Creation of a development center for youth

Our team continues systematic work with children and teenagers in the city of Mykolaiv. In the context of increased social and psychological pressure caused by the ongoing war, it is especially important for young people to have access to a safe and supportive space where they can develop, communicate, and receive guidance. This is the core focus of our activities.

On a regular basis, we organize 2–3 activities per week for teenagers at our office. Sessions are held in small groups of 6 to 10 participants, which allows for individual attention and the creation of a trusting and inclusive environment. Our activities include creative workshops, meetings with psychologists, interactive games, group exercises, and other formats aimed at strengthening social, emotional, and communication skills.

We continuously assess the needs of young people and respond promptly to their requests. Recently, we have received a growing number of inquiries regarding training courses and workshops focused on artificial intelligence and digital tools. At the same time, we recognize that alongside the many opportunities offered by the internet and modern technologies, the digital environment also presents significant risks, particularly in times of war.

For this reason, in parallel with developing digital competencies, we consistently conduct informational sessions on digital literacy, computer and internet hygiene, online safety, critical information analysis, and personal data protection. This integrated approach helps young people not only acquire new skills, but also develop a responsible and conscious attitude toward the online environment.

An additional focus of our work has been the introduction of culinary workshops for teenagers. These activities help participants develop practical life skills, foster responsibility and independence, and provide a space for informal communication and teamwork, strengthening social connections among young people.

We also observe a high level of engagement and interest from participants. Over the past two months, 23 teenagers aged 14 to 19 visited our office for the first time and joined our activities. This clearly demonstrates both the relevance of our work and the growing demand for a permanent youth space in Mykolaiv.

Based on this experience and continuous feedback from participants, the establishment of a fully functioning Youth Center represents a logical and necessary next step. Such a center will allow us to expand our reach, scale up programs, engage specialized professionals, and create a sustainable system of support for young people in the city.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all partners, donors, and supporters who believe in our mission and stand with us during these challenging times. Your trust and support make it possible for us not only to continue our current work, but also to take the next crucial step — creating a Youth Center that will become a long-term investment in the resilience, safety, and future of young people in Mykolaiv.