Exploring Thessaloniki: A Short-Term Volunteer Experience with Paw-site Parks by LEA

Lea Hiemann, ESAI EN ROI Volunteer; Candidate Youth Worker   || German

SC volunteering in teams  be SUSTAINABLE SPORTIVE & CULTURAL project  2/12 to 21/12 2025

2024-1-EL02-ESC51-VTJ-000200188

As a short-term volunteer, I spent three weeks participating in the Paw-site Parks initiative in Greece. Thessaloniki, in particular, has a special meaning for me because it is the birthplace of my best friend, Alex. Before starting, we were given a briefing about what to expect: warm-hearted people, great hospitality, and messy streets. I curiously stepped into this adventure with no expectations. Just a bucket list that included bugatsa, kritisna, and a perfume dupe store.

What I came back with? A luggage filled with Melomakaroma and funny, messy memories that will last a lifetime. I learned a lot about the culture and the realities of people’s lives. Not just Greece, but also all around Europe. Thanks to Eleni’s mbitious work ethic, we gained insight into multiple fields. The arts, animal welfare and urban care. Together with our amazing group of volunteers, we were able to establish theatre performances which spread international Christmas spirit around

Thessaloniki. The most touching moment was without a doubt the response of the kids at the primary school we were at. As a team, we worked very closely, and there was immediate space for connection thanks to the great ice breaker program by Mariam and Saba. Coming from very different backgrounds and being at different stages of our lives was never a problem. I learned from each and everyone. We explored a lot around and found ourselves in amazing places.

Who's that cat?

My role representing Germany in the research helped me identify structural differences between nations and explore European laws concerning stray animals. Growing up in Germany meant that animals living on the streets were something almost fictional, something you only see in movies. This experience truly broadened my horizons and made me more familiar with global issues.Concerning citizens and stray animals. Volunteering showed me that it is not only knowledge, but purposeful small actions that drive meaningful change. With Esai en Roi, for example, we cleaned a shelter, which represents the essence of voluntary work for me. It felt really

good to contribute in a tangible and meaningful way. On the other hand, we had a well based research to back up our observations on the streets for the pets. During the research process, HongBo was a great help and created structure. I also enjoyed participating in Giovanni’s cooking workshop, as it allowed me to interact with the kids and be a helping hand. Lastly, I shared my idea of creating stencils to spread meaningful graffiti messages around the city, which felt like a strong closure to our research. Additionally, I took part in the plays and dances created by our talented art

group. Gaining practical experience in the performing arts was especially important for me in deciding the direction of my future career path.

... during a Christmas Event in Galopoulou Square - 6 Dec 2026 (Saint Nicolas DAY)

I am Lea. 19 years old and now at home in not-so-foreign places. Feeling connected not just to the world, but also my inner self.