Innovating for the Future: Razom for Ukraine and Himera Radios

Published: October 6, 2024

Since 2022, Razom has delivered over $100 million worth of humanitarian aid and programming in Ukraine. When procuring and delivering life-saving aid and technologies, we prioritize buying items made in Ukraine. We are dedicated to advancing Ukraine’s economy and technological potential by purchasing and distributing innovative Ukrainian-made products that drive progress and save lives. A prime example is Razom’s role as “early-adopter” of Himera radios, cutting-edge communication technology developed by Ukrainian engineers.

Supporting Life-Saving Technology
Himera radios are designed to ensure reliable communication in emergency scenarios. These high-quality devices provide dependable connections in challenging conditions, making them essential for first responders. Razom has purchased more than 2100 Himera radios, playing a meaningful role in launching this life-saving technology, which is now making waves in international markets.

Recently, Himera presented their latest G1 Pro L radios, and our Razom team had the opportunity to test them. The field tests were highly successful, confirming the reliability and effectiveness of Himera radios.

The success of Himera showcases how Ukrainian developers create products that compete globally and positively impact the economy. Misha Rudominski, Himera’s co-founder, emphasized the importance of our support: “We are incredibly grateful to Razom. Their support has allowed us to continue developing new versions of our radios, significantly enhancing our capabilities.”

📹 Watch our interview with Misha Rudominski to learn more about Himera’s development and work with Razom:

Impact on Emergency Response and Economic Growth
Himera radios are engineered to meet the demands of modern emergencies, including field and disaster scenarios. Their durability, multifunctionality, and reliability make them indispensable for first responders, volunteers, and civilians. Beyond their immediate applications, Himera radios contribute to the growth of Ukraine’s high-tech sector, creating jobs and inspiring other start-ups.

When Razom delivers on our program goals, we make an effort to “buy Ukrainian” because we believe that supporting local innovation is significant for Ukraine’s economic growth. By purchasing goods and services from domestic producers, we preserve jobs, stimulate local business development, and strengthen the national economy. Supporting Himera radios is a step towards contributing to a secure, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine.

Explore more about Himera at himeratech.com.

To support Razom’s efforts and help Ukraine, please donate today.

Razom for Ukraine Named in Forbes Ukraine’s Top 10 List of Nonprofits

Published: September 25, 2024

We’re proud to announce that Forbes Ukraine has ranked Razom for Ukraine 8th in its list of the Top 50 nonprofit organizations in Ukraine for 2023. This recognition highlights our ongoing efforts in providing humanitarian aid, supporting Ukraine’s civil society, and promoting Ukrainian culture worldwide.

Since the full-scale invasion, Razom has grown from an all-volunteer organization of dedicated activists to a community of 222,000+ supporters around the world. Together, we’ve delivered vital medical supplies, communication gear, evacuation transport, and more to Ukrainian heroes.

Our work spans five key areas:

Heroes: Delivering life-saving aid to first responders and frontline medics.

Health: Strengthening Ukraine’s healthcare system to serve people now and after victory.

Relief: Investing in grassroots NGOs that supply aid to vulnerable communities.

Advocacy: Advancing legislation and policy for Ukraine’s victory.

Connect: Promoting the vibrancy of Ukrainian voices through education, volunteering, and the arts.

We are honored to be recognized for our impact during such a critical time and remain committed to supporting Ukraine. Every donation brings us closer to a stronger, democratic Ukraine.

Join us today and support our mission!

Razom Delivers 11 Mobile Medical Units to Save Lives on the Front Lines

Published: September 18, 2024

Razom for Ukraine has provided 11 mobile medical stabilization units to Ukrainian first responders. These units provide immediate medical care right on the front lines, saving up to 100 lives per month. The project, called “Stabnet,” was made possible in collaboration with French partners.

This particular project addresses the critical need for rapid, on-the-ground medical care in hot zones. With these units, military medics can stabilize the injured and save lives in active war areas. Our partnership with French partner organizations provided not only co-funding but also key expertise in building mobile medical systems.

Taras Hatalyak, Razom Heroes Program Director, emphasizes:
“In these challenging times, mobile medical units are a lifeline for soldiers on the front lines. Each unit represents a chance for survival for those who are injured while defending our future. But we need more of these units. Your support is vital — every donation can help save a life.”

These mobile units are compact but powerful. Equipped with everything from infusion systems to respiratory equipment and medications, they can be deployed in minutes, allowing medics to provide critical care when every second counts.

“Each unit saves up to 100 lives per month in combat conditions, proving how essential they are. Unlike larger hospitals that can’t operate near the front lines, these mobile units can be positioned right where the need is most urgent,” said Gennadiy Zabolotnyi, who heads Razom’s mobile medical project.

Working with international partners, including France, not only provides technical and financial support but also demonstrates global solidarity with Ukraine. This coalitionis a powerful example of how collective efforts can save lives.

Razom has already delivered 11 mobile units to the frontlines, but the need is still critical. At least 50 more are required to meet the ongoing demands. With the war continuing, every additional unit represents another opportunity to save lives and help Ukraine persevere.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology and charitable contributions, Ukrainian soldiers have a better chance at survival. But these units are more than just medical stations — they are a symbol of the strength and commitment of everyone working toward Ukraine’s victory.

Together, we can make a difference and help Ukraine emerge stronger.

Razom Relief: From Summer to School

Published: September 18, 2024

As the school year begins and autumn approaches, we reflect on the impact of Razom Relief’s initiatives that have provided needed support, healthcare, and educational opportunities to children and communities across Ukraine. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, many have had the chance to rest, rejuvenate, and engage in activities that foster growth and resilience. We’re excited to share inspiring stories from those who have benefited from Razom’s grants and how these initiatives have helped prepare them for the new season and school year.

Center for Psychological and Humanitarian Support in the Chernivtsi Region

The Center for Psychological and Humanitarian Support (CPHS) for internally displaced people in Vyzhnytsia, Chernivtsi region, has been running several successful projects, including a social enterprise:a bakery. Razom is proud to partner with CPHS on a second joint project that has once again exceeded all expectations.

With a grant from Razom, the center sponsored a summer camp where children immersed themselves in adventures and learning, acquiring essential skills like orienteering, fire-starting, pitching tents, and cooking over open flames. The camp taught them teamwork, mutual support, and responsibility. The unforgettable experiences—new friendships, night hikes with flashlights, and laughter around campfires—served as a test of resilience and a perfect preparation for the new school year.

Creating Opportunities in Poltava

The NGO Sustainable Development Platform Perspective in the Poltava region, with Razom’s support, established a community center that has become a hub for children and youth. This space aims to empower young people by providing new knowledge, building connections, and fostering youth activism. Guided by mentors, the youth developed operational regulations and a strategic plan for the center’s growth in 2024-2025.

In just two months, the project reached over 2,500 people and hosted more than 60 events, including training sessions, workshops, physical activities, and community-building excursions, offering much-needed emotional relief and skill development.

Ukraine South Liberty: A Lifeline in Chornomorsk

In the southern regions, the Ukraine South Liberty organization in Chornomorsk, Odesa region, worked tirelessly to support children’s health and well-being. With a grant from Razom, they launched two critical projects: an IDP (Internally Displaced People) center and a children’s center. The IDP center offers services like career counseling, psychological support, IT training, and cultural events, while the children’s center focuses on holistic development through activities promoting inclusivity, gender equality, and psychological well-being.

Building Ukraine Together Youth Camp in the North

Supported by a Razom grant, Building Ukraine Together (BUR) gathered young participants from across Ukraine to aid in infrastructure restoration, create spaces for learning and connection, and support internally displaced persons. At the BUR camp in Ladanska, Chernihiv region, young people worked to build a youth center, helping the community recover from occupation and fostering a sense of hope and renewal.

As we embrace the fall season, these stories of readiness for the new school year and the positive impact of Razom’s grants remind us of the power of community and the difference we can make together. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our donors—your continued support sustains these efforts, bringing hope and renewal to countless lives.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from Razom Relief!

Razom Volunteers Targeted in Airstrikes While Delivering Aid in Sumy Region

Published: September 13, 2024

On the morning of September 13, Razom’s volunteers came under heavy airstrikes while delivering humanitarian aid to Yampil Hospital in the Sumy region. As they were unloading supplies, two air-dropped bombs (KABs) exploded just 100 meters from the hospital. Thankfully, the volunteers and hospital staff escaped serious injury. However, the hospital’s windows were shattered, and vehicles, along with the much-needed aid, were damaged by shrapnel.

Immediately after the attack, the hospital began receiving injured civilians, mainly women, children, and the elderly. Under extremely difficult conditions, the medical staff provided urgent care, even relocating to the hospital’s basement for safety.

Yampil, located just 7 miles from the Russian border, has been enduring nearly daily airstrikes, according to local residents.

In response to the worsening situation in Sumy and nearby regions, Razom for Ukraine launched an emergency program to supply hospitals in Sumy with essential medications, orthopedic equipment, and other critical materials. With today’s delivery to Yampil and previous deliveries to Sumy, Khotin, Shostka, and Hlukhiv, Razom has now provided nearly 10 tons of humanitarian aid, valued at $200,000.

Razom needs your help!

Innocent Ukrainians and volunteers are being targeted while delivering humanitarian aid. Let’s also remember the recent Red Cross tragedy on September 12, where three workers lost their lives in a similar attack.

Support Razom for Ukraine to replace the damaged vehicle and continue delivering life-saving aid across Ukraine. Every contribution saves lives!

Razom for Ukraine and The Howard G. Buffett Foundation: Delivering Lifesaving Medical Kits to Ukrainian Rescue Teams (DSNS)

Published: September 11, 2024

With each missile strike in Ukraine, time is critical. The State Emergency Service (SES) of Ukraine is usually the first to arrive on the scene, even before ambulances. These rescue workers push through the wreckage, to deal with the chaos and devastation, to provide critical aid. Their quick actions mean the difference between life and death for those injured in these horrific attacks.

In a recent tragedy in Poltava, a missile strike leveled building and claimed 58 lives. Over 300 people were injured, many critically. DSNS (SES) responders were the first on-site, acting with precision and urgency — applying tourniquets, stabilizing the wounded, and saving countless lives.

Yet, their courage alone isn’t enough. Without the proper medical supplies, even the most heroic efforts can fall short of intent. This is where international support becomes a lifeline.

Thanks to the partnership between The Howard G. Buffett Foundation and Razom for Ukraine, 4,300 lifesaving medical kits are being delivered to Ukrainian rescue teams. These kits aren’t just supplies, they are essential tools that enable SES responders to perform life-saving interventions in the most dangerous conditions.

Distributed to SES units across the country, these medical kits will be on the frontlines where they are needed most — Russian missile strikes can happen anywhere, at any time. Each kit represents hope and a second chance for those caught in the crossfire of war.

These first responders risk everything, day in and day out, to protect others. The support from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation ensures they have the tools to continue their vital work. It’s a partnership that saves lives.

And this is just one element in a larger effort. For Ukraine’s first responders, who risk their lives in the aftermath of every attack to continue their life-saving work, our ongoing support is crucial.

Ukraine is not alone in this battle. The global response has shown that together, we are stronger. International grants, humanitarian aid, and critical medical donations like these are making a real difference. Thanks to initiatives like those from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation, the path to victory becomes clearer every day.

Together, we are stronger!

Impact of “20 Days in Mariupol” Across U.S. Campuses

Published: September 6, 2024

In the lead-up to its historic Oscar win in 2024, 20 Days in Mariupol garnered remarkable support from Razom Connect, specifically through its Razom Cinema and Ukraine on Campus projects. Partnering with PBS Distribution, we successfully distributed 50 DVDs of this poignant film to universities across the United States. This initiative not only broadened the film’s reach but also ensured its lasting impact through donations to campus libraries.

The screenings of 20 Days in Mariupol extended beyond the university campuses where they were held, igniting a wave of empathy and activism. This powerful documentary, directed by Pulitzer Prize-winning Ukrainian journalist Mstyslav Chernov, became a tool for profound reflection on the human experience during crises. Through these screenings, art demonstrated its transformative power to foster understanding, compassion, and hope amid adversity.

We also provided a screening toolkit to aid participants in planning and promoting their events. This toolkit included pre-made graphics and suggested captions for social media to amplify the impact of the film.

Event Highlights:

Harvard University: Featured Mariupol survivor Alina Beskrovna, who brought artifacts from the war, offering students a tangible connection to the devastation.
Montclair State University: Hosted a discussion with Michael Levdanski and Marianna Tretiak, providing insights from those actively aiding Ukraine.
University of Wisconsin: Led by student Anna Kovalchuk, focused on personal connections to the war and its impact on the university community.
University of Minnesota: Included survivors and Consul General Beth Richardson. Artem, a 17-year-old Mariupol survivor featured in the film, spoke to a large audience about his experiences.
City College of New York: Partnered with The Documentary Forum for a high-attendance screening, featuring influential cultural activist Daria Kolomiec.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed deep emotional reactions and gained a more meaningful understanding of the war. The film effectively challenged false narratives and provided a sobering view of life during war, inspiring empathy and connection across all 50 campuses.

Impact Report from DVD distribution to University campuses

Download

Empowering Ukraine’s Heroes with Emergency Response Medical Training

Published: September 5, 2024

In times of crisis, having the right skills can mean the difference between life and death. At Razom for Ukraine, we believe that everyone should be prepared to act in emergencies, which is why we’ve provided our emergency response medical training program to the Prosecutor General’s Office of Ukraine.

These professionals frequently operate in high-risk areas — whether documenting war crimes, working at missile strike sites, or combatting criminal activities in hot zones. Their work is essential, but it also places them in dangerous situations where immediate action is often required.

Training for Real-World Scenarios

Our training began with a focus on the specific challenges these staff members face. Over three days, they received both theoretical and hands-on instruction, learning essential emergency procedures. The final day involved realistic simulations, during which participants practiced their new skills under stress-inducing conditions, closely mirroring the scenarios they might encounter in the field.

While this three-day course provided a solid foundation, it’s just the beginning. Many participants expressed a desire for further training, recognizing the importance of ongoing education in lifesaving skills. We plan to expand this program to reach even more staff members, particularly those working in frontline areas.

Making a Difference, Together

At Razom for Ukraine, we are proud to support those who play a critical role in the fight for justice and freedom. By equipping Ukrainians with these priceless skills, we aim to make their work safer and empower them to continue serving their country with confidence.

We wish that there wasn’t a need for this kind of preparation but in the event that it must be utilized, we are proud to have contributed to the safety and well-being of these brave individuals. Together, we are making a difference.

Thank you for supporting Razom!

RAZOM CINEMA GRANT REPORT: OKSANA KARPOVYCH’S “INTERCEPTED” – NEW DIRECTORS NEW FILMS 2024

Published: August 29, 2024

Having traveled around the world, collecting international awards along the way, Razom Cinema grantee “Intercepted” has come home for its theatrical release this August. A hearty congratulations to the Oksana and the whole film team with this accomplishment! With this in mind, let’s take it back to the beginning.

For the past 53 years, the Film at Lincoln Center and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) have brought together a program of films and filmmakers who speak to the present and anticipate the future of cinema – those who push the envelope in unexpected, striking ways. This is done under the auspices of the New Directors New Films (N/D) festival. In recent years, Ukrainian films started to populate the N/D line up and it’s no surprise to see groundbreaking films like “Stop Zemlia”, “Pamfir”, and now “Intercepted” take their well deserved spots as alumni of the festival.

For the North American premiere, Razom Cinema supported the “Intercepted” film team to bring director Oksana Karpovych, producer Olha Beshkmelnytsina, and composer Olesia Onykiienko to the premiere screening. For a film that exposes so much and reflects on the Russian imperial behavior with its complete disregard for civilian lives, it’s important to have the filmmakers be there to guide the audiences through thoughts and questions.

Since February 2022, the Security Service of Ukraine has intercepted and recorded thousands of phone calls made between Russian soldiers on the front line in Ukraine, to their family and relatives. Those phone calls were made public to expose the true mentality of those on Ukrainian land, committing war crimes. After reviewing hours of these calls, Oksana and her team came up with what now is an award-winning documentary “Intercepted” – a photojournalistic and audibly heavy report of what has happened in Ukraine.

If you weren’t able to catch the screening, make sure to listen in to the discussion with Oksana Karpovych at New Directors New Films.

Following the successful screening in New York, the “Intercepted” team was able to engage with various media and received several positive reviews from the likes of IndieWire, Variety, Filmmaker Magazine, and others. We look forward to seeing just how far the film will go in the coming fall, so keep an eye out for it!

Razom Cinema aims to promote and celebrate the vibrancy of Ukrainian voices and assure a strong representation of Ukraine on various important stages. From grants, partnerships, and programming, we unlock possibilities such as the ones listed above – bring Ukrainian creators to important spaces to meet, partner, and do with international talent.

Thank you to our donors who made this possible, and everyone who supports Razom.

RAZOM CINEMA CELEBRATES THE THEATRICAL RELEASE OF “RULE OF TWO WALLS”

Published: August 21, 2024

Working with Razom Cinema’s Polina Buchak has been one of the most gratifying parts of the journey of making this film. The support and advocacy for our project has been nothing short of inspiring. The dream of every filmmaker is to reach as wide an audience as possible, and Razom has helped us immeasurably to connect with both Ukrainian and American audiences globally. Our film quite simply would not have been as successful had it not been for our partnership with Polina and the whole heroic team at Razom. Дуже дякую, Слава Україні!

– Director David Gutnik

Together with DCTV Firehouse, Razom Cinema celebrated the theatrical release of an award-winning documentary “Rule of Two Walls” directed by David Gutnik. Previously, Razom Cinema awarded the film team a grant to support their World Premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival 2023. With this support, in part, the team was able to bring several cast (artists featured in the documentary) and crew members to assure a strong Ukrainian representation at the festival (and industry events), as well as allow the U.S. audience to hear first hand stories from the creators.

Premiere screening at the Tribeca Film Festival 2023. From left to right: Volodymyr Ivanov (DP), David Gutnik (director), Olha Beskhmelnitsyna (producer), Bob Basset (featured artist), Mikhail Zakutskyi (sound recordist), Lyana Mytsko (featured artist), Stepan Burban (featured artist), Bohdana Davydiuk (featured artist), Andrew Orkin (music composer).

Many of our Razom friends and those who have been following Ukrainian cinema joined us at the opening night event on August 16, 2024. It was a moving night with lots of insightful conversations about the power that art holds when it comes to resistance, resilience, and reclaiming the Ukrainian identity that for years has been suppressed and hidden. This documentary, with executive producer Liev Schreiber, explores the war in Ukraine through the lens of artists living and creating amid utter destruction. Blurring the lines between what is happening in front of the cameras and behind, the film probes what it means to make cinema in a time of war.

If you happen to have missed the opening night discussion, you still have a chance to catch the closing night screening on August 22nd at 7:00 PM EDT at the DCTV Firehouse. In case you are tuning in outside of NYC, here’s a short recap of the discussion!

Thank you to our donors who made this possible, and everyone who supports Razom.