wellbeing, are recognised as agents of change and actively participate in shaping sustainable, fair and inclusive local communities.
Values
USB’s work is guided by the values of inclusion, solidarity, diversity, active citizenship, participation, equality, cooperation and respect for human dignity. We believe in creating safe spaces where people can express themselves, develop their skills, connect with others and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Where we work
USB is based in Thessaloniki and works at local, national and European level, with a particular focus on South-Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Our activities connect local community needs with European opportunities, encouraging cooperation, intercultural dialogue and knowledge exchange.
Who we work with USB primarily works with young people, volunteers, youth workers, educators, professionals, local communities and civil society organisations. Particular attention is given to young people with fewer opportunities, people from vulnerable social groups, migrants and refugees, LGBTQI+ people, people experiencing social exclusion, and individuals facing mental health or psychosocial challenges.
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ARISTODIMOS (ARIS) PARASCHOU PRESIDENT
2025 was a year of growth, consolidation and new perspectives for United Societies of Balkans. At a time when young people and communities across Europe continue to face social, economic and political challenges, our commitment to inclusion, participation, solidarity and active citizenship remained at the heart of everything we did. Throughout the year, USB continued to create spaces where young people can learn, participate, express themselves and connect with others. From European projects and international mobility programmes to volunteering, local initiatives, cultural activities and awareness-raising campaigns, our work brought together people from different backgrounds while addressing issues such as mental health, social inclusion, democratic participation, gender equality, environmental sustainability, media literacy and intercultural dialogue. Our impact continued to grow both locally and internationally. We strengthened our presence in Thessaloniki and the Municipality of Aristotelis, welcomed more than 100 volunteers through a wide range of solidarity activities, supported more than 100 young people in participating in mobility opportunities across Europe, and worked with partners from dozens of countries. The approval of USB’s first European Solidarity Corps Humanitarian Aid project also marked an important new chapter, extending our solidarity work beyond Europe. Behind every project, mobility, workshop, campaign and event are people. I would therefore like to thank our staff, volunteers, partners, participants, local communities, institutions and supporters for their trust, energy and contribution throughout the year. Our achievements are the result of collective work and a shared belief that meaningful change is built through cooperation. As we move forward, our ambition is not simply to do more, but to deepen the quality and impact of our work. We will continue listening to the communities around us, developing new partnerships and creating opportunities that allow young people—especially those facing fewer opportunities—to participate actively in shaping more inclusive, democratic and sustainable societies. Thank you for being part of this journey.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
The year at a glance
16 152 27
Projects
Volunteers
Mobilitiy Activities
2.080.729
Social Media Reach
30 56
Partner Countries
Local Activities 6
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
La Nomad House 2 March
Volunteer Day Party December
Green Fashion Champions June
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OUR TEAM
OUR TEAM
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Yannis Tsilsou Director
Yannis Tsilsou graduated from the department of "International and European Studies" and completed his master's degree on "European Youth Policies". Since 2012 he has participated in many organizations as an activist, member or volunteer, and in several training projects on intercultural dialogue, human rights and European policies.
Christian Cibba Team Manager
Christian Cibba, has studied International Relations at La Sapienza University in Rome, focusing on Cooperation and Development. He is a journalist and has worked for newspapers and nongovernmental organizations dealing with social issues, and as a Program Manager and Trainer in youth organizations.
Christina Tourlakidou
Head of Finance Department Christina Tourlakidou is from and lives in Thessaloniki. She has completed her studies in the Department of Economics and her postgraduate studies in Business Administration and Information Systems at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She has been working in the Department of Finance of U.S.B. since 2019 and her main role is the financial management of European programs.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Alexia Anastasiadi Project Manager
Alexia Anastasiadi holds an integrated master's degree from the department of Architectural Engineering, of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) and is skilled in interconnected thinking, problem solving and creativity. At USB she works as a project manager, handling multi-year projects and fundraising. Additionally, she serves as a board member of Youth Peace Ambassadors Network (YPAN) and is a member of the Community of Trainer's of UNOY. She is active in PM, NFE and youth work with a focus on peacebuilding, non-violence, human rights, inclusion and youth empowerment through art. In the past, she has been involved with multiple CSO's locally and internationaly.
Kyriaki Pelagou
Volunteer Coordinator
Kyriaki Pelagou is a graduate of Political Science and holds a postgraduate degree in “European Youth, Education and Culture Policies”. She has participated in youth exchanges as a Youth Leader and in training projects. She has been involved in the coordination of local actions in volunteer groups and the planning and implementation of educational programs. Areas of interest and involvement are active citizenship, human rights and intercultural dialogue.
Dionisis Tonas
ESC House Manager Dionysis Tonas has been working for United Societies since June 2015. He is responsible for the volunteers' home, for their accommodation, food and any other issues that arise from their cohabitation.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025 Head of Project Management Department
Nafsika Karakomninou-Tsigkopoulou holds a degree in Politics and International Relations from the Department of Balkan, Slavic and Oriental Studies at the University of Macedonia and an MSc in War & Psychiatry from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King’s College London. She has several years of experience working with refugee and migrant communities at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), with a focus on community engagement. She is currently entering the fourth year of her training in Dramatherapy. Since October 2023, she has been working in the European Project Management Department of USB.
Christos Livaditis ESC Manager
Christos Livaditis is a graduate of the Department of Balkan, Slavic and Oriental Studies of the University of Macedonia and is pursuing a postgraduate degree in Business and Organizational Management. He has been managing and coordinating volunteer projects, actions and youth programs at USB since 2021, where he is responsible for the volunteer programs subdepartment, while he has also participated in programs and trainings within the framework of Erasmus+.
Panos Skepadianos
Press and Social Media Manager
Panos Skepadianos is a graduate of the Department of Business Administration. Since 2011 he has previous experience in youth work in various organisations as a volunteer, trainer, and in recent years he has been a volunteer coordinator for the Thessaloniki Pride organization. He’s also a graphic designer and the social media manager of USB since 2021.
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OUR TEAM
Nafsika Karakomninou-Tsigkopoulou
OUR TEAM
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Andreas Boutsoukis
Mobility & Outreach Officer Graduate of IEK Social Care, with 5 years of experience as a companion/caregiver for people with disabilities, and IEK Tourism Professions, with 11 years of experience in hotel reception in various regions of Greece. For the last 1.5 years he has been working as a Youth Worker, Mobility Officer at USB and Project Officer at AristoTales, while at the same time he’s responsible for rentals at Balkan Heart.
Evgenia Papadopoulou Assistant Finance Manager
Eugenia Papadopoulou is a graduate of the Department of Economics of the Democritus University of Thrace and has been a member of the U.S.B. team since 2025, where she deals with financial management and support for European programs. She is particularly interested in combining financial organization with the implementation of actions that have a substantial social impact.
Ourania Rapti ESC Mentor
Ourania Rapti was born and raised in Thessaloniki. She is a Psychologist (graduate of the Psychology Department of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki), Experiential Trainer in Social Work with training focused on antigypsyism as well as experiential and psychodynamic methods, and a Mentor of Roma women, young people and volunteers (Greek and foreign). From 2018 until today she supports the EVS & ESC volunteers of thess Network as a USB collaborator.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Mobility Officer
Graduate of Social Anthropology at the Department of Balkan Slavic and Oriental Studies of PAMAK. She has been involved in the design and implementation of youth programs at USB for the last 1 year as a facilitator and coordinator, as well as sending young people abroad within the framework of Erasmus+ and ESC, while she has also participated in programs and trainings herself.
Sofia Zangana Project Officer
Sofia Zangana graduated in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages, Translation and Interpreting from the Faculty of Humanities. She has completed an internship at the United Nations Regional Information Centre and has also been a member of the Project Management Department of YEU International in Brussels. Alongside her academic pursuits, she has been actively involved in volunteering since 2017, mainly within the field of youth participation.
Iordanis Katsapis
Finance Manager
Iordanis Katsapis studied Chemistry at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He is a professional truck driver and CEO of a transportation company. He has also worked in logistics and catering and, since February 2025, has been part of the Finance Department of United Societies of the Balkans (USB). Iordanis was elected Treasurer of Youth for Exchange and Understanding (YEU International) and has served on its Governing Board since July 2025, with a mandate until June 2027.
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OUR TEAM
Maria Tsoukala
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
The Project Management Department of United Societies of Balkans plays a central role in the successful implementation of a wide range of initiatives, focusing primarily on European programmes such as Erasmus+, but also on CERV, Creative Europe and other funding frameworks. With a strong commitment to empowering young people through international cooperation, cultural exchange and skills development, the department acts as a driving force behind the coordination and implementation of various projects. The main goal of the Project Management Department is to equip young people with knowledge, skills and experiences that go beyond borders and support them in becoming active and responsible citizens. The department creates connections and partnerships between young people from different backgrounds and gives them the opportunity to work together on meaningful projects that respond to common social challenges. Through its programmes, the department supports the development of a wide range of skills, including leadership, communication, teamwork, intercultural competence and project management, preparing participants for a dynamic and interconnected world. At the same time, it places strong emphasis on inclusion, ensuring that young people from different social, cultural and economic backgrounds, especially those with fewer opportunities, have access to prospects for personal and professional growth. In this way, the Project Management Department contributes to the broader social impact of USB, supporting youth empowerment, active citizenship, intercultural dialogue and the creation of a more inclusive society.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
PROJECT MANAGEMENT Head of PM Department Nafsika Karakomninou-Tsigkopoulou Project Manager Alexia Anastasiadi Project Officers Despoina Stoikou Sofia Zangana
Projects TUNE 2023-2025 - Network USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus+ KA2
TUNE – Transnational United Network in Europe The Transnational United Network in Europe (TUNE) was an EU-wide informal network of 21 youth organisations from 18 countries, coordinated by United Societies of Balkans (USB). The network worked to strengthen youth participation in democratic life by promoting inclusion, dialogue and evidence-based policymaking. In 2025, TUNE focused on empowering young people, especially those from marginalised or underrepresented backgrounds, including rural youth, minorities, NEETs and youth with disabilities. Through trainings, participatory research, local debates and international mobility actions, the network supported young people to shape their communities and contribute to democratic change at local, national and European levels. Vision: A just and sustainable future where empowered young people shaped democratic societies through participation, digital engagement and inclusive governance.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
TUNE 2025 | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
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. TUNI 2023 | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
ECA - European Citizenship Academy USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA3
The European Citizenship Academy was a European youth education project which aimed 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 was 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 nonformal, hybrid and gamified learning pathway, ECA developed a method that guided young people towards acquiring knowledge about the Union, appropriating their citizenship and finally becoming empowered as European citizens.
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Mission: To empower young people to participate in democratic life, amplify diverse voices and support bottom-up change at local, national and EU levels.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025 During the project, 300 young people were trained, 8 youth exchanges and local training of youth leaders were implemented and an e-learning platform about education about the EU in the youth field was created. As a European Union education project for young people, ECA aimed to equip young people with solid knowledge of the European Union and how it worked, and to give them the means to act as European citizens, knowingly and actively. ECA was fully in line with European policies and ambitions for young people. European Citizenship Academy (2024-2025) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
WE ARE HER
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2 Capacity Building in the field of Youth The project began in late 2023 and lasted for two years. The introduction of the WE ARE HER project aligned with the EU's Gender Action Plan, aiming to empower women, girls and young people globally. The project focused 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 included fostering cooperation among organizations across the Mediterranean, promoting gender equality through non-formal education methodologies and targeting disadvantaged youth for active participation. The project aligned with the EU Inclusion and Diversity Strategy, the European Year of Youth 2022 and the European Year of Skills 2023, aiming to develop digital skills among young people. We Are Her (2024-2025) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Nongovernmental organization
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.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
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. When scars (!) become art (2024-2026) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
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
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
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.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025 organizations and to promote online non-formal education in social inclusion, peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue and media literacy. VEBY: Virtual Exchanges for Balkan Youth (2023-2026) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
Digital Hoop USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2
Digital Hoop was a project that aimed to promote youth social entrepreneurship and the education of young people with fewer opportunities through non-formal education methods. The first objective of the project was to promote 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 sought to promote the employability of young people by enabling them to develop the hard and soft skills and knowledge needed to access better entrepreneurial or work opportunities. The third objective involved promoting the quality, innovation and recognition of youth work. The project also included communication campaigns that disseminated the results of the project and the outcomes achieved by the participants. The project mainly addressed the needs of disadvantaged people to secure a stable income. It supported youth access to entrepreneurship and aimed to reduce financial instability among young people with fewer opportunities by using training, mentoring and online support tools to help them become entrepreneurs. Furthermore, it supported the creation of businesses by providing long-term mentoring and support programmes, a training course and the online SBPPO.
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.
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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. http://up2youth.eu/ Up2Youth (2024-2027) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Nongovernmental organization
YAMNFL2
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2 Youth Peace Ambassadors of Non-Formal Learning - Phase 2 (YAMNFL 2) was 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 programme was to engage young people in non-formal learning (NFL) activities and to strengthen their ability to recognise the skills acquired through non-formal learning. Thus, it aimed to improve their skills through innovative methods that contributed to increasing their employability in the EU and the Western Balkans. The project sought to involve youth NGOs responsible for the development of nonformal learning activities, Civil Society Organisations working with disadvantaged groups with an emphasis on youth, public bodies responsible for designing specific policies and private enterprises aiming to enhance the recognition of non-formal learning skills by employers and young people. The beneficiaries of the action joined a 2-year journey to gain knowledge of best practices used in their local realities, explore the features of non-formal learning for increasing self-employability, collect inspiring successful stories, develop dedicated tools and methods and receive training to work directly in the field. YAMNFL 2 (2024-2025) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Nongovernmental organization
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
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.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Break the glass ceiling USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2
The “Break the Glass Ceiling” project was a targeted initiative dedicated to elevating the quality of youth services by emphasising volunteer projects within the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) and empowering young women. The project’s primary objective was to conduct comprehensive research, publish and disseminate findings and advocate for methods and best practices that improved youth work. Aligned with the Erasmus+ priorities, the initiative aimed to enhance youth services by addressing the unique experiences and challenges faced by young women. By advancing recognition and strengthening the effectiveness of youth work through research and publications, the project sought to improve both the quality and accessibility of youth services. Additionally, the widespread dissemination of findings was intended to strengthen the international visibility and influence of youth work. A core component of the research focused on analysing gender dynamics within the ESC. The study explored the socio-economic and political factors that contributed to higher participation rates of women compared to men and examined how these gender dynamics shaped the professional and personal growth of female volunteers. Furthermore, the project assessed the effectiveness of existing EU policies in fostering gender mainstreaming within the ESC and evaluated their impact on local communities. This initiative highlighted the importance of gender-sensitive approaches within youth services and aimed to expand the reach and impact of youth work in Europe. Break the Glass Ceiling | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Nongovernmental organization
(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, sought to revolutionise the accessibility of sign language content in various European countries. The primary goal was to respond to the needs of the target audience, including deaf students, their teachers and families.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
The project responded to the persistent demand for accessible sign language materials, particularly for beginners. By addressing this need, it strove to make signlanguage learning more straightforward and accessible. The project’s mobile application promoted 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. Spread the Sign (2022-2025) | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Nongovernmental organization
The European Experience (EYE)
Youth
Exchanges
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2
The EYE project promotes active youth engagement in environmental sustainability and climate action across Europe. It aims to provide young people with experiential learning opportunities that combine education, cooperation, creativity and gamified challenges, helping them better understand and respond to the objectives of the European Green Deal. Through its activities, the project encourages participants to reflect on their everyday choices, explore practical solutions for more sustainable living and take an active role in shaping greener communities. The project focuses on innovative approaches to youth exchanges, placing participants at the center of real-life and sustainable decision-making processes. Instead of only learning about environmental issues in theory, young people are invited to experience sustainability through practice, teamwork and interactive challenges. The main priorities include fostering youth commitment to climate action and sustainable lifestyles, developing green skills and environmental intelligence, promoting European identity and cross-border cooperation and innovating youth work and international mobility practices. At the same time, EYE seeks to share and transfer good practices in sustainable youth exchanges, strengthen the capacity of youth organisations and create spaces for cooperation and dialogue between young people, youth workers and policymakers. Through this approach, the project contributes not only to individual learning, but also to wider changes in how youth organisations plan and implement international activities in line with climate and sustainability priorities. EYE | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
The project planned to produce new sign language content for beginners, particularly to support hearing teachers and families who lacked sign language knowledge. This initiative aimed 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.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
GivEUvoice
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus+ KA3 Grounded in the belief that youth participation is essential for vibrant democracies, the GivEUvoice project aligns with EU strategies to empower young citizens and bridge the core-periphery divide. Its mission is to empower young people from Europe’s rural and peri-urban areas, giving them a voice and fostering political participation through the creation of physical and digital youth spaces. It envisions building a more inclusive Europe where every young person can actively participate in civic life, strengthening the connection between youth, local communities, and the EU. GivEUvoice addresses youth disengagement in peripheral areas by creating a European Digital Youth Network, a roadmap for physical youth spaces, and policy recommendations that promote youth civic participation. GivEUvoice | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
ROLES
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus+ KA2 Capacity Building Youth
The ROLES (Art-Driven Capacity Building for Mental Health De-stigmatisation) project is implemented as an Erasmus+ Capacity Building initiative in the field of Youth, bringing together partners from EU countries and the Western Balkans region under the coordination of United Societies of Balkans (USB). The project aims to strengthen the capacities of youth workers, trainers, facilitators and non-formal education professionals in addressing mental health challenges through arts-based and theatre-based methodologies. Through international mobility activities, local workshops, artistic interventions and awareness-raising actions, ROLES promotes mental health awareness, reduces stigma and discrimination and encourages emotional expression and social inclusion. Particular emphasis is placed on creating safe and supportive environments for young people, including those with fewer opportunities, while fostering a network of youth professionals equipped with innovative tools to address mental health issues in their communities. ROLES | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025 USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2
The Youth Social Act project promotes alternative forms of active social and civic youth participation in democratic life. The project aims to promote alternative forms of active social and civic youth participation in democratic life, at local level, by supporting youth initiatives co-designed, co-created and implemented by young people for young people. The six main priorities include youth diversity, equality, equity and inclusion, involvement in decision-making processes, youth social inclusion and integration, sustainable green societies and youth, healthy youth lifestyles, as well as cultural and creative youth diverse expressions. The main objective is to provide opportunities for training, learning and education, as well as networking with peers and exchanging ideas and views on the issues during the transnational training. Our aim is to successfully set-up and operate local Youth Ambassadors Programmes for young people and youth workers/volunteers, providing specific practical non-formal educational and learning opportunities and tools. Lastly, Youth Social Act aims to share and transfer good practices, expertise, know-how and knowledge on social and civic youth participation. Youth Social Act | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non-governmental organization
Safe Youth Space USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus+ KA2
The Safe Youth Space project is developed to address social isolation, mental health challenges and declining youth engagement in Poland, Greece and Italy. The project aims to create safe, inclusive and supportive environments where young people can strengthen their skills, confidence and sense of belonging, while enhancing the capacities of youth workers and youth organisations. Through trainings, workshops, study visits, internships, community-based activities and youth-led initiatives, the project promotes active participation, social inclusion and democratic values. Particular emphasis is placed on strengthening local partnerships, supporting youth councils and fostering sustainable community engagement through innovative and holistic approaches to youth empowerment and social cohesion. Safe Youth Space | Organization | United Societies of Balkans | Non- governmental organization
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Youth Social Act
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Key activity LaNomad House Festival 2 Thessaloniki, Greece March 2025
La Nomad House Festival 2 was implemented at Labattoir, organised by USB in cooperation with the Municipality of Thessaloniki and funded by the Ministry of Culture. Under the theme “Woman & Migration,” the festival brought together international and local artists to explore themes of migration, identity, women’s experiences and environmental awareness through contemporary performing arts. The central artistic production, Les Filles de la Mer by Artistique Théâtre (Paris), was presented over three days and engaged approximately 200 spectators through immersive performances and post-show discussions. In parallel, seven artistic workshops involving 82 participants were implemented, focusing on theatre, movement and creative expression. The festival strengthened intercultural dialogue, promoted community engagement through the arts and enhanced Thessaloniki’s visibility as a hub for contemporary European cultural cooperation.
Highlights of 2025 GivEUvoice: Kick off meeting, Poland, January 2025 WE ARE HER: Youth Exchange, Thessaloniki, Greece, January 2025 Digital Hoop: Transnational Project Meeting, Alicante, Spain, January 2025 Youth Social Act: Launch, January 2025 Up2youth: Study Visit, Boulogne, France, March 2025 EU Youth Stakeholders: Stakeholders Group Meeting, Brussels, Belgium, March 2025 WE ARE HER: Youth Exchange, Albania, April 2025 When Scars Become Art: Seminar, N. Macedonia, April 2025 Break the Glass Ceiling: Seminar, Romania, April 2025 Up2youth: Transnational Project Meeting, Berlin, Germany, May 2025 YAMNFL2: Study Visit, Thessaloniki, Greece, May 2025 WE ARE HER: Transnational Project Meeting, Egypt, May 2025 ECA: Youth Exchange, N. Macedonia, June 2025 Up2youth: Study Visit, Spain, June 2025 Break the Glass Ceiling: Transnational Project Meeting, Izmir, Turkey, July 2025 ECA: Youth Exchange, Thessaloniki, Greece, July-August 2025 Forgotten Stars: “Diki He Na Bister”, Krakow, Poland, August 2025 ECA: Youth Exchange, Sweden, August 2025 Youth Social Act: Transnational Training, Cyprus, September 2025 Up2youth: Transnational Project Meeting, Greece, October 2025
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
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Up2youth: Study Visit, Greece, October 2025 WE ARE HER: Final Meeting, Brussels, Belgium, October 2025 YAMNFL2: Final Transnational Project Meeting, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, November 2025 GivEUvoice: Youth Exchange and Transnational Project Meeting, Bastia France, November 2025 ECA: Final Transnational Project Meeting, November 2025 LEMON: Network’s Meeting, November 2025 TUNE: General Assembly, December 2025 Break the Glass Ceiling: Final Event-Volunteer’s Day, Thessaloniki, Greece December 2025
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Collaboration with 29 countries
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
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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, volunteering projects in Stratoni and Arnaia, with the support of local partner AristoTales and co-coordinates the local volunteering team in Thessaloniki. It also undertook organisation and hosting of VET placements in partners in the city. The department also supports the visibility of USB through info days, organisation of local campaigns and participation in actions and also enhances the networking and partnership expansion of the organisation,on a local and international level, through participation in networking events and by organising relevant activities in Greece.
VOLUNTEER
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
VOLUNTEER Coordinator Christian Cibba Current Staff Christos Leivaditis, Kiriaki Pelagou, Dionisis Tonas External collaborators Urania Rapti Marianna Karava (Halkidiki) Panagiotis Tasiopoulos (Halkidiki) During 2025, USB volunteer department implemented a wide range of local activities in these areas, welcoming more than 100 international and in-country volunteers in diverse actions, as well as managed big-scale volunteering projects such as the Volunteering Teams in High Priority Areas project “IN MEDIA RESC”. The year also brought a new chapter for the department’s and organisation’s activities, as it got approved the first ESC Humanitarian Aid project of USB, “CRECER”, that will see a total of 12 volunteers from Europe deployed in long-term volunteering activities in Peru and Ecuador in the following years. On local level, the activities of the department saw collaboration in ESC activities with 8 hosting partners: Argo Recovery Cooperative, Irida Women’s Center, Faros tou Kosmou, Edu Act, Schedia stin Poli, Ecological Movement of Thessaloniki, Action Art, AristoTales (Aristotelis Municipality, Halkidiki). Volunteers hosted under the general coordination and management of the department at the hosting partners, concerned long-term, short-term and volunteering teams activities running throughout the year, while a range of collaborative actions and events took place in this frame as well.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
In Media Resc
The project “IN MEDIA RESC”, managed by USB and a consortium of 10 international and local hosting partners, involved 84 participants in solidarity activities in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki, equipping them with skills for the use of media for social activism and the promotion of societal values and organisation of diverse volunteering activities to support social groups with obstacles, such as: -Youth and people in social reintegration and promotion of sustainability with Argo -Supporting women with obstacles through daily support for Irida Women’s Center -Activities and support for children and youth of the Roma community with Faros tou Kosmou -Activities in rural communities and support for youth facing geographical marginalization in Aristotelis Municipality. Furthermore, collaboration with local hosting partners Argo and Irida Women’s Center has been crucially strengthened through volunteer groups that were involved in their work. Year also saw the transition and development of the volunteering activities of AristoTales, who assumed the role of formal hosting organisation for the first time, continuing through the next years.
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VOLUNTEER
Key activities
VOLUNTEER
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Highlights of 2025 Crucial activities implemented as part of “IN MEDIA RESC”, concerned a series of open actions in both areas reaching youth and local communities, in the form of thematic weeks, which included: “Europe Week” in May 2025, open actions to promote volunteering and European Identity. “Youth Skills Week” in July 2025, with a series of collaborative workshops to boost youth skills, with special focus on media competences and professional development. “Green Week” in September 2025, support the realisation of Green Wave Festival”. “Volunteer Week” in December 2025, with the implementation of different types of volunteering actions (urban cleanup, blood donation, Stds awareness) and culminating on the organisation of the Volunteer Day, with the participation of 17 local partner organisations, which has been a key activity for the year. Youth workshops and event in August, in Aristotelis Municipality, enhancing visibility and engagement in the area.
Local Activities Street action for the International Day for the Elimination of violence against women - “IN MEDIA RESC” Participation Job Festival by Skywalker Participation at the Job Festival by Odyssea Youth Center Co-organizing a workshop with Irida Womens Center on genderbiased violence “Recognizing Gender - Based Violence and standing with Survivors” - IN MEDIA RESC Open Workshop Freestyle dance Street Cleaning action in collaboration with The Cleaningans in Thessaloniki (Ano Poli) Christmas Bazaar (with all proceeds going to the Stray Planet - animal shelter) Art Therapy workshops Voluntary blood donation campaign in collaboration with Life Pulse, Theageneion Hospital in Alexandria Innovation Zone) Distributing condoms/street work for Checkpoint Supporting and participating at the Greenwave Thessaloniki 2025 Swap Event Street Cigarette Cleaning in the 2nd Municipal Community of the Municipality of Thessaloniki Οffline Meet -up Book club Photo Exhibition “ We sleep together , we dream alone”
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
35
VOLUNTEER
Participating at Thessaloniki Pride 2025 Europe Day - Cycling action 3 Crochet Workshops Participation at Plastira Project with an Info point Participation at the Parathinoupoli festival Beach cleaning at Perea Painting Workshop - Fresco Painting Εurogames - EURODESK “Time to Move” campaign Human Library Participation at the “Alexander the Great” marathon Anti-Racism Pic Nic Flowers Crowns workshop for International Women's Day Open Mic for international Women's Day Open Mic - Carnival edition Tandem 2000s edition Euro- Tandem Tandem - Spanish- Catalan edition Tandem Italian Version Participation and support in the Fan Day Race Social Kitchen with ODYSSEA YOUTH CENTER Participation in the naked cycling Film screening for environmental awareness Film Screening for holocaust memorial day Film Screening for International Women's Day Stratoni Carnival participation Participation at the “Celebrating school” event organised by the municipality of Ampelokipoi-Menemeni “Mind the Mind” campaign -(raising awareness on mental health issues.)
VOLUNTEER
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
VOLUNTEER
Fields of activity
Youth media/ Media production
Work with children
Non-formal education
Mental Health Awareness
Environmental Issues
Art and narrative art/storytelling
Integration and everyday needs of marginalized groups
LGBTQI+ rights
Women empowerment
European citizenship and identity
Education
Photography
Support in the implementation of festivals
Support for small & rural communities
Sports and well-being
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VOLUNTEER
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Volunteer department statistics 2025 23 35
Long-term
Short-term 10
Volunteering Teams
VET placements 84
Nationalities of Participants
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Facebook Total Engagement
Total Views
280
32.8k
7%
+45.7% Total Visits
Page New Likes
77
3.3k
8.3%
25.5%
Instagram Total Reach
Total Engagement
2.3k
37.7k
100%
52,4% Total Visits
Page New Follows
204
6.3k
29.25%
88,1%
@balkanhotspot
39
VOLUNTEER
Balkan Hotspot Social Media
VOLUNTEER
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
40
ACTIVITY REPORT 2024
VOLUNTEER
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MOBILITY
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 and mentoring of participants in KA1 projects, the coordination and implementation of hosting mobilities in Thessaloniki, and the dissemination of project activities by implementing local actions. Communication and partnership building among youth organisations in Erasmus+ partner countries are also key responsibilities 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
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
MOBILITY Mobility & Outreach Officer Andreas Boutsoukis Mobility Officer Maria Tsoukala Through United Societies of Balkans, more than 100 young people had the opportunity to participate and enhance their skills in projects all around Europe during the year of 2025.
E+ Youth Exchange
E+ Training
EGIN Youth Exchange Sending
16
Hosting
11
Countries of collaboration
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
MOBILITY
Fields of action
European Citizenship
Non-formal education
Community Building
Human Rights
Arts and Culture
Intercultural dialogue
Social Inclusion
Mental Health
Entrepreneurship
Body Positivity
Digital Skills
Personal Growth
Sports
Peace
Environmental Issues
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MOBILITY
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Participants’ Experiences “A sky full of stars”, Germany “Throughout the project, we gained valuable knowledge as a team, participated in enjoyable activities, and strengthened our sense of collaboration.”
“Art for Earth”, France “Overall, it was an unforgettable experience, through which we not only received equipment and knowledge, through nonformal learning, but we also developed on a personal level!” “You Save”, Spain “This experience taught us that volunteering is more than just giving — it’s about sharing, listening, respecting, and growing. It builds bridges between cultures, fosters empathy, and helps young people discover the power of working together for a common purpose.”
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
MOBILITY
“PRISM 2.0”, Croatia “The PRISM 2.0 program will remain etched in my memory as an unforgettable experience both for the knowledge I received and the people I met.”
Digital Wellness, Romania “If you're thinking about experiencing something similar, don't hesitate! Erasmus+ means experiences, friendships, and open horizons.”
“We are her” Albania “I am happy about the work we did within the framework of the program. I became more informed about an issue that I thought I already knew enough about, but I realized that the issue of racial discrimination and stereotypes is a multifaceted issue, with deep roots in every society.”
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SOCIAL MEDIA
The Social Media and Press Department oversees the organization's digital communication and public visibility. It is responsible for developing and maintaining the organization's presence across social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and the official website. Working closely with all departments, the team transforms project updates and organizational activities into engaging digital content, produces website articles, and creates a wide range of promotional materials, such as posters, leaflets, banners, and other communication assets that support the organization's outreach and dissemination efforts.
SOCIAL MEDIA
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
SOCIAL MEDIA Press Officer Panos Skepadianos
Facebook Content Interactions
Total Views
4899
1.1m
106.2%
* Total Visits
Page New Likes
74.431 90.6%
544
33.82%
Instagram Content Interactions
Total Reach
10.975
168.5k
24.99%%
210.7% Total Visits
Page New Follows
22.324 246.1%
818
351.93%
*Meta did not calculate or store that metric for data before 2025.
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ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Impressions
Unique Visitors
9.631
437
157.4%
34.38% Page New Follows
205
26.8%
Google Business Website clicks from your business profile
Unique Visitors from all sources
395
6.350
77.47%.
5.64%. Directions asked
Calls received
944
78
9.26%
26.92%
Google Search from Mobile
2666 (42%) Google Search from Desktop
3684 (58%) 51
SOCIAL MEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Google Search Keys 10.4%
6.9%
40.4%
42.3% United Societies of Balkans
ngo thessaloniki
ΜΚΟ θεσσαλονίκη
Other
@unitedsocietiesofbalkans @usbngo
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FINANCE DEPARTMENT
The Finance Department is responsible for the financial management of the organisation, ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with national legislation and donor requirements. It oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting coordination, and the preparation of financial reports, while supporting the implementation of European and national funded projects. The department also manages payroll processes, monitors cash flow and organisational resources, and coordinates tax and statutory obligations in cooperation with external accountants. Through effective financial monitoring and internal controls, it contributes to the sustainable and efficient operation of the organisation.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
FINANCE DEPARTMENT Head of Department Christina Tourlakidou Finance Manager Christina Tourlakidou Finance assistant Iordanis Katsapis INCOME EU & National Grants
1685825
Other Income
4067,56
Membership Fees
663,1
Donations
1000,00
Total Income
1691555,66
Opening Balance (Previous Year)
174042,89
EXPENSES Personnel Costs
254705,69
Project Implementation Costs
1229236,98
Organisational Costs
9915,16
Income Tax
800
Total Expenditure
1494657,83
Closing Balance (Funds Carried Forward)
936604,04
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NETWORKS
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
Members of
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LOOKING AHEAD
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
LOOKING AHEAD 2026 marks the beginning of a new chapter for United Societies of Balkans. Building on more than 15 years of experience, USB enters the new period with a renewed Strategic Plan for 2026–2028. The new strategy aims not only to expand our activities, but to strengthen the organisation itself and ensure that our work continues to respond meaningfully to a rapidly changing social environment. A significant part of this new chapter is our transition to new offices at Monastiriou 4, Thessaloniki, within the city’s 2nd Municipal Community. More than simply a change of premises, we see this move as an opportunity to strengthen our connection with the surrounding neighbourhoods and develop a more locally rooted approach. The 2nd Community will become an important field for community-building initiatives, participatory activities and stronger cooperation with residents, schools, informal groups and institutions. At the same time, mental health and psychosocial wellbeing will become an increasingly important dimension of USB’s work. During 2026, our focus will be on understanding the needs of young people, building partnerships with specialised mental health organisations and professionals, strengthening the capacities of our team and developing pilot awareness and support activities. Our longer-term ambition is to progressively integrate mental wellbeing across our programmes and community interventions. Internally, the coming period will also be one of reorganisation, team development and institutional strengthening. We aim to review the way we work together, clarify roles and responsibilities, improve internal communication and knowledge sharing, and develop or update organisational policies, procedures and governance tools. This process will help ensure that USB remains transparent, resilient and professionally organised while adapting its work to new realities and emerging social needs. As we move forward, our priority is therefore not growth for its own sake, but stronger impact, deeper local connections and greater organisational resilience. We want to remain open to new ideas, partnerships and ways of working while keeping people, participation, inclusion and community at the centre of everything we do.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ACTIVITY REPORT 2025
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The work of United Societies of Balkans throughout 2025 was made possible through the trust, cooperation and contribution of many people, especially our staff, institutions and communities. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the organisations and institutions that supported our work during the year, including the Youth and Lifelong Learning Foundation (INEDIVIM), the Anna-Lindh Foundation, the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, EGIN, the German-Greek Fund for the Future through the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany, and the European Commission. We are also grateful for our cooperation with local authorities and, in particular, the Municipality of Aristotelis, Municipality of Oreokastro, Municipality of Ampelokipoi-Menemeni and Municipality of KordelioEvosmos, as well as the many public institutions and local actors that have opened spaces for dialogue, participation and collaboration. Our appreciation extends to our European and international partners, hosting organisations, trainers, mentors, external collaborators and professionals who contributed their expertise, time and ideas throughout the year. Above all, we would like to thank our volunteers and participants. Their energy, curiosity, creativity and willingness to engage are what give meaning to our programmes and turn projects into real human experiences and connections. We also want to recognise those whose contribution is not always visible in reports or statistics: the people who support our work behind the scenes, offer advice, solve problems, open doors and remain present when needed. We are equally grateful to former colleagues and collaborators who may no longer be part of USB’s everyday work, but whose contribution has helped shape the organisation and continues to be reflected in what we do today. Finally, we thank the local communities that welcome us, work with us and allow us to learn from them. USB’s work is built through relationships, and every achievement presented in this report is, in one way or another, the result of collective effort. To everyone who has been part of this journey — visibly or quietly, recently or over many years — thank you.
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info@usbngo.gr www.usbngo.gr