In total, since 1932, more than 15,800 children have been hosted, while the number of volunteers who have helped is approaching 3,500
When the institution of Camps was almost unknown in our country, Father Pyrounakis, starting from his love for youth and experiencing their immediate and future needs, believed that this institution could provide children with all the benefits of life in nature as well as the benefits of communal living. Furthermore, he believed it could become a supporter and guide for young people in the awareness and resolution of their problems.
From the beginning, Father Pyrounakis defines the foundations of this new institution:
- The Camp is not a children’s countryside retreat.
- It is not a disciplined youth camp (like, for example, the Metaxas Youth of that era).
- It is an institution of social service and education. It has the ability to create a complete, beautiful society in which the relationships between its members are harmoniously regulated, offering an irreplaceable experience in the development of the young person who will live it.
- The ultimate goal of the Camps is for youth to find true joy in their lives.
That’s why he named them “Happy Children – Happy Youth.”
Those who engage with this important institution must have:
- “Clean hands”, so that the Camp does not become an object of exploitation or commercialization.
- Open minds—open horizons, for the proper understanding of reality and the perspective of its development, so that accordingly they can prepare the youth.
- An open and deep heart, so that they consider all children as children of the same God without distinctions, with no spirit of “charity,” but sincere offering.
- Volunteering is a necessary condition, but amateurism is unacceptable. Responsible handling by accountable people with appropriate programs is essential.