Personalised education for displaced young people

When we opened Gekko’s doors in July, we were keenly aware of the large number of displaced children and youth in Athens. We knew from our experience working with UASCs (unaccompanied asylum-seeking children) on Lesvos that Gekko’s integrated approach to education and counselling support would provide much-needed opportunities for learning, healing, and growth. 

In the first five months of Gekko operations, we’ve welcomed over 80 students to courses, workshops, and tutoring sessions. There are currently 44 students regularly attending Gekko courses, 55% of whom are children. We expect to welcome another 30-35 students for English and Business courses launching this month. And we celebrated receiving our 100th application this week! 

While we’re confident in the impact Gekko has had so far, the data we’ve collected shows a gap between the number of Gekko applicants and the number of active students: just under 60% of applicants go on to attend classes regularly. Attending classes takes more than just the will to learn; many of our potential students face unstable accommodation situations and limited access to essentials like food and transportation. When basic needs are not met, impossible decisions must be made and attendance falls behind. 

Thanks to your financial support, we are breaking down these barriers to education. Your donations are enabling us to offer a student pass for public transportation and a biweekly 20 EUR food voucher for every active Gekko student. We expect these resources to narrow the gap, ease the challenges current students face, and enable more students to pursue their education at Gekko. With your help, we’ll make sure no student has to choose between finding a meal and attending class. Thank you!

Support Better Days on Giving Tuesday

GlobalGiving is offering $1.2 million in matching funds for all donations made to our project on Giving Tuesday, 28 November. The more we raise, the more matching we receive! If you want to make your donation go even further, this is a great opportunity. We can't thank you enough for your continued generosity. 

Links:

• Better Days website
• Better Days Instagram
• Better Days Facebook