With great honor and emotion, Exelizi Zois received an award at the "Nisides Piotitas 2025" awards, an institution that highlights the most promising initiatives of the Citizens' Movement (City of Athens) for an Open Society. The organization was awarded the prize for "Outstanding Voluntary Effort" by the President of the Hellenic Republic, in the presence of representatives of the State, social contribution organizations, and the wider community of active citizens.
The founder and CEO of the organization, Ms. Dimitra Kalantoni, delivered a deeply emotional speech in which she shared the personal experience that led to the creation of Exelizi Zois, as well as the vision that guides her work and that of the entire team.
Exelizi Zois was founded in 2018 with the aim of supporting adolescents and young adults from child protection structures in their transition to autonomy and social integration, before and after they reach adulthood. To date:
- Over 300 young people have received support
- 40,000 hours of educational programs have been implemented
- 20,000 hours of psychosocial support have been provided
- 60 young people found work
- 48 young people found a safe home
- 15 young people were admitted to universities and vocational training institutes
Currently, 83 teenagers and young adults are receiving support, 19 of whom are also receiving housing support through the organization's program, with the aim of deinstitutionalization and independence. At the same time, the organization is expanding in both Athens and Crete with 11 new homes, which will accommodate 23 more young adults, following the approval of its application to join the Semi-Independent Living Program of the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family.
Upon receiving the award, Dimitra Kalantoni stated:
"We thank our beneficiaries, who inspire us every day to become better people. The award belongs to every child and young person who dared to believe that they can; our professionals and team members, who give their all every day; and our supporters, who trust us. 'Exelixi Zois' began from a personal experience and today continues its journey with faith, responsibility, transparency, and hope."
She then added:
"We invite you all to stand by us, learn about our work, and help us change even more lives. We invite companies and organizations to support our efforts, because every new partnership means one more child will find their way.
Only together can we give young persons the opportunity to develop, stand on their own two feet, and flourish."
The 'Nisides Piotitas' award recognizes the organization's significant social contribution and unwavering commitment to providing every young person with the opportunities they deserve.
