Programs
Based on our competences and ‘needs assements’, we’ve identified these programs as the ones best suited to develop further in a pilot project. Due to the situation we are still open to developing new programs, based on needs and collaborations.
Even though we’ve achieved some degree of experience and knowledge, our goal is to level up our efforts, starting with the pilot project, and expanding to other YMCA’s in Ukraine.
Context, approach & methods
Context
Today Ukraine faces the continued full-scale war started by Russia, and there are no signs of a desired de-escalation. Active on-land military actions, keep going in the east and south of Ukraine. Russian air missiles are shelled continuously all over the country, including central and western regions. Meanwhile, in Lviv (western Ukraine) the volunteering movement keeps supporting those affected by the war. Since 24th February 2022, over 40.000 people (mostly men) have been mobilised to the army in the Lviv region. However, even being shelled from air, Lviv remains one of the safest large cities in Ukraine. Nowadays, it provides both assistance to those fleeing the war and support to defence volunteers and army forces. City location in proximity to the Polish border provides a flexibility and availability of mobile volunteer groups.
In the social context, our interventions will foster the social environment and renew the fragile connections between the various civil society organisations. We need to restore and reinforce the networking in the society and, hence, need to unite and partner to be solid and standing-up. In the current situation it needs resources to overcome the fragility of our target audiences since veterans and volunteering youth have lost their employment, social contacts, skills to provide self-care, understanding own development and vision after full-invasion in Feb 2022. Our interventions help to reintegrate them and feel useful in a new system of social coordinates.
In the economic context, veterans and youth will receive a full cycle of involvement – to express oneself in art and civil initiatives, to share own story, to undergo interaction back in the safe environment, to receive recognition and societal reward for own product, and possibility to communicate out and distribute the made product with the others. Such cycles provide full reintegration and new experiences to young people and veterans. Methodologically, our programs are based on such cycles of recovery and reintegration.
In political context, we operate in the environment of an unclear system of political coordinates and lack of trust between society sectors – government, media, business and grass-roots civil organisations. In this situation, it is important to orient, connect and inform our target audiences on the quality and non-fake services. Our intervention will provide the services referral system and proof check it for validity and quality.
Approach principles
- User-centered approach (Veteran co-creation)
It is important to involve veterans in the actual development of each program. Veterans themselves bring an unique perspective as their experiences, and the fallout of these experiences, is something only they can fully comprehend. At the same time, they are the ones who will eventually become primary users of recreational spaces veteran support programs.
- Adapting to the context of civil society in Ukraine
As a country deeply affected by the transition from the soviet era, it is important to be aware of the difficulties civil society in Ukraine faces. This is especially pressing, when it comes to trust in authorities, government and non-government organisations. Before implementing any concepts from civil societies of other countries, it is necessary to adjust them to the contr context, where a large challenge is gaining trust in an organisation, and ensuring that ‘membership’ or volunteering, will not entail surrending ones voice and personal agency.
- Working long-term in a war-torn country
Doing CSO work in a country with an on-going war, raises some difficult challenges. For one, any long-term planning is virtually impossible to rely on, due to the unpredictable nature of the working environment. There is a constant threat of the war escalating further into the country, followed by uncertainty of available resources and locations. However, we do our best to maintain an effort, by focusing on the things we can do here and now.
Our approach is to still to do something, despite the circumstances. The most realistic way forward is to work on short-term programs, with a long-term goal of building organisation capacity. Therefore our current focus is to gain experience, insights, and knowledge that is necessary before scaling up the effort.
- Let’s try to do what CSO’s are best at
Managing the role of a civil society organisation in a country at war, is not easy to balance. Traditionally, CSO’s act effectively in a coordinating role, by creating network and community. It is absolutely essential that we collaborate with organisations from different sectors, e.g. healthcare, hospitals, etc. to ensure that primary needs for veterans and civilians are met. Once this criteria is fulfilled, we can then provide rehabilitative support and community.
Methodology
Needs Assessment
- Field study, involving meetings with partners and interviews with veterans and their families.
Data-collection
- Learnings are documented in a needs analysis (report) and form the basis for further data collection. This report and subsequent data collection are utilized during the project seminar in Denmark to align ourselves with the final project direction.
- The final project clearly and specifically addresses the needs that have become evident throughout the process.
Pilot Project
- The specific goal is to develop a pilot project that addresses the identified needs of the selected beneficiaries over a period of 3-4 years. The hope is that this pilot project will serve as a model that can be scaled and implemented in other YMCA local branches in Ukraine.
- The mentioned project seminar will specifically aim to outline the concrete project in order to seek funding. Funding opportunities for a project like this have already been identified (New Democracy Fund and Civic Society in Development, as per the timeline with approximate deadlines).
Evaluation
- Assesment of key findings and insights gained from the Pilot project. Outcome of programs are held up against the initial needs analysis, to determine how effectively the needs have been addressed.
Organisation and Upscaling
- Coordinating the resources (knowledge, network, insights) gained, and organising the scaling of the effort to other YMCA’s in the country.
Voices of Warriors
Voices of Warriors is an innovative rehabilitation initiative combining storytelling and art therapy for veterans. In “Warrior Stories,” participants collaboratively craft narratives, with selected stories published in magazines and translated for international audiences. Some of the stories will also be adapted into short films, co-created by veteran teams. Psychologist-led sessions provide mental health support while fostering personal growth.
A team consisting of famous writers, editors, representatives of publishing agencies, and PR specialists will be gathered, to collaborate with the veterans. They will assist them with everything from stylistic choices, to translation and finally publication in three languages (Ukrainian, Danish and English).
Program Features
- Rehabilitation through Storytelling and Art Therapy:
Participants, guided by experts, collaborate to create personal stories that reflect their experiences. These stories are then published and presented at the end of the program. - Short Film Development:
Some stories will be chosen to be developed into short films, produced by teams consisting of veterans, actors, and filmmaking experts. - Psychologist-led Creativity Session:
Psychologists will actively participate in creativity sessions, offering support and guidance to help veterans open up during the storytelling and art therapy activities. - “Songs of the War” – Art-Therapy Meetings and Performances:
Music and drama performances, inspired by the stories created in the program, will be organized to celebrate the resilience of veterans and promote healing through the arts - International Collaboration:
Collaborate with International partners, to organise an performances abroad (e.g. Opera Myth Performance in Denmark).
Opera Myth – “Terra Incognita” series
- The video from “Opera Myth – Ukraine Terra Incognita” series, organized by YMCA Lviv, captures a heartfelt tribute to Wassyl Slipak, an opera singer turned soldier who died defending Ukraine in 2014. Led by prominent singers, the project honors Slipak’s memory and his dedication to Ukrainian culture. Supported by various organisations and individuals, the projecet weaves together music and remembrance, portraying the resilience of Ukrainian warriors. Through collaborative efforts with veterans, the project ensures Slipak’s legacy continues as a symbol of Ukraine’s enduring spirit.
“Derevyanko” (Woodman)
- “Derevyanko”, or Woodman, is the culmination of a previous program, led by YMCA Lviv in collaboration with veterans. By engaging a group of ATO-veterans in crafting a 4-meter wooden puppet for street performances, the project brought joy to citizens of all ages. Symbolizing the inherent goodness within us, despite our material form, the puppet spreads a powerful message of altruism. Through its creation process and performances, the veterans found solace and purpose, while benefiting their families and the community around them. Its appearance in Park of Culture and Recreation of Lviv, coincided with Christmas caroling, an event that united children from Stanytsya Luhanska and veterans who defended their hometown in 2014-15.
Veteran Family Camps
By drawing upon extensive international experience with camps, YMCA Lviv is planning several Veteran Family Camps in Lviv. These camps are specially developed to meet the unique needs of veterans and their families, providing a supportive environment for all participants. Inspired by previous successful youth camps, the Veteran Family Camps aim to offer a blend of recreational activities and psycho-social support in a facilitated manner.
Program Features
- Tailored Activities:
Activities designed for each family member, including veterans, their partners, and children, ensuring engagement and support for all. - Safe refuge:
The camps provide a safe and nurturing environment for participants to relax, connect, and heal. - Rehabilitation and Recreation:
Blend of recreational activities and rehabilitation programs to promote holistic well-being. - Psychosocial Support:
Facilitated sessions offering psychosocial support for veterans and their families, guided by experienced professionals. - Experience Integration:
Drawing upon the success of previous camps and incorporating lessons learned from the “Camps” program to enrich the camp experience.
Community Singing for Well-being Program
The “Community Singing for Well-being Program” includes both past and planned events organized by YMCA Lviv. The purpose is to promote cultural projects focused on Ukrainian traditional singing, which is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure. Examples include “Ukraine Terra Incognita,” “Circle of the Heaven,” and “Songs of the War.” Through these projects, participants and audiences alike experience a sense of community, fostering Ukrainian identity and preserving cultural heritage.
Additionally, cultural leaders from YMCA Lviv extend their expertise beyond traditional singing projects. They provide art-therapy sessions, training, and singing exercises as part of broader interventions targeting veterans and their families, as well as children and youth in the Lviv area.
Program Features
- Cultural Projects: Facilitation of cultural projects focused on Ukrainian traditional singing, promoting community cohesion and preserving cultural heritage.
- Community Engagement: Involvement of participants and audiences in cultural events to foster a sense of belonging and pride in Ukrainian identity and culture.
- Art Therapy and Training: Provision of art therapy meetings, training sessions, and singing exercises led by YMCA Lviv’s cultural leaders to support the well-being of veterans, their families, and local youth.
- Holistic Support: Integration of singing exercises and cultural activities into broader interventions aimed at promoting well-being and resilience in the community.
This program seeks to leverage the power of community singing and cultural projects to enhance well-being, preserve cultural heritage, and foster a sense of identity and belonging among participants in the Lviv area.
“Echoes of war”
- “Echoes of War”, presents a performative exploration of the enduring reverberations of war. The first act, ‘The echo,’ was made through collaboration with artists including singer Olga Balandyukh and videographer Andriy Kravchuk. The performance sought to confront indifference and highlight the voices of those affected by war. “Echoes of War” is a part of the #VolunteersofLviv project, highlights the impact of war-induced displacement on Ukrainian identity. As echoes of war permeate all forms of expression, it becomes imperative to speak out and challenge the discomfort that war brings to a peaceful world.
- The project, supported by YMCA Lviv, UN Women, and the UN Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Aid Fund, aims to strengthen the resilience of volunteering women in addressing conflict and crises.
Upcoming projects
The following programs are currently being planned or developed.
Veteran Café in Lviv
The Veteran Café (Safe Space) in Lviv is a proposed community-driven initiative aimed at providing a supportive and comfortable environment for military veterans. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by those who have served their country, this project seeks to establish a welcoming café where veterans can connect, share experiences, and build a sense of camaraderie.
Program Features
- Safe and Inclusive Atmosphere:
- The café will be designed as a safe space, free of judgment, where veterans from various backgrounds can gather to relax and engage with one another.
- Inclusivity is a top priority, fostering an environment that welcomes veterans of all ages, branches, and roles.
- Peer Support Programs:
- Implement peer support programs that encourage veterans to share their experiences and offer support to one another.
- Trained facilitators will be available to guide discussions, ensuring a positive and constructive atmosphere.
- Therapeutic Services:
- Collaborate with mental health professionals to provide on-site counseling services and resources.
- Workshops and group therapy sessions will be offered to address specific challenges faced by veterans, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and transition issues.
- Job Placement and Skill Development:
- Partner with local businesses to create job placement programs for veterans seeking employment.
- Offer skill development workshops, training sessions, and career counseling to enhance veterans’ professional prospects.
- Community Outreach and Events:
- Organize community events, such as art exhibitions, guest speaker series, and social gatherings, to strengthen the bond between veterans and the wider community.
- Engage in outreach programs to raise awareness about veterans’ issues and foster a sense of understanding and support.
- Café Operations:
- The café will serve as a hub for social interaction, offering a comfortable setting with a variety of food and beverage options.
- Emphasize a veteran-friendly employment policy, providing job opportunities for veterans within the café.
Veteran Business Support
“Veterans Entrepreneurship Empowerment Program” is a transformative initiative dedicated to supporting veterans in their journey towards successful entrepreneurship. Recognizing the challenges veterans often face in transitioning to civilian life, especially in employment, this program aims to empower them through business development support.
Program Features
- Business Plan Development: Tailored assistance in developing robust business plans for veteran-led start-ups, guided by experienced mentors.
- Financial Support: Provision of mini grants to support the implementation of business plans, addressing financial barriers veterans may encounter.
- International Collaboration: Formation of an international team to provide dedicated support and leverage diverse perspectives and resources.
- Fundraising Initiatives: Launch of targeted fundraising campaigns to secure financial backing for veteran-led ventures, fostering sustainable funding channels.