What can you tell us about the support for volunteer initiatives in your community, specifically about the educational and cultural center in Vysokyi? How does this initiative impact the community?
Volunteer initiatives are always supported by the community leadership; they make a tremendous contribution to social life. In particular, since the start of the war, we have closely cooperated with the public organization “Association of Youth Leaders of Ukraine,” the Family Center “You Too,” the initiative group “Skovoroda Step,” and others.
Regarding the educational and cultural center in the village of Vysokyi, it’s important to clarify that we have two such centers: in the villages of Pokotylivka and Vysokyi. Thanks to collaboration with international organizations and the grants we’ve received, these centers have become vital spaces for implementing a range of programs for youth, children, and families. They give everyone the chance to feel part of the community, be helpful, and learn new things. These projects help the community grow, attract new activists, and support our youth.
On August 4, 2023, a Youth Council was created under the Vysochansk Village Council. It fosters leadership and initiative among the youth—a young generation that will take over and continue building our country.
How do you interact with the public organization “Association of Youth Leaders of Ukraine”? How do you support their projects and initiatives?
For over two years, we have had a strong partnership with the Association of Youth Leaders of Ukraine, led by Mykola Blahovestov and his deputy Nataliya Pakhina. They have become reliable partners in implementing youth projects. The organization helps us engage youth in community initiatives, develop educational programs, and actively support cultural and sports projects. The local government facilitates their work, providing premises, assisting with resources, and supporting initiatives at the community level. Our cooperation focuses on creating opportunities for youth to realize their potential and develop leadership skills, helping young people stay in the community and work for its benefit.
What activities and events are currently being held at the educational and cultural center in Vysokyi? Are there regular events or programs that have become popular with local residents?
As I mentioned, we have two such centers. With safety guidelines in place, regular activities have already gained popularity among our residents, such as various workshops, media literacy courses, volleyball and chess tournaments, workshops, and guest speaker events.
In addition, the Association of Youth Leaders of Ukraine launched the “Return” Veteran Hub in Vysokyi to support veterans and their families, as well as the families of those who are missing, captured, or deceased. In collaboration with the village council’s social services, this hub addresses urgent issues for this category. This was made possible by a grant from the Ukrainian Veterans Fund and support from the public organization “Initiative Center for Civic Action” (Unity) and the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine. The center currently employs two administrators and partner organizations that provide free psychological and legal assistance to servicemen and their families. Besides adult activities, sessions are held for children whose parents serve or hold combatant status. Information on business opportunities and entrepreneurship is also shared with service members.
As far as I know, the Vysochansk Hub “Return” plans to set up a room for psychological support and emotional relief, and expand the range of services available to servicemen.
How does the local government support the center in Vysokyi? Can you provide examples, such as setting up a fence? What other issues does the government help to address?
The local government has always supported and continues to support this educational and cultural center because we understand its importance to our community. In addition to installing a fence, we actively assisted with repairs, landscaping, and are currently working on water supply and sewage projects. We promptly respond to the center’s needs to ensure its steady development and make it even more comfortable for residents.
We notice that you actively participate in youth events and often share this information on your Facebook page. Your love for soccer is also evident. Why are these activities important to you?
Youth events and promoting sports are personally very important to me. I am convinced that youth development and the popularization of sports contribute to a healthy lifestyle and shape positive values.
When young people see an example and feel supported, they’re inspired to strive for growth. So, for me, participating in these events is a way to show the youth of our community that the government is always ready to support their initiatives.
As for sports, I always remember that it’s not just about physical activity but also instilling discipline, resilience, and unity. These qualities form the foundation of community growth, where everyone can feel their importance. During this challenging time for our country, our leadership prioritizes creating conditions for children’s development, as they are our future.
Soccer, personally, is an essential part of my life. Why? For several years, I’ve been teaching at the Vysochansk Youth Sports School. Currently, over 100 children are involved in the soccer department in Babayi, Vysokyi, and Pokotylivka. In my opinion, this sport has a unique ability to bring people together. For example, we recently hosted the “Football Family” tournament in Babayi, uniting participants of various ages and their families. Although the players ranged in age (starting from 6), the matches had an adult level of competitiveness, with each team showing determination, a drive to win, and resilience.
What future plans do you have for yourself and the center? What will you focus on, and how do you see the prospects for these areas in general?
In the future, we plan to focus even more on educational programs aimed at developing youth leadership and social responsibility. In the long term, we aim to create even more opportunities for youth recreation and development, so that our young citizens feel their home is a place where they are always welcome, supported, and where they can grow.
We also plan to bring in additional specialists and experts to conduct workshops, training sessions, and consultations. We believe that the center will become a genuine growth point for the community, where everyone will find an opportunity for self-realization.