Over the past fifteen years, United Societies of Balkans (USB) has firmly committed to empowering youth and fostering intercultural dialogue at local, national, and international levels. Established in Thessaloniki in 2008 by a dynamic group of socially conscious young individuals, USB was driven by a shared vision to address the social challenges faced by young people in their societies. Our organisation has since grown into a source of inspiration toward its goals.
Throughout the years, we have implemented actions and activities for young people in collaboration with them, based on their needs Our efforts have been centred on supporting, empowering, and activating youth to partake in decisionmaking processes and initiatives. We have tirelessly promoted the values of voluntarism, active citizenship, and democracy, providing mentorship and life coaching to young people to help them create meaningful life plans Our work has consistently aimed at promoting and respecting human rights, social integration, solidarity, and diversity through innovative use of new media and non-formal education activities.
However, this success wouldn’t have been possible without the beating heart of our organisation: our staff, volunteers, interns, partners, friends, and supporters. Therefore, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation for their dedication to our work and congratulate them on their successes and commitment. Their dedication enables us toaddress some of society’s most pressing issues while remaining mindful of the challenges ahead Together, I am confident that we can achieve great things and continue to make a significant impact
In the present report, we are delighted to share the accomplishments of the past year. 2023 has been a testament to USB’s dedication to improving the lives of young people and building a more equitable and inclusive society for all. Our Activity Report celebrates our achievements and invites you to join us in our ongoing mission. 2023 has been a significant year for all of us, with a larger number of projects, more beneficiaries of our work, and a greater impact on society.
We have the power to create a future where communities are inclusive, sustainable, and every individual feels empowered and respected, so let’s continue this into 2024
Aris Paraschou, President of USB
UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS
United Societies of Balkans (USB) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Thessaloniki, Greece, working in the fields of youth, human rights and intercultural dialogue. It was founded in 2008 by a group of active young people who wanted to address the social problems of youth in the Balkans and Eastern Europe. The vision and goal of the organization is to promote youth ownership, participation in economic and political life, youth mobility, volunteering and human rights. The key areas of the organization’s activities concern the defense of human rights and intercultural dialogue, the organization of youth-related projects such as youth exchanges and training courses that can bring together young people from the Balkans and Europe, and the organization of local interventions, campaigns, research, seminars and multimedia productions. It envisions a global and inclusive society where citizens are equally empowered to contribute to shaping a world with less prejudice, discrimination and other forms of injustice.
Vision
United Societies of Balkans (USB) envisions a global and inclusive society where youth are empowered to actively participate in shaping a world free from prejudice, discrimination, and injustice. We aspire to create a future where young people are integral to the economic and political life of their communities, contributing to the promotion of human rights, intercultural dialogue, and social harmony across the Balkans and Eastern Europe
Strategy
To achieve this vision, USB has developed a comprehensive strategy centered around the following key areas:
Empowerment through Education and Training
Youth Exchanges and Training Courses to enhance intercultural understanding, leadership skills, and global citizenship
Non-Formal Educational programs that focus on human rights, democracy, and active citizenship.
Fostering Youth Mobility and Volunteering
Youth Mobility Programs through participation in international programs such as Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps.
Volunteering Initiatives that allow young people to contribute to their communities and gain valuable experience
Local Interventions and Community Engagement
Local Projects that address the specific needs of communities in Thessaloniki and the broader region, focusing on social inclusion and community development
Collaborations and Partnerships with local, national, and international organizations creating a network of support for youth initiatives.
Utilizing Multimedia for Social Change
Media Productions including documentaries, podcasts, and social media campaigns, to highlight and address social issues.
Social Media Platforms to engage with a wider audience and promote the organization’s activities and impact.
Inclusive and Sustainable Green Europe
Tailor-made projects and campaigns to raise awareness on environmental issues
Sustainability through diversified funding sources and partnerships
DEPARTMENTS OF THE ORGANIZATION
USB operates under a functional organizational structure, organized into distinct departments based on areas of expertise, grouping employees by specialty, skill, or related roles. This structure allows employees with specialized skills to work more quickly and efficiently, leading to greater productivity. Within each team, experienced managers have the opportunity to impart their skills to team members, resulting in an enhanced skill set for all involved. The hierarchical nature of this functional structure clarifies the specific roles and responsibilities of each person within a department. Additionally, departments collaborate with each other to transfer knowledge and skills, achieving effective and circular communication.
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 ground-breaking 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.
Mobility Department
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.
Through the United Societies of Balkans, more than 200 young people had the opportunity to participate and enhance their skills in projects all around Europe during the year of 2023.
Volunteers’ Department
The Volunteer’s Department is responsible for the implementation of volunteer projects and local actions in Greece. Activities include projects funded by the European Solidarity Corps Program (ESC) and initiatives carried out by the local pool of volunteers. USB has a Lead- Quality Label at ESC and also coordinates projects and volunteers for a local network of ten (10) organizations that have a Hosting Quality Label.
The volunteering department of USB manages the volunteering activities of the organisation on a local and international level Its main function concerns the management of the organisation’s diverse ESC activities (long-term, short-term, volunteering teams) that USB hosts in Greece, as well as VET and in the comanagement of the local volunteer team.
The department coordinates the ESC hosting project of USB, “Balkan Hotspot”. In addition, it monitors and manages the local hosting partners network of USB, which sees the involvement of ESC volunteers in the activities of such organisations as: Irida Women’s Center, Faros tou Kosmou, Action Art, Schedia stin Poli, Thessaloniki Pride, Ecological Movement of Thessaloniki, EduAct and Argo In addition, the department is responsible for the implementation of Volunteering Teams in High Priority Areas (EACEA funded), in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki
Balkan Hotspot
Balkan Hotspot, an innovative media lab department, thrives on a dynamic range of activities aimed at engaging and connecting with its audience. At the forefront of its operations is a vibrant online blogging community that explores diverse topics and perspectives. Complementing this, the project releases the captivating Balkan Beats magazine every two months, offering readers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Balkan culture. The volunteers of European Solidarity Corps (ESC) through the project’s radio and podcast initiatives, providing a platform for discussions, interviews, and unique narratives. Social media serves as the virtual nexus where the project interacts with its community, sharing insights, updates, and fostering dialogue.
Adding a visual dimension, the department is dedicated to crafting compelling video and photography content, capturing the essence of the Balkans in vivid detail. Volunteers, the lifeblood of Balkan Hotspot, passionately contribute their creativity and expertise to curate material that resonates across the Balkan Hotspot Platforms.
Balkan Heart
Balkan Heart stands as a significant project a decade after the establishment of USB. This dedicated space has evolved into a multifaceted hub that plays a pivotal role in fostering connection, learning, and collaboration.
Balkan Heart is a creative multipurpose space consisting of 2 technologically equipped rooms, located in the office of the United Societies of Balkans in the center of Thessaloniki Balkan Heart’s spaces are used for meetings, seminars, workshops, trainings and events in general, mainly focusing on educational, cultural and creative/artistic topics As the rooms are part of the organization’s office facilities, they are also used by the volunteers as a working space, as well as by the office staff
At its core, Balkan Heart has become a dynamic venue open for lease, providing a welcoming and adaptable environment for individuals and organizations seeking a space to rent and utilize for a myriad of purposes Whether it’s hosting events, workshops, or meetings, Balkan Heart offers a versatile setting that accommodates diverse needs, creating a vibrant atmosphere conducive to productivity and creativity.
Social Media
The Social Media (or Press) department, is responsible for managing and monitoring the various social media platforms of the organization This includes platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn as well as the oranigsation’s website Its main function is to use material from the various activities run by the organisation’s other departments and create original content for social media, upload articles on the website and design all advertising and promoting material such as leaflets, posters and other products.
Finance
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.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
FROM “DEALING WITH POPULAR MYTHS” PROJECT MEETING
MARCH 17, 2023
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Director and Project Manager
Yannis Tsilsou
Head of PM Department
Elina Azopoulou
Project Manager
Foteini Vakitsidou
Project Manager Assistant
Dimitris Gavridis
Nefeli Tsakopoulou
Project Officer
Nafsika Karakomninou-Tsigkopoulou
Local Coordinator/Trainer/Educational Advisor in Stratoni
Photini Karamouzi
Projects
4OneAnother
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
Between January and June 2019, 8,236 children arrived in Greece, Spain, Italy, and Bulgaria, with 2,794 (34%) being unaccompanied or separated children (UASC). In 2019, around 33,000 children, including 5,000 unaccompanied ones, reached the EU’s borders. Greece, Italy, and Spain received more children, emphasizing the need for better reception systems, especially for vulnerable UASC.
Professionals in reception centers, like cultural mediators and social workers, play a vital role in supporting UASC’s integration. They require improved skills to address legal, administrative, psychosocial, and educational challenges To bridge these gaps, a training program is being developed to empower these professionals and promote UASC’s inclusion in society
EasyEU
USB Role: Partner Fund: CERV
The EASY-EU project aims 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 plans to engage 1200 participants, striving for gender balance It supports e-democracy and digital literacy as vital for active citizenship, aligning with EU priorities. The initiative seeks 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 aims to promote holistic sports education for people of all ages. Inspired by ancient Greek principles of holistic human development, the project provides education and guidance on various aspects of healthy living
This includes:
-Physical Education: Delivered by a physiotherapist and personal trainer.
-Nutrition Education: Guided by a dietitian to help individuals choose suitable diets for sports and daily life.
-Lifestyle Change: Supported by a coach to establish healthier habits
By offering accessible professional education, we aim to prevent social issues such as obesity, poor posture, post-pandemic depression, social isolation, and substance abuse in our community Our project takes a holistic approach to physical and mental well-being, promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle in society
EMBRACE
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2
Environmental Mobility by Raising Awareness on Changing our Earth (EMBRACE) is a two-year Erasmus+ KA2 project funded Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) in order to provide a non-formal environmental education and empower young people to be environmentally active
The seven partner organizations located in France, Peru, Greece, India, Italy, Vietnam and Serbia work together to deliver an innovative and effective approach to support the new EU youth strategy, prioritizing youth concern for environmental protection by increasing their involvement in sustainable programs.
Footbal for All
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2
Football is a dynamic and inclusive sport in our society For three years, the United Societies of Balkans have been organizing open football events to promote physical activity and inclusion among young people from diverse backgrounds, including refugees. Now, we’re taking this initiative to the next level with the “Football for All” project
This project aims to share our successful methodology on using sports for education and social inclusion internationally. Six partner organizations collaborate over 18 months to provide free monthly football activities for local young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds like refugees, immigrants, Roma, or NEETs
We also strengthen local and international networks among NGOs, sports organizations, and others to promote social inclusion, solidarity, healthy lifestyles, and physical activity.
FOOTBAL FOR ALLEU
El Poder del Filandón
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
The “El poder del Filandón / the power of Filandón” program aims to reignite reading interest among young people and children. It emphasizes on:
● Local and European actions promoting reading for learning, integration, and social change
● Reading as a personal joy to prevent exclusion and academic challenges.
● EU’s linguistic diversity and multilingualism
● Training for reading promotion professionals. Goals include:
● Developing “HE EUROPEAN FILANDÓN” educational material.
● Promoting lifelong learning through reading
● Inclusive reading campaigns for marginalized groups.
● Establishing a network for reading promotion
● Sharing innovative youth practices across Europe.
● Integrating reading, writing, and communication skills in education
● Empowering youth for social change through reading.
● Equipping professionals for effective reading promotion
● Encouraging public reading and storytelling for youth.
● Increasing European youth interest in reading
● Creating participation opportunities for European youth
Interaging
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
The European project “Interaging”(Intergenerational Learning), funded by the Italian National Agency under the Erasmus+ program in the adult education sector The “Interaging” project highlights the importance of intergenerational learning and international cooperation in advancing adult education across Europe
The training sessions employed an intergenerational approach, focusing on equipping agencies with the skills and knowledge required for the effective implementation of Erasmus+ programs Participants included organizations from Greece, Italy, and Croatia, who had the opportunity to meet, network, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations within the Erasmus+ framework.
Hidden Dimensions
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
Between 2021 and 2023, USB joined Erasmus+ project “Hidden Dimensions” led by Hungary’s Egyuettható Egyesuelet organization. The project tackled underrepresentation of disabled youth in Erasmus+ by researching participation in Greece, Hungary, and Romania. This involved data collection, surveys, and stakeholder interviews The project assessed existing programs to suggest policy enhancements for better inclusion and engagement of disabled youth in Erasmus+
Integration101
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2
The “Integration 101” Erasmus+ project involves partners from GR, RO, IE, TR, HU, and IT. Spanning 24 months, it focuses on using grassroots sports and education to integrate refugees. Throughout the project a “Handbook” “Guide” and “MOOC” for professionals and stakeholders working with young third country nationals are created. The project aims to ensure equal sports access, upgrade youth work, and enhance immigrant integration. Activities include meetings, manuals, a MOOC, and a campaign during the European Week of Sport.
GoThen
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
International volunteering projects through the European Solidarity Corps come with an important component of community involvement and development. Gothen’s initiative stems from the need to support both the new organizations diving into the information, procedures about the solidarity corps activities, and the volunteers to fulfill their needs.
The aim is to equip the volunteers with a medium to study and elevate their conception and skills in the field A process that leads to more informed and capable volunteers ensuring that they have a greater and more effective contribution to the mission of organizations they are involved in and an enhanced positive impact in society.
Moreover, it elevates the capacity of organizations to engage and connect with volunteers sharing with them information about their work and actions as well as how they can get involved in their workings.
Make a Path
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
This project unites youth workers and teachers to develop methods for facilitating the integration of young immigrants. We aim to share good practices, existing methods, and useful activities in the field of immigrant integration.
Our goal is to provide young immigrants and their families with tools for better integration into new cities and countries Youth workers and teachers acquire knowledge and skills to organize activities that ease integration, promote social connections, and support access to education or employment
To further assist immigrants, we create an informative brochure covering essential information for newcomers, including residence registration, school enrollment, financial aid, language learning opportunities, healthcare access, and more. The brochure also includes information tailored to young people, promoting better inclusion in society by highlighting places to socialize, activities, and support resources.
Life Champions
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
Project is envisaged as a 24-month activity aimed at the reinforcement of positive social values and principles, by using the specific setting for their dissemination - sports field, the specific target group for promoting themfootball trainers and specific methods involved - non-formal education in and through sports
13 partners representing 4 sectors (sports, youth, research and education), from 7 European countries gathered to contribute in promoting the concept of education in/through sport, perceiving it as the most powerful channel in dissemination of diverse messages, and starting from the fact that role of trainers as educators and pedagogues needs to be revitalized, not only for the sake of sports but also for the entire society.
Nomad House
USB Role: Partner Fund: Creative Europe
La Nomad House is an international cultural project initiated and supported by the Compagnie des Nouveaux Disparus. It is a project carried out in the framework of the Europe Creative programme in partnership with six countries.
Like a true European itinerant cultural center, La Nomad House is a process of creation and artistic dissemination and scientific research on the issue of migration. In Europe, it is urgent to make this cry of injustice heard, which resonates more than ever within our societies
La Nomad House consists of multidisciplinary artistic workshops, a theatrical creation and various cultural activities such as a travelling exhibition and conference-debates led by a team of academics who relate the trajectories and life stories of migrants who have arrived on the European continent. All the countries participating in this project have the common will to engage in a deep reflection on the issue of migration through a multidisciplinary artistic process.
La Nomad House wishes to give a voice to migrants and militant associations by disseminating these life stories through this itinerant cultural centre and to succeed in changing mentalities.
My city through time
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
The main objective the project wants to achieve is to contribute to the recognition and improvement of youth work and its practices and to strengthen the link between youth work and civic and historic education
The partners aim to raise awareness among young people, promote active citizenship, contribute to preventing radicalization, attraction to populism and nationalism, support democratization processes and promote European values. Participating partners are from Croatia, Greece, Spain, Austria, Italy, Germany, Slovenia
Music Connects Schools in Europe
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2
Music Connects Schools in Europe or M.U.S.E. aims to highlight contemporary cultural creation expressed by students from different countries through participation in the music festival of Xanthi “Polis Oneiron” which is considered central to the transmission of cultural heritage and its pursuit The project aims to achieve tangible and intangible results and interpret how they are intertwined in terms of cultural heritage, striving to achieve a far-reaching effect in terms of acquired musical knowledge, motivation, positive psychological impact and social considerations among the target groups
REST _ ART
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2
The REST ART is an innovative project that aims to promote environmental awareness through the power of art. Our goal is to create meaningful and lasting change by engaging the public and key stakeholders in preserving our environment. By combining esthetic practices with ecological activism, REST ART aims to raise awareness, sensitize communities, and prevent harmful attitudes towards the environment. Through planned mobilities and a comparative approach, we shed light on the management of plastic waste and promote positive action at the community level. The project is an collaboration of 7 organizations and 6 countries.
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
SMART-Y
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
The SMART-Y project connects youth grassroots organisations, active in EU rural areas, with an international network to engage, connect and empower vulnerable young people between 18 and 30 years to become more active in the field of sustainability. The aim of the project is to let youth become part of the co-creation of European smart villages, which enables them not only to find their own solutions to the existing problems connected to sustainability but also to develop a prototype for these ideas Implemented through a bottom-up approach, young people first discuss and define local problems, which are further introduced into the crow-border hackathon, where international teams formulate concrete solutions for the described problems.
The best solutions are introduced in the prototyping workshop where youth can bring their ideas from the hackathon to life Furthermore, this project fosters joint dialogue for young adults with decision makers through national policy round tables which supports the realization of the European Youth Goal 10: Green Sustainable Europe. The SMART-Y project catalyzes concrete youthdriven empowerment and awareness, encouraging young adults to take charge of their lifestyles’ impact on the World they live in.
VEBY
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA1
The VEBY project was conceived as a response to the pressing issues of disinformation, polarization, and social exclusion faced by young people during the COVID-19 pandemic and the longstanding 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 dialogues with their peers across the 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 economic barriers. These marginalized groups often lack access to educational opportunities and face difficulties in participating 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.
TUNE
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA2
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. The following main activities are designed and have started to be implemented:
-Network Seminar on EU Youth Strategy: By bringing together various stakeholders, this seminar delves into the different aspects of the European Youth Strategy, exploring ways to effectively implement its goals and objectives.
-“Europe Day” Info Sessions: These informative sessions are organized to celebrate and promote the spirit of Europe, engaging young people and informing them about the EU Youth Strategy and its importance for their future -Campaigns for Awareness: Through targeted campaigns, the initiative strives to increase awareness of the EU Youth Strategy, its youth goals, and the role of youth in shaping Europe’s future.
-General Assembly and Network’s Development Event: This event provides a platform for key stakeholders to come together, share insights, and develop strategies for enhancing youth involvement and civil society engagement in EU projects.
TUNI
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
Europe by focusing on engaging young trade union activists (TU) Over a period of 24 months, the project creates a network of young TU leaders/activists to strengthen youth civic engagement The project’s phases include research, curriculum development, a 4-month union academy, and an information campaign This empowers participants to create action plans and share knowledge, reaching 700 young TU members directly. An online campaign aims to reach 700,000 people The project concludes with a consortium visit to Brussels to involve youth sections of TU in European youth policy and a final conference for trade union representatives The goal is to present a new model and lay the foundation for future actions.
Digital Hoop
USB Role: Partner Fund: Erasmus KA2
Digital Hoop is project that focuses on social entrepreneurship of disadvantaged youth and the youth workers that work with them. The main objective of the project is to support and develop youth in entrepreneurship skills and later on help them build a social business. This happens through mentorship programs, a training course and a MOOC
Youth Council Oraiokastro
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA1
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 sPEACE” Urban spaces for active social participation and dialogue. It aims to strengthen the youth sector in Europe and connect the local with the European dimension. The connection is supported by promoting and increasing the role of local youth spaces in the continental context, through their empowerment, but also by encouraging and supporting their networking, proposing a “European Charter of youth speaces” To achieve these goals, the partnership supports the active participation of young people in citizenship activities and experiences in which they can take a leading role, bridging the local and European dimensions and creating a pathway for voices to be heard. their voice
The project is implemented by 9 organizations and 7 EU countries (Italy, Greece, France, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal and Sweden while other countries participate in the online activities
The main outcome of the project is the proposal of a “European Charter for Youth Spaces” to stimulate a debate and possible concrete decisions to recognize and strengthen the role of these participatory experiences in Europe.
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
Youth Accreditation Mobilities
USB Role: Coordinator Fund: Erasmus KA151
Every year USB organizes mobilities in Stratoni and Thessaloniki through its Erasmus accreditation in youth This include youth exchanges, training course and advanced planning visits (APVs) or even networking events. In 2023, one youth exchange and two training courses took place while more than 10 youth mobilities were organised by other funding resources like COE, EGIN, etc.
M.U.S.E.
Music Uproots Stereotypes and Exclusion is a youth exchange that uses music and arts to tackle xenophobia and stereotypes. Also it aims to bring people together from different places all across Europe to get in touch with different cultures, using music as its main tool of cultural exchange. In the end of the project a two hour long festival was organised were participants sung songs, danced and played music, with the locals of Stratoni joining this event and multiplying the effects of exhange to the local community.
C.U.T.E.
Colourful United Training of Empowerment is a training course aimed at providing youth workers ,human rights and lgbtq+ activists and youth necessary education on handling LGBTQ+ . It also aimed to understand the realities of each country and provide training to the participants that they then can use to help expand the rights in their communities and support LGTQ+ youth.
Think Digi - Embracing the digital age
During Think digi, participants all over Europe joined to learn new skills have fun and exchange . The activity gathered 32 participants from all over Europe and beyond: together, they explored and acquired digital tools and skills, learned how to think critically in a digital era and create digital content in order to spread awareness about the importance of digital literacy.
Youth Exchanges as part of long-term projects
Project: REST ART
YE Title: No-formal Environmental Education in Youth Work
Location: Stratoni, Halkidiki
Dates: 2-8 June 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 30
Project: YOUTH SPEACES
YE Title: YOUTH SPEACES Project Youth Exchange
Location: Pau, France
Dates: 25 June - 6 July 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 40
Project: YOUTH SPEACES
YE Title: YOUTH SPEACES Project Youth Exchange
Location: Stratoni, Halkidiki
Dates: 30 June - 9 July 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 40
Project: YOUTH SPEACES
YE Title: YOUTH SPEACES Project Youth Exchange
Location: Malmo, Sweden
Dates: 28 July - 6 August 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 40
Project: YOUTH SPEACES
YE Title: YOUTH SPEACES Project Youth Exchange
Location: Kielce, Poland
Dates: 11 August - 20 August 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 40
Project: TUNI
YE title: Trade Union Academy
Location: Montenegro
Dates: 15 September – 19 September 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 35
Training Courses
Project: EKSEDRA
TC Title: EKSEDRA Training Visit
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Dates: 9-12 June 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: 6
TC Title: Storytelling through “Kamishibai”
Location: Altamura, Italy
Dates: 8-14 July 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: Youth workers and youth
Make a Path: Training Course in Stratoni, Halkidiki
TC Title: Techniques for integrating marginalized individuals in the classroom
Location: Stratoni, Halkidiki
Dates: 25-30 September 2023
Number of Participants Engaged: Teachers, youth workers, and social workers
REST _ ART: Study Visit in Zagreb, Croatia
TC Title: REST ART Study Visit
Location: Zagreb, Croatia
Dates: October 2023
FILANDON: Training Course in Leon, Spain
TC Title: FILANDON Training Course
Location: Leon, Spain
Dates: October 2023
FILANDON: Training Course in Italy
TC Title: FILANDON Training Course
Location: Italy
Dates: October 2023
La Nomad House: Theatrical International Workshops
TC Title: Theatrical International Workshops for Le Songe;
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Dates: Not specified
Number of Participants Engaged: 60 participants including migrants, local residents, and international actors
Youth Council of Oraiokastro (Conference)
Date: 29 March 2023
Location: Oraiokastro, Greece
Participants: Approximately 100 attendees
Details: The conference featured distinguished guests, including local government officials, and representatives from the United Societies of Balkans (USB) presented the project’s objectives and progress Interactive activities included a public engagement exercise and presentations from Youth Councils of neighboring municipalities The event concluded with a reflective session on envisioning the Youth Council’s future.
MUSE: The Music Schools Festival of Xanthi
Date: 3-7 May 2023
Location: Xanthi, Greece
Participants: 200 students and teachers
Details: The festival saw participation from five music schools representing Spain, Italy, Romania, Turkey, and Greece. It was celebrated under the theme “City of Dreams”.
Youth Council of Oraiokastro: Exchange of Good Practices
Date: 7 August 2023
Location: Municipality of Oraiokastro, Greece
Participants: 50 attendees
Details: This event focused on exchanging good practices among Youth Councils of the region.
EASY-EU (Workshop)
Date: 11 October 2023
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Participants: 40 participants
Details: The workshop titled “Climate Dystopia: From Crisis to Action” was attended by 40 participants of various ages, addressing climate change challenges and EU policies.
Details: The conference titled European Elections 2024: The Importance of Our Participation; discussed EU topics like elections, the green deal, and youth involvement. Presenters included representatives from USB, Law to Impact, and the Heinrich Boell Institute of Thessaloniki.
Football for All (Multiplier Event; Football Match)
Date: 30 September 2023
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Participants: Over 50 young people
Details: In collaboration with YMCA and Amna, over 50 young people participated in football and basketball games for the “football for all” special edition during European Sports Week.
Football for All (Matches)
Date: January - December 2023
Location: Various locations in Thessaloniki, Greece
Participants: Over 500 participants (locals, refugees, and immigrants)
Details: A total of 18 matches were held across six countries, including Thessaloniki, involving locals and people with fewer opportunities, mainly refugees and immigrants.
TUNE: General Assembly & Networking Event
Date: 5-8 December 2023
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Participants: 20 attendees
Details: The TUNE network meeting saw participation from 18 organizations across 17 countries, creating new collaborations and project ideas through networking activities.
Conferences
COMMUNITIES DRIVE CHANGE (Thessaloniki, GR)
Event Dates: 21st March - 22nd March
Location: Town Hall of Thessaloniki’s Municipality
Final Conference Date: 21st March
Participants: 52 participants
Details: Discussion on community participation. Workshops focused on community participation
SMART-Y (Brussels, BE)
Event Dates: 19th April - 22nd April
Location: Brussels
Final Conference Date: 20th April
Participants: 51 people, including Jack Tolu, EU MP
Details: Providing a platform for young people living in rural areas to voice their ideas.
Conferences
40NEANOTHER
Event Date: 26th May 2023
Location: Thessaloniki
Title: Local Conference: The Integration of Unaccompanied Minors: The Case Of Greece
Participants: Not specified
HIDDEN DIMENSIONS (Thessaloniki,
GR)
Event Date: 27th July 2023
Location: City Hall of Thessaloniki
Plan: Hidden Dimensions;
Title: The Promotion of Equal Participation and Empowerment of Young People
Collaborators: Civil society organizations
Participants: Not specified
Details: Presentation of scientific research on the inclusion of young people with disabilities in Erasmus+ programs. Awareness raising on issues of inclusion in school environments, support for people on the autism spectrum, and accessible tourism through an interdisciplinary approach.
4 ONE ANOTHER (Brussels, BE)
Event Date: 26th July
Location: Brussels
Project: 4oneAnother (funded by the Erasmus+ program of the European Union)
Participants: Not specified
Details: Deliberation on crucial matters pertaining to the closure of the project.
Participation in the International Conference “Integration of Unaccompanied Minors in Europe: An Essential Collaboration Between Actors.”
HIDDEN DIMENSIONS
Research Report and Policy Recommendation for the inclusion of youth with disabilities in Erasmus+ projects, August 2023.
MUSE
Educational Toolkit for Teaching with the use of Music, November 2023
4oneAnother:
Training program for unaccompanied and separated children, December 2023 https://mooc.4oneanother.org/courses/training-for-betterintegration-of-unaccompanied-minors/
VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEER
Coordinator
Christian Cibba
Volunteers’ Officer
Christos Leivaditis
Volunteers’ Coordinator
Mariam Gatenahsvili
House Manager
Dionisis Tonas
Mentor
Urania Rapti
External collaborators for projects in Aristotelis Municipality, Halkidiki:
Volunteers' Coordinator
Fotini Karamouzi
Mentor
Marianna Karava
2023 has been very fruitful for the Volunteering Department of USB, as it saw the hosting of 152 volunteers in various projects! The arrival of the new ESC long-term volunteers, combined with the continuation of the projects of those who had arrived during autumn of the previous year, entered the most productive phase of their experience, saw the realization of various actions during spring. Some of them include online and offline campaigns in the week against racism, videos for sensibilization for International Women’s Day, for “Biokofinaki” and Argo’s work, as well as the participations and covering of various events and cultural happenings in the city, such as the Documentary Festival, French Film Festival, Vegan Festival and Climate Week.
STREET CLEANING IN STRATONI
THESSALONIKI PRIDE 2023
A considerable part of the activities has been done collaboratively with the local volunteer team of USB (which is co-managed with our colleagues Kiki and Panos, from the Mobility and Press departments respectively). In this context, international local volunteers supported each in activities, worked or participated together in events, such as Language Tandems, the Olympic Day Run, Alexander the Great Marathon and Thess Pride 2023 In addition, the department managed the implementation of 7 volunteering teams with duration of 2 months, from the projects RESTART and H2O (106 participants in total) The last team of the former project, supported “Faros Tou Kosmou” by providing for the Roma community and children during the winter months, with the participation of youngsters from the Roma community as in- country volunteers, during August-September. The two first groups of H2O were also hosted and implemented activities for the promotion of Cultural Heritage and Migration, in Thessaloniki and Stratoni. The activities resulted in the creation of audiovisual outputs (2 short documentaries, videos, photos), articles, a special edition of the Balkan Beats Magazine, as well as various open events in both activity locations. Autumn saw the arrival of new long-term and short volunteers in "Balkan Hotspot" and the network of hosting organisations in Thessaloniki, as well as in Halkidiki. The year of volunteering department's activities culminated with the big event for volunteer's day in December, where the results of H2O and year's activities where also presented to the audience, with participation of the organisation's ESC and local volunteers.
Fields of activity
Non-formal education
Work with children
Youth media/ Media production
Environmental activities
Promotion of healthy lifestyle
Art and narrative art/storytelling
Women empowerment
Support for Roma community
LGBTQI+ rights
Support for small communities
Technology in education
Integration and everyday needs of marginalized groups
Youth empowerment
Support in the implementation of festivals
Sport activities and events
Thessaloniki
Ιnfo day on ESC and Erasmus+ and H2O project dissemination
International open live music and food event, focusing on the common music and cuisine of Asia
Minor between Greece and Turkiye
Multicultural language event
Closing event and presentation of results and activities of H2O group “Cultural Heritage and Migration” in Thessaloniki
Open sports activity for the children and youth of Dendropotamos, taking place in the neighbourhood
Intercultural open mic event
Volunteer day event
Stratoni
Intercultural food event, focusing on common Greek and Turkish cuisine
Open sports games for children and youth
Open basketball tournament and other sports activities for children and youth in cooperation with volu volunteers from Arnaia
Fairytale reading at the library for children 5-10 years old
Football tournament open for all
Arnaia
Open basketball tournament for youth
Open football tournament for youth
Open pink pong tournament for youth
Open Volleyball tournament for youth
07/12/2023
13/7/2023
18/7/2023
21/7/2023 13/9/2023
21/9/2023 10/12/2023 07/01/2023
17/7/2023 29/7/2023 08/03/2023
08/04/2023
21/7/2023 08/04/2023
08/10/2023
29/8/2023
and events
Event for New Years Eve
Salesman for 1 hour
Clean up of Parko Tsepis in Svolou
Walking tour: human rights in the streets of Thessaloniki
Olympic DAY Run
Online Tandem for “Tell me”
International picnic at Pasha Gardens
Alexander the Great Marathon
Parathinoupoli
Thessaloniki Pride 2023
Muse Festival
Arneon youth festival
Partnerships Support/participating
Eurocircle Volontariat
Pina
Parcours le Monde Grand Ouest
Turbina Pomerania
Eurasia Net
NaturKultur
Association Gwennili
02/02/2023
14/2/2023
19/3/2023
30/3/2023
04/02/2023
12/4/2023
22/4/2023
30/4/2023
25/5/2023
24/6/2023
25/7/2023
21/8/2023
24/8/2023
Fundacio Catalunya Volontaria
Rete educare diritti umani REDU
Countries of ESC participants
MOBILITY
Head of Department
Kyriaki Pelagou
Through United Societies of Balkans, more than 200 young people had the opportunity to participate and enhance their skills in projects all around Europe during the year of 2023.
Countries of collaboration
My Erasmus+ Experience
Youth and Ecosystem services
Prebelow, Germany
“I am very happy to have had this opportunity and hope to be able to participate in other programs in the future”
-Dimitris
mEUsic, the sound of youth
Navarredonda de Gredos, Spain
“Through these programs you really broaden your horizons and create a new picture of the world”
-Sara
“Guide to you know what” Malta
“Throughout the journey we had USB by our side and I would like to thank them for giving us this opportunity and being by our side”
-Ioannis
Outdoor Bound Ventspils, Latvia
“Our common love for the outdoors brought us together, and we formed strong bonds that transcended borders.”
-Christos
Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Bușteni, Romania
“It really was an awesome and unique experience and I was sad when it came to an end, and I think it's something that everyone should experience at least once in their life ”
-Anna
Young G.I.F.S. for Democracy Stratoni, Greece
“If you had told me when I first applied to this programme that it would turn out to be one of the most amazing things that I have ever experienced, I honestly wouldn’t believe you ” -Eleni
Non-formal education
Environmental Issues
Digital Skills
Personal Growth
Circular Economy
Arts and Culture
Human Rights
Youth empowerment
Intercultural dialogue
European Citizenship
Entrepreneurship
Language Skills
Hate Speech
Mental Health
Sports
BALKAN HEART
BALKAN HEART
Hara Siafaka
Christina Dede
At its core, Balkan Heart has become a dynamic venue open for lease, providing a welcoming and adaptable environment for individuals and organizations seeking a space to rent and utilize for a myriad of purposes. Whether it hosts events, workshops, or meetings, Balkan Heart offers a versatile setting that accommodates diverse needs, creating a vibrant atmosphere conducive to productivity and creativity.
SOCIAL MEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA
Press Officer Panos Skepadianos
Unique Visitors Impressions
Page New Follows
Google Business
Unique Visitors from all sources Website clicks from your business profile
Directions asked Calls received
Google Search from Mobile
Google
Google Search Keys
United Societies of Balkans
Other
usbngo
usb thessaloniki
NETWORKS
USB’s Network Involvement
Over the past years, USB has significantly expanded its footprint across both international and national networks, solidifying its role as a key player in youth development and exchange initiatives.
Anna Lindh Foundation
For more than a decade, USB is part of the Anna-Lindh Foundation. Aristodimos Paraschou, the President of USB has also been appointed along with Stefanos Valianatos from the Hellenic Foundation for Culture as Co-Head of the Greek network. As a result USB every year organises all the meetings and capacity building activities of its members, different conferences and missions within Greece and in Europe. Youth for Exchange and Understanding (YEU International) Since 2015 USB is a full member of the network and for the period 20202025 Yannis Tsilsou, the Director of USB, holds dual roles as vice-president and treasurer.
Transnational United Network in Europe (TUNE)
TUNE is an initiative of USB embracing 18 different youth organisations from Europe. USB’s Head of Project Management, Elina Azopoulou, serves as a coordinator, further enhancing USB’s strategic role in European project management and transnational collaboration.
Youth Express Network (YEN)
USB is a full member of the network since 2016.
United Network of Young Peacebuilders (UNOY)
USB is a full member of the network since 2021.
Eurodesk
USB has been selected as one of the Eurodesk multipliers, contributing to the promotion of youth mobilities and voluntary projects among young people in Greece since 2023.
ThessDiktyo Network - Thessaloniki
ThessDiktyo is the local network of the voluntary organisation in Thessaloniki and USB had been one of the founding members of it in 2011. Foteini Vakitsidou, Project Manager from USB, serves as the communication’s coordinator.
Alliance of Small and Medium-sized Civil Society Organizations in Greece
The Alliance is a secondary-level representative body for civil society organizations in Greece and USB has been a founding member, since 2023.
AristoTales NGO
The organization AristoTales was founded in 2023 in Stratoni, Municipality of Aristotle as a continuation of previous actions by USB in the region. Together, they work to empower citizens, particularly young people, by promoting sustainable socio-economic development, intercultural dialogue, the principles of democracy, and human rights.
