Julia Eliopoulos studied abroad at the American College of Thessaloniki in Greece during the spring semester of 2015. As part of a community service program, she volunteered weekly at K.E.P.E.P., a rehabilitation center for children and adults with special needs. Julia worked directly with one patient for 2-3 hours per week, helping with activities and keeping them engaged. The director of international programs at ACT stated that K.E.P.E.P. presented difficulties due to language barriers, but Julia showed compassion, dedication, creativity, and courage in her work with the patients.

1. November 12, 2014
To whom it may concern,
This is to verify that Julia Eliopoulos was a study abroad student at the American College of Thessaloniki, in
Greece, for the duration of the spring semester of 2015 (months February to June). While studying at ACT Julia
also took part in the Community Service Learning Program at ACT; she volunteered on a weekly basis at a non-governmental
institution called K.P.E.P.
K.E.P.E.P. is a recovery and rehabilitation center for children and young adults with special needs. The center
offers residential care for a good number of patients. As an open care center for people with disabilities and
special needs, the center also offers training programs, support and awareness for family and friends.
Julia worked at the center for 2-3 hours per week and she was assigned to befriend and pay special attention
to one particular patient. She helped her assigned patient during afternoon hours, trying to involve them in
the planned activities of the day. When this was not possible she spent time with her patient reading books,
playing music, and generally doing creative activities that the patient could engage in.
This is by far one of the toughest service sites that our students volunteer at and for Julia to take this on and
manage despite the language barrier that she faced is a true feat. It took compassion, dedications, ingenuity,
resourcefulness and courage on her part, all of which contributed to her becoming a much respected and
sought after member of the K.E.P.E.P. team.
Sincerely,
Arian Kotsi
Director of International Programs
American College of Thessaloniki
Email: akotsi@act.edu