As part of their Swiss for Greece aid project, young adults, together with the JUSESO team from the Catholic Church of Thurgau, volunteer their time every autumn to work and provide assistance on the Greek island of Skyros. This autumn, the theme was ‘moments of happiness’, which they share here.

Elias
It was my first time on the island of Skyros. As I didn’t know the group yet, one of the highlights for me was our ‘get-to-know-you walk’. This really strengthened our sense of community and paved the way for a great week together.

Nico
This week, I realised once again how privileged we are. After a hard day’s work cutting wood in the middle of nowhere, I didn’t have to worry about a thing once I’d finished. I could get in the car, open a cold Coke, go for a swim in the sea and charge my mobile phone.

Ladina
One encounter stood out for me in particular. For four years now, I have been visiting a resident who has a bedridden son. It was an emotional highlight when this son recognised me.

Filmon
This year was my third visit to Skyros. Language barriers are an issue every year, but this time I became particularly aware of how important your inner attitude is. Many residents make just as much effort as we do to ensure that communication is successful. That motivates me all the more to do voluntary work here.