By Sarah Slimp | Individual Donor Manager
Because of your generosity on GlobalGiving, we were able to hold a 14-day autumn session of Voices Camp from October 20 to November 2, 2025, giving 45 children aged 10–15, whose lives have been deeply affected by the war in Ukraine, a safe place to rest, heal, and simply be children.
Among them were orphans, internally displaced children, children of Ukrainian soldiers, and children living in frontline areas. For many, this was one of the few times since the war began that they could feel truly safe, cared for, and free to simply be children.
The camp took place at Nad Cheremoshem in the Chernivtsi region—a peaceful retreat surrounded by the Cheremosh River and forest-covered mountains. Far from explosions and air raid sirens, this natural setting became a space for rest, healing, and new beginnings.
A dedicated camp team of 10 specialists (including psychologists, camp leaders, a coordinator, an administrator, a host, and a doctor) was with the children every step of the way, providing round-the-clock care, safety, and emotional support. Your support made this team, and this level of care, possible.
Program Highlights
The camp program was created with one central goal: to help children feel safe, heard, and hopeful again. Thanks to you, we were able to offer a rich combination of emotional support, creativity, movement, learning, and cultural connection.
1. Psychological Support
Every day, children took part in sessions with trained psychologists who helped them talk about their experiences, name their feelings, and learn new ways of coping with fear, grief, and anxiety.
One participant, Karina, shared:
“The most valuable thing for me at the camp was the support from the psychologists, who helped me open up. I learned to show my pain and tears. Before, I used to be ashamed of it, but now I understand there’s nothing wrong with it.”
Moments like this, when a child realizes they don’t have to hide their pain, are possible because people like you choose to care.
2. Creativity and Self-Expression
Children joined creative workshops where they could:
Draw and paint
Make crafts and handmade art
Take part in theater and movement activities
Write stories and journal
These creative spaces became gentle, safe ways for children to let emotions out, build self-confidence, and feel proud of what they created.
3. Sports and Outdoor Activities
Surrounded by nature, children had the chance to:
Play outdoor games and sports
Explore the camp grounds
Take part in team-building activities
For children who have spent months or years under threat, running, laughing, and playing outdoors without fear is a powerful step toward feeling alive and free again.
4. Intellectual Development
We also included games, quizzes, and learning modules that helped children stay curious and engaged. These activities reminded them that it is still possible to learn, grow, and dream about their future, even during war.
5. Ukrainian Culture & Identity
A special focus of this autumn camp was Ukrainian culture and identity. Children:
Celebrated themed days dedicated to Ukrainian historical figures
Took part in workshops on traditional music, cuisine, and crafts
Learned about local traditions and stories
Joined excursions exploring the region’s history and nature
These experiences helped strengthen their sense of belonging and pride in being Ukrainian, which is especially important for children who have been displaced or separated from their homes.
Impact
Because of your support, the autumn session of Voices Camp became much more than just a holiday. It became a place where children could:
Build new friendships and feel less alone
Develop emotional resilience and healthier ways to cope
Discover new talents and interests
Experience joy, stability, and routine despite the ongoing war
Feel connected to their culture, community, and country
Help the next Voices Camp possible.
Your contribution helps us reach more children who are waiting for support, safety, and the chance to heal.
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