Ramps of Solidarity

Towards a More Accessible and Inclusive Kozani

Ramps of Solidarity is a youth-led initiative supported by GO Alive, co-funded by the European Solidarity Corps.

What's our Goals

♿

Remove barriers
in public spaces

🤝

Raise awareness about
disability & inclusion

🧑‍🤝‍🧑

Promote youth civic
engagement through volunteering

The European Solidarity Corps is a European Union initiative that empowers young people to contribute to society through meaningful solidarity projects. At the heart of this mission lies a strong commitment to inclusion and diversity—ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, ability, or identity, has the opportunity to participate fully in social life.

Through the Ramps of Solidarity project, we put these values into action. By addressing physical barriers in public spaces, facilitating inclusive workshops, and encouraging intergenerational dialogue, we aim to promote equal access, representation, and dignity for all. Inclusion is not just about accessibility—it's about belonging. It's about making sure every voice is heard and every individual feels seen and valued.

In collaboration with volunteers from across Europe, we create spaces where young people take the lead in building a more empathetic and equitable society. Diversity is our strength, and inclusion is the path we walk together.

Project Timeline

Kick-off Workshop

The workshop at the GO Alive Educational Center featured interactive sessions, awareness activities, and presentations about the goals of the project.

Workshop session at GO Alive Educational Center

Flash Mob in Kozani

The flash mob featured music, painting, and public surveys in Kozani’s main square, directly involving citizens in the discussion around accessibility and inclusion.

Volunteers interacting with citizens during the flash mob

Mapping Barriers in the City

We explored Kozani’s streets to identify sidewalks and crossings that are difficult or impossible to access for people using wheelchairs. Each location was photographed and mapped to help guide future improvements.

Uneven curb with no ramp

Art of Accessibility at Art Vibe Festival

Our workshop brought together youth, children, and families to reflect on everyday barriers faced by people with disabilities through creative dialogue and collaborative poster-making.

Workshop participants creating their posters

Meeting with the Association of People with Disabilities of the Regional Unit of Kozani

We spoke openly with the Association of People with Disabilities of the Regional Unit of Kozani about the real needs, the daily obstacles, the challenges and our common vision: an accessible, humane Kozani for all.

A meeting with substance and empathy.

Eratyra Bike Race

On Sunday, August 10, 2025, the Eratyra Square was flooded with young cyclists who wore GO Alive hats — a small gift with a big purpose: greater accessibility, solidarity and sustainable mobility for all, through the “Solidarity Ramps”. With every smile, we bring public space closer to vulnerable groups — children, parents, people with disabilities and the elderly. A big thank you to the Municipality of Voios and the Deputy Mayor’s Office for Culture for the “Eratyra Bike Race”, to the volunteers and, above all, to the children and their families who filled the square with energy

The young participants taking part in bike race

3rd Mental Health Festival - Let's get together

We participated in the 3rd Mental Health Festival in the Park of Kozani, where we had an infopoint and we implemented an interactive workshop focused on mental health, accessibility, and inclusion. Participants identified everyday barriers, shared experiences, and collaboratively created a symbolic “bridge of inclusion,” promoting a city that is open, fair, and accessible for everyone. The activity highlighted accessibility as a key element of wellbeing, equality, and social connection.

3rd Mental Health Festival - 05/09/2025

1st Inclusion Fest

Ramps of Solidarity was presented during the 1st Inclusion Fest in the Central Square of Kozani, celebrating inclusion, accessibility, and mental health awareness. Through the GO Alive Info Kiosk and interactive workshop, participants explored how accessibility and inclusion create pathways to equality, wellbeing, and stronger community connections. The event brought people together in a shared celebration of solidarity, understanding, and unity.

Young participants attending our workshop on 1st Inclusion Fest - 12/09/2025

Safe Accessibility & Inclusive Practices Workshop

As part of the Ramps of Solidarity initiative, GO Alive successfully organized a special workshop on Safe Accessibility in Services and Business Practices at the Co-Working Space Western Macedonia. The workshop focused on the importance of accessibility and inclusion in workplaces and services, highlighting good practices from Greece and abroad. Through open dialogue with local businesses and organizations, participants exchanged ideas and practical approaches for creating safer, more inclusive environments and opportunities for all.

Co-Working Space Western Macedonia

Sport, Accessibility & Solidarity in Kozani

In September 2025, the city of Kozani celebrated two important community events that brought together sport, accessibility, inclusion, and active participation for all. On Sunday, 28 September 2025, GO Alive supported the organization of the Lassaneios Road 2025 by offering medals for young participants and children, contributing to a joyful day full of energy, smiles, and the spirit of sportsmanship. Through the Ramps of Solidarity initiative, we highlighted the connection between sport, accessibility, and mental wellbeing, promoting equal participation in community activities. A few days earlier, on Sunday, 21 September 2025, within the framework of the European Mobility Week organized by the Municipality of Kozani, GO Alive also supported the city cycling event by providing small gifts and awareness materials promoting accessibility, solidarity, and sustainable mobility for everyone. These activities reflected our shared vision for more inclusive, accessible, and active communities where everyone can participate equally. We warmly thank the Municipality of Kozani, the Health Runners Association of Kozani, all volunteers, and every participant who made these events memorable and meaningful.

European Mobility Week - Lassaneios Road 2025

Workshop at Onassis Public High School of Kozani

GO Alive had the pleasure of visiting the Onassis High School for an inspiring activity dedicated to accessibility, inclusion, and social awareness. During the visit, students participated in a creative workshop where they designed and illustrated posters promoting accessibility and equal participation for all people in society. Through art, discussion, and teamwork, the students expressed powerful messages about empathy, solidarity, respect, and the importance of creating environments without barriers. The activity encouraged young people to reflect on everyday accessibility challenges and inspired them to become active supporters of inclusion within their school and local community. We warmly thank the students and teachers of Onassis High School for their enthusiasm, creativity, and meaningful participation.

Posters from Onassis Public School students about accessibility

Impact and Results

More than 180 Kozani residents participated in the accessibility questionnaire. The volunteers gathered valuable input to identify obstacles and improve urban mobility.