The data for the reconstruction of genealogical trees mainly originates from the printed or electronic Genealogical Tree Report which is sent or given to all interested members of the public that visit us or submit the participation form. After an initial check the completed Reports are filed in the Register of the Department where they are classified by a unique registration number.

The data of each form is imported in the computer in the special genealogy software Reunion 7 and it is also kept in separate electronic archives as well as in group archives filed according to place of origin or settlement or the institution via which we collect the data, Local Authorities, associations, etc.

Afterwards, an effort to cross-check the data of the new tree with data already submitted to the Project by other families or processed by archival sources is made. In case genealogical trees coincide or complement each other, after all interested parties are informed and have given their consent and a connection is confirmed, the trees are unified and the data is kept in a single electronic file. The process of completion and correction of genealogical tree is continuous and everybody is given the opportunity to be informed about the course of their genealogical tree and to offer information on its development with a message, letter or even simple call.

We also follow a similar procedure when we process data from historical files or institutional bodies. A big emphasis is placed on the connection of sources that trace a group of people horizontally in time with the family Reports which project the historical development of each family. For a more thorough presentation of persons, families and the communities to which they belong, we combine the collection of genealogical trees with digitalized historical evidences, autobiographies and interviews which retrieve precious information.

The information on genealogical trees mainly originates from the recollections of family members and close relatives or community members who carry the role of the guardian of family memory. Important information is derived from genealogical trees that have been drawn in the past by those interested or from short chronicles and descriptions of family members with basic biographical information. Precious but often forgotten in a drawer, are the personal documents of family members, like identity documents, christening, marriage and death certificates, booklets, various educational levels study certificates, and other documents written in greek, ottoman, or other languages.

Also, of great interest are letters and photographs of family members, particularly in the form postcards (carte postale). In the case of tradesmen, businessmen, self employed professionals, teachers and priests, important data can be found on business logos, issued documents or in business and civic guides of their area as well as in the Press.

All this data forms a precious collection that can be digitalized so as to illustrate the family history through the "My History" program.

Beyond family limits, our research should be directed to Local Authorities Organizations and Church institutions which are responsible for keeping register archives, citizen catalogues, marriage, christening and death records, as well as special refugee records and older electoral district registers. Data of great importance to the reconstitution of families of entire communities is kept in the archives of reception and refugee rehabilitation institutions, as well as in the archives of older refugee societies and associations. Precious archival material is kept in the Headquarters and in branch offices of the General State Archives as well as in the archives of Prefectural and Regional Authorities.

The FHW ensures, those who participate in the Project that the submitted information is used solely for the purposes of the project.