The Adventure Begins

Welcome to my sporadic blog of my time in Athens.  

A few months ago I decided to research English teaching opportunities in the refugee camps operated by UNHCR.  I discovered that UNHCR does not run education programs directly, but often coordinates with other organizations.  My search led me to the NGO, The Halcyon Project, which runs education programs for refugees in Greece.  Initially the classes were on the island of Chios and were started to ensure that refugee youth continue to learn while waiting in the camps.  They have now started additional classes in Athens teaching refugee women English, Greek, and computer skills.  After getting in touch with one of the directors, I agreed to teach English at the center in Athens for 2 months, September and October.  August 28 I left Portland the same day that Rory and her roommate flew to London to spend a month visiting the UK, Ireland, and Italy.  I finally arrived, exhausted, in Athens on August 29 at 11 pm.

With suitcase packed, Rod and I had time for a hike on the Columbia

and to go down to Mike's to hear Boka Marimba with the rest of Hood River.

Rhianna, Rory, and I at the Portland airport waiting to catch our flights.