Echo100 Plus
ECHO100PLUS is a privately funded Austrian-Greek NGO actively operating in Greece since 2015. Our journey began with a simple yet powerful mission: we could not stand by and witness the humanitarian crisis without taking action to support the thousands of refugees arriving on the Greek islands. Since then, over 1,000 volunteers from around the world have joined our cause, answering our call for help. Through the generosity of supporters, we've received financial contributions and in-kind donations, allowing us to make a meaningful impact.
Over nearly a decade, we have successfully implemented several key projects, including providing first-response services on the islands of Leros and Samos, establishing a community and integration center on Leros, and creating a distribution center at the Ritsona Refugee Camp. Our efforts have evolved to meet the changing needs of refugee and migrant populations in Greece, and today, we operate an Integration HUB in central Athens.
At the Athens HUB, we focus on providing educational and integration services to adult refugee and migrant communities, addressing critical gaps in support left by the government. Our goal is to empower individuals by helping them build on their existing skills or acquire new ones to secure employment and become self-reliant. We offer language courses in Greek and English, computer literacy training, access to higher education, and vocational training. In addition, our integration team provides essential services such as legal assistance, career counselling, and job placement, further supporting refugees and migrants on their journey toward a brighter future.
Where is it?
ECHO HUB Athens is in I. Drosopoulou 29, 11257 Kypseli, Athens
What will I be doing?
Volunteers play a vital role in the daily operations of the HUB, contributing to a wide range of tasks that keep our programs running smoothly. Experienced volunteer teachers commit to a minimum of three months to lead Greek and English language classes. Other volunteers facilitate conversation groups, teach computer skills, and assist with exam preparation and tutoring.
In addition to educational support, volunteers help manage various aspects of the HUB, including running the reception, maintaining the library, and overseeing the tea station. They also assist with basic accounting, and housekeeping duties and contribute to social media and fundraising efforts for ongoing projects. Volunteers also organize field trips and cultural outings to help our students explore the city and develop a sense of belonging. In addition, they coordinate activities like table tennis matches, book clubs, and other creative initiatives that foster engagement and community spirit.
Volunteers often serve as cultural bridges, facilitating the exchange of ideas and values, and ensuring that the HUB remains a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for everyone involved.Minimum time commitment: 1 month, but we prefer 3 to 6 months to add sustainability to our programs.
What impact would I have?
Volunteers are essential to our operations, playing a key role in helping us achieve our mission of supporting beneficiaries in their challenging journey toward integration and self-sufficiency. Their contributions are fundamental to the success of our programs; without them, much of our work would not be possible.
In return, volunteers gain direct experience with the refugee situation in Greece and insight into the various stakeholders providing services. This perspective equips them to become informed advocates for the refugee cause and broader civil society efforts, helping to raise awareness and foster support for those in need.Who will I be working with?
Alongside the entire staff: teachers, social workers, administrative staff, and other volunteers and interns, founders.
Minimum age
18 years old
Accommodation
Volunteers share accommodation; 2 double-bed rooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living room. We ask for a contribution fee of € 5 per day.
Extra Costs
Travelling costs, daily expenses, insurance
Skills required
We welcome volunteers with a wide range of skills, including teaching Greek or English, computer literacy, basic accounting, social media management, and fundraising experience. However, anyone with a passion for supporting others, strong communication skills, creativity, and a desire to foster a sense of community is highly encouraged to join us.
In addition to our core programs, we offer activities like table tennis, games, and art projects, and we would love to expand our offerings, especially during the winter months—yoga classes, for instance, would be a fantastic addition for all!Interested in volunteering?