Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How did the Lydia Initiative begin?
The Lydia Initiative began as a movement... in Greece, helping Greeks —living with economic crisis— to help Refugees.
In times of crisis, we cannot neglect the “host” country. Even though the Greeks are also in crisis, they have a huge heart to love & help refugees in need. We want to encourage, empower, and support them too.
While we were investing in these women’s lives through language, health training, child care etc. we saw that the movement of boldness and empowerment could spread across the globe!
With the help of other women in the community, our initiative flourished in Greece and can continue to help women across the globe!
Q. Can you tell us some stories of the women that have been a part of the Lydia Initiative?
"Yes! These stories are so powerful and already we have seen SO much growth in these women!”
Dalia, an Advocate For Refugee Women In Greece where she has lived most of her adult life. She is able to connect refugee women with different resources using her language skills and empathetic heart. The Lydia Initiative helps give her the means to provide language classes, health seminars, childcare and many other resources for these women.
Maria, a Greek Fashion Designer lost her job in the economic crisis. While she was struggling during this time, The Lydia Initiative was able to help her get back on her feet and invest in her business. She is now thriving in the fashion industry and wanting to help others as well.
“K” a Syrian Refugee and Single Mom was struggling to find a means to provide for her 4 children. By being a part of the Lydia Initiative, she has learned how to crochet and is making hand bags to sell as a basic source of income.
Q. What do you hope to see happen in the lives of these women because of the Lydia Initiative?
Ultimately, we hope that The Lydia Initiative will help other women Be Bold, Inspired, and Empowered!
We want to build community with women, whether that be online or in their own local communities. This way we can share stories with each other so those that are struggling are able to listen and those that have gone through these crises can have closure and help others.
No matter what each women is going through, we want them to know they are not alone. That they have something to offer regardless of their situation, race, or culture.
Q. What are some of the ways someone can get involved with the Lydia Initiative?
*BECOME AN ADVOCATE: Offer your time, resources, or skills that you have learned over the course of your life to help others.
Whether this is to volunteer your time to sit down with a women who is struggling with being abused, offering your skills of nursing to provide wellness visits for people that can’t afford it, or providing online resources for first time moms that are struggling with breastfeeding.
Every woman has a talent and is helpful, so why not help others with the talents you have been given? Reach out to us through our “Take Action” tab
*IN NEED OF RESOURCES: You have been searching for community and just feel alone and struggling with certain aspects of your life. We thrive when we are supported and encouraged. There are resources that The Lydia Initiative has on our website or other advocates that have volunteered to help.
Whatever you are struggling with, or just want community….you can reach out to us through our “Take Action” tab to tell us more about what you need or go to our “Resources” tab to find what you are looking for.
*SPREAD THE MOVEMENT: You want to be involved but are more of an encourager! Use your social media platforms to tag #TheLydiaInitiative to spread awareness and empower other women. Also, you can reach out to the women around you and tell them about this movement. Maybe they are looking for resources or they have skills that they would like to offer. By spreading this movement….WE CAN CHANGE THE WORLD!
*DONATE: You just want to be a silent advocate but want to help in someway. Donations go directly towards helping empower the women in this movement and with the upkeep of spreading this initiative across the globe!