Chalandri, Greece, 29 July 2026 — The International Rescue Committee (IRC), within the framework of the HELIOS+ Project, which is implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Region of Attica, organized and delivered two targeted workshops aimed at strengthening the knowledge and skills of Municipality of Chalandri staff to better support individuals with refugee and migrant backgrounds at the local level.
The workshops took place in June and July at the Community Centre of the Municipality of Chalandri, with the participation of employees working in municipal structures that play a critical role in the provision of social services. The Deputy Mayor for Sports, Youth, and Support for Refugees and Migrants, the Head of the Directorate of Social Welfare of the Municipality and the Coordinating Social Worker of the Community Center and Roma Branch, also attended and participated in the initiative.
The training provided participants with the opportunity to strengthen both their theoretical knowledge and practical skills on issues related to interculturality, cultural understanding, social inclusion, and the provision of services in an inclusive and culturally sensitive manner. Particular emphasis was placed on understanding the needs and everyday challenges faced by refugee and migrant populations, as well as on improving referral procedures and connectivity with available services.
This initiative forms part of a broader framework of interventions aimed at strengthening social cohesion and supporting the meaningful integration of refugee and migrant populations into local communities. It seeks to address the needs of local stakeholders for better-trained staff, ensuring that populations of concern receive services that respond to their needs and rights, while also facilitating integration in ways that benefit local communities and economies.
The International Rescue Committee remains committed to empowering local stakeholders and promoting policies and practices that strengthen inclusion and social cohesion. In collaboration with the International Organization for Migration, IRC aims to further expand partnerships with local authorities and social service structures.
These activities are implemented within the framework of the HELIOS+ Project, a portfolio of Regional Integration Projects currently operating in 11 regions across Greece with the objective of promoting the integration of third-country nationals into the Greek labour market and society. Designed by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with the support of the Greek Government, HELIOS+ builds on the successful implementation of the HELIOS Project (2019–2024). HELIOS+ is co-funded by the European Union through the Regional Projects for the 2021–2027 period and is fully aligned with Greece’s National Integration Strategy. A core commitment of HELIOS+ is the empowerment of beneficiaries of International and Temporary Protection residing in Greece. Through a range of services designed based on the assessed needs of the target population, the Project promotes their integration into the social and economic life of the country.