Mentoring support

We are grateful to the Social Change Platform for the opportunity to gain knowledge, experience and for the qualitative improvements of us and our work! We have learnt to analyse our activity, taking into account internal and external factors. We have reorganised the team structure, changed the approach to responsibilities, and implemented short- and long-term development strategy planning. This has significantly helped us improve our activity. In total, the organisation of the entire process is well planned and strictly implemented. Each module, like a puzzle, completed the picture and formed a complete pattern, roadmap and understanding of our mission.

Due to the gained knowledge and funds to implement the project “Solutions Workshop for Community Organisations and Internally Displaced Persons” I scaled up my activity and expanded my influence in Dnipro Community joining the IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) Council of Dnipro. Before the training, our main activity was focused on providing assistance to IDPs and facilitating their integration into the Local Community. After receiving the grant, we purchased the necessary furniture and were able to equip the IDPs Integration and Leisure Centre, making it more comfortable and convenient for our beneficiaries and staff. On its basis, we have created an effective platform for public meetings, which helps organisations to establish cooperation with each other and exchange ideas.

Training at the Social Change Platform and receiving a grant helped us organise activities aimed at restoring the mental health of children and adults, including IDPs. Our team managed to improve the knowledge in preparing presentations, budgeting, focusing on important aspects, and writing grants in general. The training gave us the opportunity to improve our skills and implement our project. Due to the grant, we purchased beautiful and comfortable equipment for our studio, conducted trainings on art therapy and equine-assisted therapy. We organised educational games and quests for participants and other psycho-relaxation activities. Taking part in such educational programmes is a great experience that gives the opportunity not only to get theoretical material but also to put your knowledge into practice.

Due to the investments of the Social Change Platform, me and my team were able to supplement the work of the “Kolosok” Bakery with social entrepreneurship, that ensures the financial stability of the activities of the Charitable Foundation «Caritas of the Parish of St Andrew the First-Called of Kalush». In addition, we have implemented a social project called the "Workshop for Social Adaptation of Young People with Disabilities", which enables young people with disabilities to socialise by attending workshops, excursions and events, which are organised with the help of their parents. Besides, a psychologist and a social worker work with young people with disabilities on a regular basis. Thanks to the implementation of social entrepreneurship and the social project, the community has changed its vision of the role of the church and charitable activities. We encourage local residents to join our social initiatives giving an example.