Students Spread Holiday Cheer to Refugee Families in Athens

On Dec. 11, Odyssey in Athens Study Abroad and local students, under the direction of the Office of Student Affairs, once again coordinated a holiday party for refugee children at the Caritas Refugee Center in Athens. 

Students Faith Boeve and Caitlyn Parmuk-Volk shopping gifts for refugee children at a local toy store in Athens.

Preparation for the event began a month earlier, led by Study Abroad students Caitlyn Parmuk-Volk, a junior physical therapy WINS student from SLU, and Faith Boeve, a junior History student from Webster University. Parmuk-Volk launched a GoFundMe campaign, gathering donations from family, friends and Odyssey in Athens alumni, many of whom had previously organized the same event during their Study Abroad experience. The funds were used to purchase toys, decorations, arts and craft supplies, food, beverages, entertainment and holiday treats for the party. 

“I love organizing things like this,” Parmuk-Volk said. “I had so much fun shopping, fundraising, decorating, putting bags together and even working at the party. I was so happy people volunteered their time to help us, as well. I am so glad how the party turned out. Initially, I was nervous that no one would donate, but everyone’s friends and family did a fantastic job of spreading the word, and we got so many great donations. Without each of these people this party couldn’t have happened, and I am so thankful we got to have this experience. It was so worth it to see how happy and excited the little kids were at the end of the night. I have taken so much from this experience and can’t wait to talk about it for many years to come. It made me feel like I was doing something good for the world while I got to travel and do things for myself, as well.” 

Students preparing gift bags.

The students created a fun-filled day with activities and entertainment for the children and their families, who fled their home countries due to violence and war and are now seeking refuge in Greece. Some students were enrolled in a Community Service Learning course and volunteered at the refugee center during their semester abroad. The holiday event served as a culmination of their study abroad experience. 

Ross Ramirez, a senior Film, TV and Video Production student from Webster, was among the students who enrolled in the course. “Volunteering at Caritas was a very valuable experience for me,” Ramirez said. Working in the soup kitchen and clothing distribution, I felt like I was a part of a larger force that was able to help more people than I could have ever done on my own. It also pushed me out of my comfort zone. Through teaching an English class, I was able to be beneficial in a way I never imagined I'd be able to.” 

Students create face paintings for refugee children in the arts and crafts room.

Approximately 80 children and their parents attended the event, where the center was transformed into a festive space with holiday decorations and music. A large room was dedicated to arts and crafts, featuring stations for face painting, holiday card making, ornament decorating, holiday-themed coloring and activity pages. Children rotated through the activities while their parents mingled in an adjacent room, enjoying coffee, tea and traditional Greek holiday treats. The event provided a rare opportunity for parents to socialize. 

Toto the Clown delights children and their families with magic tricks, songs and creative balloon designs.

The highlight of the day was a performance by Toto the Clown, who captivated the children with magic tricks, songs and unique balloon creations. Children, parents and students enjoyed his performance, which included singing, dancing and plenty of laughter. Following the show, pizza was served, filling the room with chatter and joy as everyone shared food, stories and smiles. 

Santa (Joey Mrazek) hands out gift bags to refugee children that were prepared by the students.

As the event came to a close, Santa, played by Joey Mrazek, a senior Political Science and Nutrition WINS student from SLU, made a grand entrance with gift bags prepared by the students. The children’s eyes sparkled with delight as they received their presents, bringing the day to a heartwarming conclusion. 

“This holiday party reminded everyone that no matter our backgrounds, we can come together in celebration, sharing, joy, kindness, and community spirit,” Boeve said. “Creating a holiday party for refugee families was a beautiful tapestry of joy, laughter and connection, reminding us that together we can weave a brighter future. It was also a powerful reminder that love and kindness know no borders.” 

Santa, played by Joey Mrazek, with Caitlyn Parmuk-Volk, left, and Faith Boeve who took the lead to host the event.

 “I am very proud of our students, especially Caitlyn and Faith, who came forward and took the lead to host this very special day for the refugee children and their parents at Caritas Hellas,” said Director of Student Affairs, Dina Skias. “A great deal of planning and coordination went into this event. We are grateful to all who contributed, and the students who participated did an outstanding job creating a fun-filled day for the children. They showed the true spirit of Webster University by contributing to the community in this manner and positively impacting the children and their families. This day will be remembered by all. Happy holidays to everyone.”