Help Us Build a Playground for Kids in Vagiochori Refugee Camp in Thessaloniki, Greece!

Γειά σου! Hello! We are Team PUC Greece, a dedicated group of eight students from engineering and social work. Projects with Underserved Communities (PUC) is a longstanding partnership between the Cockrell School of Engineering and the Steve Hicks School of Social Work, launched in 2010. This program is designed to tackle the dual goals of addressing community needs and enriching student learning through hands-on, service-based projects.

This year, our project in Greece is especially close to our hearts. Together, we are designing and building a community-centered playground—a safe, inspiring space where children can play, explore, and grow. By blending engineering ingenuity with social work insights, we’re creating an environment that will serve not just as a playground but as a lasting resource for the community, fostering joy, learning, and connection for years to come.

We are fundraising to bring our vision for a new playground at the Vagiochori Refugee Camp in Greece to life! Every dollar raised will directly fund the construction of the playground, including the removal of the existing, outdated structure and the installation of safe, engaging equipment for over 150 children to enjoy. Our goal is to provide a space where kids can experience the joy of play, social interaction, and growth in a safe environment that fulfills the needs of every child in the camp.

Additionally, we’re seeking support to work with a technical advisor who can guide us in using AutoCAD for precise designs and teach us essential drainage techniques to ensure our playground is sustainable and functional. To deepen our impact, we’ll also partner with a cultural advisor who will serve as our translator, helping us communicate effectively within the camp and navigate the local culture in Thessaloniki.

All funds raised will go strictly toward the project, directly impacting the refugee community and creating a meaningful, lasting resource for the children and families!

Current Playground for 150 kids

Our Partner 

We are excited to be working with YMCA Greece, a dedicated NGO (non-governmental organization) that plays a critical role in our project at the Vagiochori Refugee Camp. NGOs like YMCA Greece work independently from the government to support communities and address social issues, often focusing on providing resources and advocating for those in need.

YMCA Greece, part of the global YMCA network, is committed to empowering and uplifting communities across Greece. They will be instrumental in our project, acting as our bridge to the Greece Ministry and the Vagiochori Refugee Camp, helping us understand and meet the needs of the camp’s residents. YMCA Greece will guide us in connecting with the community, relaying what the camp desires from our playground project, and ensuring our efforts align with the hopes and needs of the children and families we’re here to serve. Their support and insights are invaluable, making them our greatest ally in making this playground a meaningful and lasting addition to the camp!

Vagiochori Refugee Camp

Your donation has the power to bring our playground project to life, transforming an idea into a joyful reality for the children at Vagiochori Refugee Camp. Every contribution goes directly toward construction costs, from building new play structures to ensuring the space is safe, accessible, and ready for the kids to enjoy. By donating, you’ll make an incredible difference for these children, providing them with a space to play, grow, and simply be kids. Not only are you supporting a meaningful cause, but your generosity will have a lasting impact on over 150 young lives, giving them a safe and happy place to call their own. With your help, we can make this project possible.