In mid-August, Razom for Ukraine and the Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU) launched a transformative Summer School on organizational development, drawing civil society leaders from across Ukraine to Lviv for a week-long program aimed at bolstering their organizations during these critical times. Held from August 11 to 17, 2024, this initiative brought together a diverse array of dedicated leaders from all corners of Ukraine, each focused on creating positive, lasting impacts within their communities amid the challenges of war.
The participants came from organizations committed to:
- Delivering humanitarian aid to frontline and recently de-occupied areas
- Coordinating evacuations for civilians in conflict zones near the front line
- Supporting families with children, organizing extracurricular and recreational activities
- Assisting families of fallen soldiers
- Advancing educational development efforts
- Preserving cultural heritage and celebrating regional cultures
- Assisting frontline healthcare institutions under wartime conditions
- Offering psychological support for frontline communities, families in crisis, and internally displaced persons (IDPs)
- Promoting women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and supporting women during the war
- Shaping youth policy at the local level
- Developing entrepreneurial opportunities for veterans and IDPs
A Unique Selection Process for a Diverse Group
Razom selected participants through an open call, carefully choosing five grantees with a focus on diversity. The selection criteria included gender balance, a range of activities and experiences, and varying team sizes. This diversity fostered a dynamic environment where participants could learn from one another, establish new networks, and explore partnerships that will extend well beyond the Summer School.
Learning, Networking, and Strategic Development
During the week, participants attended sessions on organizational policies, strategies, partnership building, communications, and fundraising. Special guest speakers—including historians, political scientists, and contemporary thought leaders—were also invited to offer broader perspectives, enriching the learning experience and reinforcing participants’ motivations to serve their communities and contribute to Ukraine’s future.
Feedback from participants reflects the program’s lasting impact:
- “I’ve already started applying what I learned and sharing it with my team.”
- “This training changed my approach—I now work more strategically and with greater clarity.”
- “Since the Summer School, we’ve launched three new projects and drafted an operational plan.”
- “It was inspiring to be among such experienced and passionate community leaders.”
- “The atmosphere was welcoming, and we’ve stayed connected, sharing insights and ideas.”
One participant’s message captured the essence of the program’s transformative effect:
“I want to thank Razom for Ukraine for organizing this program. Since the Summer School, our team has undergone transformations in communications, fundraising, and strategy. You achieved your goal!”
Looking Forward: New Opportunities for Summer School Graduates
Since August, Razom has been working to create follow-up opportunities for Summer School graduates. Plans include mentorship programs and grants for institutional support, providing these leaders with additional resources to strengthen their organizations. By nurturing the growth of Ukraine’s civil society, Razom and UCU are helping build a future where local organizations are equipped to meet the needs of their communities, paving the way for a resilient Ukraine.
With these new programs in place, the legacy of the Summer School will continue to inspire and empower civil society leaders to forge ahead with confidence, resilience, and unity.
Together, we are building a brighter future for Ukrainians through education and support.
Stay tuned for more updates and stories from Razom Relief.