About Us
About the project:
HYPER – Action for Animal Sheltering is a solidarity project created and led by young people in Thessaloniki, Greece. With the support of the European Solidarity Corps, our initiative connects two important causes: the urgent need to protect stray animals and the need to offer young people, especially those with ADHD, opportunities for inclusion, growth, and meaningful participation in community life.
The project began as a response to the visible struggles of our city. Stray dogs and cats live on the streets without food, shelter, or medical care. Local shelters do their best, but most face overcrowding, underfunding, and lack of volunteers. At the same time, many young people in Thessaloniki, particularly those with fewer opportunities, feel excluded from society and uncertain about how they can contribute. HYPER was born from the belief that these two challenges can be addressed together.
Through our activities, we create bridges between animal welfare and human empowerment. When young people volunteer in shelters, walk dogs, or care for animals, they gain not only practical skills but also confidence, empathy, and a sense of responsibility. These actions improve the well-being of animals while also offering therapeutic benefits and inclusion for the volunteers themselves.
Our goals are clear:
- Support and strengthen animal shelters through active volunteering and resource mobilization
- Improve living conditions for stray animals in Thessaloniki
- Promote adoption and responsible pet ownership
- Engage young people with ADHD and fewer opportunities in meaningful activities that boost self-esteem and social connection
- Raise awareness in the wider community about compassion, solidarity, and respect for all living beings
We believe that animal welfare is deeply connected to human well-being. Every act of care, whether feeding a stray, offering time to a shelter, or educating the public, creates ripples of change. It builds more inclusive communities, fosters empathy, and protects the balance between people, animals, and the environment.
HYPER is more than a project. It is a movement of young people who refuse to accept neglect and exclusion as the norm. We want to prove that solidarity can transform lives, whether human or animal, and that small actions can grow into powerful change.
Who Are We?
HYPER is led by a passionate group of young people from Thessaloniki, Greece. We are united by our love for animals, our commitment to solidarity, and our belief that youth can make a real difference when given the chance to act. Each member of our team brings unique experiences, ideas, and energy, creating a strong foundation for this project.
Our backgrounds are diverse: some of us have grown up with pets and understand the deep bond between humans and animals; others are active in youth work, education, or creative initiatives. Many of us have also faced challenges of inclusion, particularly ADHD, and we know how important it is to feel part of something meaningful. Together, we share the same vision, to protect stray animals, support shelters, and empower young people through action.
Behind our work stands a key ally: Fifty-Fifty, the organization that supports and guides us in turning our ideas into real community impact. Their experience and dedication strengthen our project and help us grow as a team.
We believe that HYPER is more than just a project. It is a team, a community, and a movement for care, empathy, and solidarity.
