The Smile of the Child” celebrated 25 years of service
“The Smile of the Child” celebrated 25 years of service to children and families in need in the presence of Η.Ε. Τhe President of the Hellenic Republic at the “Megaron” Concert Hall
- In 25 + 1 years of action “The Smile of the Child” supported holistically 1.802.303 children and their families
- More than 12.500 volunteers form the backbone of the Organization
- More than 15,000 sponsors help with support in its mission
- The Organization in 1st place among country NGOs with 92% awareness.
On November 9th, the anniversary of the day that its 10-year-old founder, Andreas Yannopoulos wrote his diary, “The Smile of the Child” celebrated its 25 years of contribution to children and society, in an event held in the presence of H.E. the President of the Hellenic Republic, Ms. Katerina Sakellaropoulou at Megaron Concert Hall.
The event was also attended by the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Mrs. Domna Michailidou, as representative of the Greek government and Mrs. Mareva Mitsotaki, spouse of the Greek Prime Minister.
Among others participants, and in strict compliance with the Covid-19 protective measures, the event was attended by Ministers and members of the Government, Judicial Officers, Representatives of the Army and the Security Corps, Representatives of Institutional Bodies, Ambassadors and Representatives of Foreign Diplomatic Authorities in Greece, sponsors, supporters, friends, employees and volunteers of the Organization. The well-known Greek TV journalist, Ms. Irene Nikolopoulou, hosted the event.
The President of the Organization “The Smile of the Child” Mr. Costas Yannopoulos, welcomed and thanked the attendees for their presence, making special reference to H.E. the President of the Hellenic Republic, Mrs. Katerina Sakellaropoulou, who is a valuable contributor to the efforts and actions of the Organization for the protection of every child and family in Greece.
“It all started from a young child, from Andreas, my son, and I feel very proud because today I represent him. Moreover, I also represent his vision and all the people who have contributed to the realization of “The Smile of the Child” in every way, and especially those who participate wholeheartedly. 25 years ago, in the kitchen of our house, Andreas wrote the last page of his diary, a page that goes beyond imagination, as only children know how to reach the sky. At the time I could not think that his dream would be realized and that all the Greeks would embrace it. I feel proud that in these 25 years, thanks to your contribution, thanks to the dedication of our employees and volunteers, we have been able to support 1,802,303 children and their families by providing them with personalized and holistic support. The essence of “The Smile of the Child” is reflected in our activities, the children we raise at our 14 “warm nests”, the Homes we have created for them, the Support Centers that provide for the decent living of every family in need, the ambulances that are at the disposal of the National Emergency Aid Center (EKAV), the children who had gone missing and were returned safe to their family, the wide fleet of vehicles used to meet the daily countless needs, the 4 Lines for the Support and Assistance for children, adolescents and adults, the Daycare Homes, the Action of Preventive Medicine for every child. Today, I am here representing an Organization that has also been acknowledged outside the borders of our country. Nothing was easy, but we managed to cope with the innumerable difficulties with devotion and dedication. We renew our commitment to follow Andrew’s vision in the coming 25 years as well. We can only make it together. Thank you.” stated the President of the Organization, Mr. Costas Yannopoulos.
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