Red Cross honours volunteers at forefront of community service
Photos: Kostas Tsiriggakis
CORFU. Music, excellence, and volunteerism came together at the prestigious graduation ceremony of the Corfu branch of the Hellenic Red Cross.
On Saturday evening, April 18, the Church of Saint George in the Old Fortress provided the setting for one of the most moving events of the year. The Corfu Regional Branch of the Hellenic Red Cross honoured the ‘heart’ of the movement—its volunteers—in a ceremony that combined recognition of their contribution with hope for the future.
The ceremony included diploma awards and volunteer promotions across the Health, Social Welfare, and Samaritans–Rescuers–Lifeguards sectors.
The Red Cross family in Corfu grew larger, welcoming into its ranks individuals who choose contribution as a way of life.
The event was honoured by the presence of the President of the Hellenic Red Cross, Dr. Antonios Avgerinos, while representatives of the political and institutional leadership were also in attendance. Among them were: the Deputy Minister of Shipping, S. Gikas; representatives of the Metropolis; the Ionian Islands Regional Authority (Ms. Anthi and Mr. Kontzialis); the Municipalities of Central and North Corfu (Mr. Skourtis and Ms. Kokkali); the Hospital Director, Ms. Englezopoulou; and the former Mayor, Ms. Ydraiou, as well as heads of the Security Forces (Police and Fire Service) and representatives of scientific and social organisations (Medical Association, POSEA, AHEPA, Lyceum of Greek Women).
The ceremony opened to the sounds of the Corfu Music School, while the ‘Mantzaros’ Philharmonic Society quintet provided musical accompaniment during the presentation of diplomas, concluding the event with the National Anthem under the direction of conductors Mr. Anthi and Mr. Rouvas.
The Administration of the Corfu Regional Branch of the Hellenic Red Cross expresses its warm thanks to the Ephorate of Antiquities for its hospitality, as well as to Mr. Tsiriggakis (photographic coverage) and Mr. Theodorou (sound/lighting) for their impeccable technical support.
"Our Red Cross family has grown. We honoured our volunteers, who are the heart of the movement. I am deeply moved and grateful for the strength of your contribution," stated the leadership of the local branch, sending a message of continued success for the future.
ELENI KORONAKI
