Celebrating Community Impact: The Incredible Contributions of Volunteers at Karatasou Park

Timetable of the Day

Morning session started with a Youthpass presentation by Mariam Sanikidze and Saba Khutsishvili, junior Youth Workers, supporting us here as learning process facilitators (via ice breaking games applications as well as the current short training about youthpass where you can check more ckecking the link: https://www.facebook.com/esai12/videos/1958424061777740

ACTIVITIES IN KARATASOU PARK

Volunteers have shaped Karatasou Park into a vibrant community space since 2018. Their dedication has transformed trails, gardens, and public areas into welcoming spots for sports, arts, and nature appreciation. On a recent afternoon, volunteers gathered to continue this tradition, building on years of hard work and creativity. Their efforts highlight how individual projects can come together to create lasting value for everyone who visits the park.

Supporting the School Garden with Art and Care

The school garden with its gazebo in the park has benefited greatly from volunteer attention. Over the years, volunteers have painted murals on the gazebo and cleaned the area, making it a colorful and inviting space for students and visitors (individual volunteering projects 2024-25). This garden serves as a hands-on learning environment where children and teens can connect with nature. The artistic touches added by volunteers brighten the space and foster a sense of pride and ownership among young learners.

A small contribution of Pawsitive Parks group of volunteers to the Garden's space

Building Benches and Creating Activity Spaces

Volunteers constructed five sturdy benches around the park in Dec 2024 (Skyrthalia vol. I), providing comfortable spots for rest and socializing. These benches invite visitors to pause and enjoy the natural surroundings. In addition, volunteers helped establish 21 designated spaces for sports and arts activities. Each space includes QR codes that link to information about the area’s purpose and upcoming events. This integration of technology and community engagement encourages visitors to explore and participate in park activities.

Moving Heavy Recycled Materials for Future Art Projects

A notable achievement during the latest volunteer session was the transfer of large recycled items, including huge wooden wheels. These materials will be painted by LEV, a graphic designer volunteering over the next few months. This project combines sustainability with creativity, turning recycled objects into public art. It also demonstrates how volunteers contribute not only through physical labor but by supporting artistic expression that enriches the park environment.

Moving one of the wheels... where did it go? .. stay connected with our newsletters to learn more!

Experiencing Dance in Nature

Volunteers had the chance to witness a brief dance performance by Lara and Ana (one of their personal projects), set against the backdrop of the park’s natural beauty. This moment of movement and expression added a unique cultural layer to the day’s activities. It showed how Karatasou Park serves as a stage not only for sports and art installations but also for live performances that connect people with nature in unexpected ways.

Lara (left side) and Anna (right side) during rehearsing with the support of Giovanni (sitting in the bench) as well as Mariam's and Saba's contributions

Spreading Awareness with Stencil Graffiti

To raise awareness about stray animals, volunteers created stencil graffiti with messages promoting care for cats and other animals in the park (Lea's project). These artworks carry the “Pawsitive Parks” message, encouraging visitors to respect and protect local wildlife. Using stencil graffiti allowed volunteers to share important messages in a visually striking and accessible way. This initiative highlights the park’s role as a space for community education and compassion.

A Day of Dedication and Community Spirit

The volunteer activities took place between 14:00 and 19:00, a productive five-hour window filled with teamwork and enthusiasm. Each participant contributed to ongoing projects that have been developing since 2018. Their combined efforts demonstrate how consistent volunteer involvement can lead to meaningful improvements in public spaces. Karatasou Park stands as a testament to what a committed group of individuals can achieve together.

Encouraging More People to Join Volunteer Efforts

The work done by volunteers at Karatasou Park shows the power of community action. Whether it’s maintaining trails, supporting school gardens, building benches, or creating art, every contribution matters. Those interested in making a difference can find many ways to get involved, from physical labor to creative projects. Volunteering not only benefits the park but also builds connections among neighbors and fosters a shared sense of responsibility.