Support Program for Volunteer Forest Firefighting Teams
Standing by the volunteers — now for two more years.
Recognizing the vital role that volunteer forest fire protection teams play in preventing and mitigating the devastating impact of wildfires, Desmos, in collaboration with WWF Greece and HIGGS (Higher Incubator Giving Growth & Sustainability), implemented the Volunteer Forest Fire Protection Support Program (2022–2024). The program aimed to train, empower, and equip volunteer firefighting teams across Greece, highlighting once again the invaluable contribution of the people who selflessly operate on the frontlines every fire season.
The program’s impact was particularly evident during the 2023 and 2024 fire seasons, when 47 of the 50 supported teams played a pivotal role in combating major wildfires in Attica, Corinth, Rhodes, and Evros, using the equipment provided and the skills gained through training workshops. Additional resources were also mobilized to support teams responding to areas affected by both the wildfires and floods of 2023.
The program’s design and execution were rooted in the long-standing and urgent needs of these volunteer teams — for both equipment and training: two essential tools that allow them to operate safely and effectively in protecting Greece’s forests and citizens.
The donation of companion armchairs offered much-needed comfort and support to parents and caregivers staying beside their hospitalized children. The opportunity for rest greatly helps reduce their physical and emotional fatigue, allowing them to provide better care and support.
2024–2026: Second Cycle – Expanding Impact
The new two-year, upgraded, and particularly ambitious program to support and train volunteer forest fire protection teams (2024-2026) is supported by the National Bank of Greece, the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, and the Athina I. Martinos Foundation.
The objective of the second cycle of the Program is to further upgrade volunteer forest fire protection teams nationwide so that they can operate in a coordinated and safe manner to suppress forest fires by providing specialized equipment with an emphasis on the preparation and activation of volunteer foot patrols, as well as training in more specialized forest firefighting topics through experiential education workshops. At the same time, it includes additional training activities for local communities on the content and planning of prevention actions, as well as active interventions in the public dialogue aimed at implementing the relevant legislation and further strengthening social participation in the fight against forest fires.
The program focuses on:
Providing advanced firefighting equipment, with emphasis on preparing and activating organized volunteer ground units.
Offering specialized training, through: Hands-on workshops in 10 selected regions on the operation and organization of volunteer forest firefighting units, online prevention seminars for local authorities and the public and creation of a digital hub for networking and knowledge sharing among volunteer fire protection teams nationwide.
Engaging in public dialogue by submitting evidence-based policy recommendations, monitoring implementation of the legal framework, and advocating for the full activation and integration of volunteer groups within the national civil protection mechanism.
Volunteer forest fire protection teams are among the most active actors of Greece’s civil society. Supporting them is not only necessary but essential — enabling them to continue safeguarding our forests and strengthening local communities against the growing threat of wildfires.
