“The Smile of the Child ,” a non-profit voluntary Organization that deals with the daily problems children encounter in Greece will be awarded the European Citizen’s Prize 2014, an accolade which recognizes exceptional achievements by Europeans.

The organization that was nominated by Potami MEP Miltos Kirkos defends children’s rights, not just on paper but in practice as well, providing services to children on a 24-hour, 7 days a week, 365 days a year-basis, working for their physical, mental, and psychological stability.

“The Smile of the Child” cooperates closely with state authorities (Police, the General Attorney’s Office, hospitals etc.) but also with all responsible individuals wishing to contribute to alleviating issues affecting children.

The European Citizen’s Prize was launched by the Parliament in 2008. It can be given for activities that either facilitate cross-border cooperation within the EU or promote better mutual understanding and closer integration between citizens and member states. It can also be awarded for day-to-day activities reflecting the values enshrined in the EU’s charter of fundamental rights.

The laureates can be citizens, groups, associations or organizations. Every year each MEP has the right to nominate one candidate.

These year’s laureates also include two other Greek organizations: Diogenis NGO, founded in 2010 with the aim of assisting homeless and related vulnerable populations in Greece and The Center for Education and Rehabilitation for the Blind, a legal entity of public law, supervised by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Solidarity (Welfare).