Ukraine Culture Fest 2025 proudly supports a recovery project in Novohryhorivka, Ukraine - a village where 95% of residential buildings and all administrative structures were destroyed during the Russian occupation.

For years, local children have been confined to online learning, with no safe place to gather, play, or learn together. Determined to change this, local youth repurposed one of the few remaining community buildings - the village library - into a Youth Center where they can socialize, create art, and play.

Thanks to community volunteers, the center’s interior is fully restored and now hosts daily creative activities. Local teacher and activist Lidiia shares:

“This gave me a new life, built on the ruins of my old one, even my own home. Now I wake up with purpose. Each day, I organize activities for children - we craft, play, and connect. I’ll never forget seeing how Dima held scissors for the first time to make something with his own hands. Before this, no one had spent that kind of time with him. It inspires me to keep going and bring change to my community.”

The next step: Repair the damaged exterior and build an outdoor playground for over 100 children and teens from Novohryhorivka and nearby villages.

The community already has volunteers ready to work and some materials secured - they only need additional building supplies. Local teens are eager to help lead activities, making this a youth-driven space for healing, play, and rebuilding community life. 

Goal: $5,000 to complete exterior repairs and build a safe outdoor space
Donate via GlobalGiving

Your support will help provide:

• Building materials for exterior repairs

• Playground equipment

• Basic furniture (tables, chairs)

Impact:

• 100+ children gain access to a safe place to play and learn

• 20+ teens empowered as community leaders

• 50+ families benefit from a shared space for connection and recovery

Help us restore joy, safety, and hope for Ukrainian youth!

Useful Links:

Video about this project (in Ukrainian)

News coverage (in Ukrainian)