Volunteering is essential for creating a more compassionate, resilient, and inclusive society. Alona Nefedova, co-founder of the charity foundation Guards of the Dream, is about to highlight the stories behind the organization’s work, providing insight into the impact of their assistance on people’s lives, especially kids.
Support Guards of the Dream
INTERNATIONAL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION «GUARDS OF THE DREAM»
БЛАГОДІЙНА ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ «МІЖНАРОДНИЙ БЛАГОДІЙНИЙ ФОНД «ВАРТОВІ МРІЇ»
Код: 45361472
IBAN: UA053052990000026004030131379, АТ КБ «ПриватБанк», МФО 305299
Address: Україна, 07400, Київська обл., м. Бровари, вул. Шолом-Алейхема, 93, оф. 2
Phone: +380686708697
Email: 31051984@ukr.net
Alona, can you share with us the journey that led you to co-found Guards of the Dream? What inspired you to start this initiative?
Since 2006, I’ve been involved in volunteer work, although it wasn’t labeled as such then. Initially, my efforts were focused on assisting elderly people in my neighborhood with grocery shopping and household chores. In 2010, after relocating to Brovary in the Kyiv region, I founded a youth group with a dual mission: to support the elderly and to initiate the Clean City program.
Every Saturday, our group would gather to clean up the city streets, removing litter and debris. Additionally, we noticed the elderly struggling to carry their groceries home from local markets, so we offered our assistance, which was met with gratitude and joy. From 2014 onwards, the invasion of eastern Ukraine started. Our focus shifted to providing aid to civilians fleeing from the war-torn regions of Luhansk and Donetsk.
Over the years, our volunteer group operated as a union of volunteers. Still, with the onset of a full-scale invasion in 2022, we recognized the need to expand our efforts. I joined forces with the “Guardians of Dreams” volunteer union, co-founded by my godfather Mykolaichuk Mykolaiv and Tata Sirik, who were already deeply involved in supporting military personnel. Together, we developed a comprehensive plan to assist civilians and children affected by the war. After two months, we successfully registered our organization as the International Charity Foundation Guards of the Dream.
Today, our organization boasts a team of 107 dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to support Ukrainians both on the front lines and in the civilian population.
Can you introduce us to the team behind Guards of the Dream? What makes your team unique, and what strengths does each member bring to the table in fulfilling the organization’s mission? Could you tell me a couple of words about the mission itself?
The Titans of the “Become a Hero—Close Request” project aim to fulfill the needs of our military personnel. Mykolaichuk Mykola, Siryk Tetyana, Ruslana Kurkina, Tetyana Puzanova, Lyudmila Nishenko, and numerous other volunteers are crucial to the project. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to address the requests and requirements of our defenders, ensuring they receive the support they need.
On the civilian and children’s support front, we have a remarkable team from our foundation, including Tetyana Borovik, Yuriy Shtotkin, Sergii Tretiak, Marina Maksimenko, Vadym Krachmar, and 30 other volunteers, including myself. Together, they are actively involved in various projects such as “ART Therapy,” “Our Children Are the Future,” “Wings of Hope,” and “Volunteer Rear.” Our sense of unity and support sets our team apart, akin to that of a close-knit family. We stand together, always ready to lend a helping hand to one another.
The strategic goal of Guards of the Dream is to provide long-term assistance and support to those affected by hostilities. To achieve this, our foundation focuses on improving lives, offering psychological rehabilitation, and supporting children who have lost their parents due to the war. We are committed to creating conditions that enhance well-being and restore the mental health of our citizens. Our dedication remains unwavering – we are here to take care of Ukrainians.
Providing education to children in conflict zones is a crucial yet challenging endeavor. How do you and your team navigate these challenges to ensure that every child has access to learning opportunities despite their adversities?
Today, children in the frontline zones of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, and Kherson regions primarily engage in online learning whenever possible due to the frequent lack of internet access. Many of these children face significant challenges and fears as they navigate through these difficult times.
When our Foundation team visits schools in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, they encounter the same recurring issue: the inability to conduct offline activities with the children. In collaboration with local authorities, we organize classes where children can engage in activities such as talking, drawing, and needlework. These sessions provide them with a much-needed distraction from the harsh realities of war, offering them moments of respite and camaraderie.
Support Guards of the Dream
INTERNATIONAL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION «GUARDS OF THE DREAM»
БЛАГОДІЙНА ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ «МІЖНАРОДНИЙ БЛАГОДІЙНИЙ ФОНД «ВАРТОВІ МРІЇ»
Код: 45361472
IBAN: UA053052990000026004030131379, АТ КБ «ПриватБанк», МФО 305299
Address: Україна, 07400, Київська обл., м. Бровари, вул. Шолом-Алейхема, 93, оф. 2
Phone: +380686708697
Email: 31051984@ukr.net
Could you tell us about a particularly touching or inspiring moment you’ve experienced working with children in conflict zones? Is there a specific story that stays with you and motivates you to continue your mission?
The joy reflected in children’s eyes when we engage with them is truly inspiring. There are countless heartwarming stories from our work with children, and it’s difficult to single out just one because they all hold a special place in our hearts. Among them are aspiring artists, athletes, singers, and performers – all of whom feel like family to us.
Allow me to share a memorable experience from our visit to the Lyman community. It was an unforgettable trip from December 25 to December 27, 2023. We visited four schools, three of which were located in the Donetsk region, where eager children warmly welcomed us. As we arrived, there was a sense of anticipation and apprehension, wondering how we would connect with each child individually.
To our delight, each group had prepared poems, songs, and artwork to share with us. The room was filled with children ranging from 6 to 15 years old, each brimming with enthusiasm. On the journey back home, I couldn’t help but reflect on how deeply fulfilling it is to share love and joy with these children. Moments like these fuel my passion and serve as a constant reminder of why we do what we do. Russia’s aggression in Ukraine has devastated educational institutions, forcing Ukrainian children to adapt to remote learning amid shelters and constant power and communication challenges. Despite these hardships, our children’s resilience and creativity persist.
Let me share the story of Oleksiy, a talented young artist from Lyman Lyceum No. 4 in the Donetsk region. Despite the turmoil, Oleksiy continues to create beautiful artwork, inspiring his peers with his colorful drawings. His journey began when he was gifted colored pencils, sparking his passion for painting everything around him. Even amid the war, Oleksiy’s art serves as a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of creativity in overcoming adversity. With the support of his mother, Yulia, and a creative circle organized at the lyceum, Oleksiy found solace in his art once again. This story underscores the importance of nurturing our children’s talents and providing them with love and attention, especially in times of crisis. When allowed to express themselves, incredible talents emerge, reminding us of the resilience and potential within each of us.
Beyond traditional education, what other forms of support do you provide to the people you work with? How do these additional initiatives contribute to their holistic development?
As I mentioned earlier, our foundation is actively implementing several projects, including “ART Therapy,” “Our Children Are the Future,” “Wings of Hope,” and “Volunteer Rear.” While these projects are already making a difference, we have many more plans in the pipeline. Let me provide a brief overview of our existing projects:
ART Therapy focuses on utilizing art as a form of therapy. This approach allows individuals, both children and adults, to address internal conflicts, anxiety, and fears through creative expression. Art Therapy offers a holistic and eco-friendly healing method, where participants can engage in activities such as dancing, storytelling, sculpting, or working with materials like plasticine or sand. Unlike traditional therapy, where a psychologist may prompt discussions, in Art Therapy, individuals are empowered to choose their creative tools for self-expression. This method is particularly effective with children, as it allows them to communicate non-verbally and express themselves freely, often on a symbolic level. Our approach involves implementing certain rituals to initiate and conclude each session. It creates a safe and supportive environment for participants to explore their emotions and find internal resources for coping and healing.
“Our Children Are the Future” emphasizes the importance of safeguarding our children, who represent the future of Ukraine. As a nation, our collective responsibility is to protect them from any potential dangers and ensure their well-being and prosperity. These projects are just a glimpse of our ongoing efforts to support and uplift our communities, with many more initiatives in the pipeline as we continue to strive toward a brighter future for all. As adults, it is our responsibility to shape the development and future of our children. Our primary goal is to raise them to be intelligent, compassionate, and confident individuals with generous and harmonious souls.
The “Our Children Are the Future” project is dedicated to creating a world where every child has access to innovative, high-quality, and affordable services for development. Our vision is to ensure equal opportunities, social inclusion, and empowerment for all children, regardless of their background or circumstances. We strive to provide a clean and nurturing environment where every child can lead a dignified life, receive protection, pursue their development, and actively participate in society.
“Wings of Hope” focuses on providing both material and non-material assistance to families in the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, and Kherson regions. This support extends to families with children, especially those from low-income backgrounds or with disabilities. Through this project, we aim to alleviate the burdens faced by these families and offer them hope for a brighter future.
Support Guards of the Dream
INTERNATIONAL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION «GUARDS OF THE DREAM»
БЛАГОДІЙНА ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ «МІЖНАРОДНИЙ БЛАГОДІЙНИЙ ФОНД «ВАРТОВІ МРІЇ»
Код: 45361472
IBAN: UA053052990000026004030131379, АТ КБ «ПриватБанк», МФО 305299
Address: Україна, 07400, Київська обл., м. Бровари, вул. Шолом-Алейхема, 93, оф. 2
Phone: +380686708697
Email: 31051984@ukr.net
Personal narratives often resonate deeply with readers. Could you tell us a touching or inspiring story of someone whose life has been transformed by the assistance they received from your organization?
I want to share a personal story about my journey and what led me to focus on helping children and civilians. In February, I woke up to the sound of explosions, initially confused about what was happening. It took until 10 am for my family to realize we needed to leave. Living on the 10th floor with no safe area, we quickly gathered our family and belongings into two cars, including my friend Oksana and her two-year-old son Sasha, who had lost his father just a few months prior. With everyone packed tightly, we set off for my mother’s house in Chernihiv, hoping for safety. Little did we know, we were driving into the heart of chaos.
As we journeyed, fear gripped us as military equipment littered the roads. I felt the weight of responsibility for the nine lives in my hands, devising a plan with the other car to ensure our safety. It was a grueling eight-hour drive, navigating through a war zone with uncertainty looming overhead. I didn’t understand how to keep everyone unharmed because my brain didn’t understand that Russia attacked us. It was the long road to my mother’s house.
We lived in primitive conditions for a month, grappling with the challenge of securing essentials like milk and diapers for Sasha. Throughout this tumultuous period, we received countless calls from friends. We tried our best to aid our neighbors in any way we could, organizing assistance for those near Irpin. Fear gripped us as our village transformed into a battlefield, with the Armed Forces defending on one side and invaders on the other.
Yet, amidst the chaos, there were moments of profound clarity. Holding Sasha close as we hurried to the basement during rocket attacks, I couldn’t help but marvel at his innocent slumber and feel grateful for our togetherness. We refused to surrender despite being trapped in this dire situation for almost three months.
We patrolled the roads, supported our neighbors, and found solace in rallying together during each rocket launch. You wake up in a house with sealed windows and do not understand whether it is night or day. Only one window in my mother’s room was unsealed. My mother screamed one night, “A rocket is flying at us,” it was a moment of numbness, and at that time, realizing that we were under God’s protection. The rocket my mother saw in the window flew straight at us and changed its trajectory 500 meters away. In a second, your entire life flashes before your eyes. This was precisely that moment for me.
As the threat of danger loomed closer, we faced a critical decision: to flee our village or remain. In the dead of night, I ventured outside to clear my thoughts and assess our options. After careful consideration, I realized that our village lay directly in the path of the advancing threat, with our escape route posing significant risks. The weight of this decision bore heavily on my family and me as we grappled with the uncertainty of our future.
Eventually, the situation began to improve, and the roads were liberated from Russian soldiers. It was then time for us to return to Brovary and Kyiv, where we faced the daunting task of rebuilding our lives and finding employment. My husband and I joined a group of volunteers assisting the military. At the same time, Oksana and Sasha sought refuge abroad with my niece. However, even amidst our return to relative normalcy, I found myself grappling with a new adversary: depression. Nights were sleepless, and anxiety pervaded our every moment.
It was during one such episode that I stumbled upon a painting given to me as a gift. Though I lacked artistic talent, I began to paint, finding solace and peace in the process. This newfound clarity led me to realize that I wanted to help others, particularly children, navigate their struggles. Through initiatives like “A Little Bit of Happiness,” a theatrical performance aimed at supporting those in need, and the introduction of art therapy supplemented with children’s fairy tales, we embarked on a journey to offer solace and healing to those who needed it most. Thus, the concept of ART Therapy at Guards of the Dream was born, paving the way for a brighter, more hopeful future for all.
We interview Alona Nefedova, a volunteer of the charity organization Guards of the Dream
In your experience, can you share a memorable moment when someone’s unwavering determination inspired your team? How did witnessing their resilience impact the way your team approached its mission?
Our team is truly remarkable, with each volunteer embodying the resilience of titanium and the steadfastness of flint. Individuals like Tata, Roma, Yura, Vova, and Kolya exemplify fearlessness as they courageously navigate through war zones, Ruslana, Tetyana, Lyudmila, Olya, Alyona, Skandinav, and Tanyusha, ensuring that essential supplies reach those in need. They tirelessly work to fulfill project requirements and address requests, displaying unwavering dedication and determination.
I want to spotlight our writer, Maksimenko Marynka, whose enchanting fairy tales bring joy and inspiration to children. Through their storytelling, they weave stories of hope and resilience, sparking imagination and uplifting spirits. These people serve as our motivators, inspiring us and guarding against burnout as we navigate the challenges of our work. Together, we form a close-knit family united in our mission to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Here is a remarkable example of a source of inspiration.
Our foundation met Elizaveta on December 25, 2023, in the liberated town of Lyman in the Donetsk region, just 13 kilometers from the front line. She introduced us to the Baghira women’s football team and their coach, Oleksandr Reznikov. Despite Ukraine’s challenging weather and harsh circumstances, the Baghira team trains outdoors on an artificial turf field. They lack a proper indoor facility due to damaged schools with gyms from shelling, and often practice without electricity or heating. Coach Oleksandr Reznikov schedules training sessions four times a week. During bad weather, he assigns the team to watch online matches featuring Ukrainian teams. While Guards of the Dream fund supports the development of the Baghira team, we aspire to help them reach the top league.
Building and sustaining a nonprofit organization can be challenging, especially in demanding contexts. What keeps you and your team motivated and resilient amidst your obstacles?
I want to emphasize once again that the volunteers of our foundation are more than just a team; we’re a close-knit family. Each of us understands the vital role we play in Ukraine’s victory. As long as our volunteer hearts beat with the spirit of help and support, as long as our people continue to fight, and as long as Ukraine stands resilient, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to freedom and independence. Together, we stand united, unwavering in our dedication to the cause.
Collaboration is often crucial to maximizing impact. Can you share any partnerships or collaborations that have been particularly impactful for Guards of the Dream in achieving its goals?
Today, the volunteer movement in Ukraine is admired in many countries worldwide, with many calling it a unique phenomenon. The rise of volunteering in our country coincided with the Revolution of Dignity and the onset of the conflict in Donbas. This movement emerged during an incredibly challenging period, uniting society and establishing effective structures of public organizations and groups of people willing to tackle the most urgent and pressing issues facing the state.
Cooperation in our volunteer work is really one of the critical moments of the existence of help. Many charity organizations help us: “CO Yuriy Shtokkin,” “Order of Freedom,” “Delicious for the Armed Forces,” and many other foundations. The business sector is an inexhaustible help for us.
The most significant and impactful contribution comes from ordinary people who step up to offer their time, skills, and assistance. They tirelessly organize field kitchens, set tents, and disseminate vital information. Moreover, many volunteers have evolved into professionals, including doctors, lawyers, and psychologists, who dedicate their expertise to helping others professionally. Witnessing the collective efforts of individuals from all walks of life strengthens and inspires us to continue doing good in our communities.
Support Guards of the Dream
INTERNATIONAL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION «GUARDS OF THE DREAM»
БЛАГОДІЙНА ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ «МІЖНАРОДНИЙ БЛАГОДІЙНИЙ ФОНД «ВАРТОВІ МРІЇ»
Код: 45361472
IBAN: UA053052990000026004030131379, АТ КБ «ПриватБанк», МФО 305299
Address: Україна, 07400, Київська обл., м. Бровари, вул. Шолом-Алейхема, 93, оф. 2
Phone: +380686708697
Email: 31051984@ukr.net
What message would you like to convey to readers who may be moved by your organization’s work and want to support your cause? How can they get involved and make a difference in the lives of these children?
We aspire for every child to have access to the best opportunities, including playing football, singing, drawing, and learning English. However, at times, we face limitations in terms of financial or material resources to realize these projects. Even simple essentials, like pencils, brushes, and paint, or spaces where children can spend time and receive love and support, often need to be improved.
These are basic necessities in our eyes, yet they are crucial for the well-being and development of both children and adults. That’s why we invite you to join our team as a volunteer or sponsor to support our projects. Together, we can work towards ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Your contribution, whether big or small, will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Let’s come together and make a positive impact on our communities.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the future of Guards of the Dream?
A cornerstone of any successful charity foundation is providing long-term aid and support to assist those affected by war. Children are inherently designed for joy. They thrive when they experience happiness, whether alone or with friends, even within the confines of a classroom. Joy serves as the driving force behind life, success, and knowledge. When concerns arise about a child’s inability to learn or their perceived lack of control, I often respond by highlighting the absence of joy in their lives.
Children who are filled with kindness, friendliness, and joy are the individuals we aspire to see more of in our communities. Therefore, our primary focus should be on instilling in children the values of kindness, joy, and love above all else. By nurturing these qualities within them, we can help shape a future generation that embodies compassion, positivity, and resilience.
Lastly, is there anything else you would like to share with our readers about the importance of providing education and support to children, sports, local communities, and regions affected by the war, or are there any upcoming projects or initiatives they should be aware of?
Indeed, numerous plans and ideas are on the horizon, ranging from reconstructing school buildings and stadiums to supporting talented youth. One of the central ideas we are passionate about is the establishment of inclusive schools across Ukraine, catering to both gifted and talented children alongside those with disabilities. This concept took root in recent months as I witnessed the beautiful synergy between typical children and those with disabilities. It became clear to me that children have an innate ability to help each other develop, offer support, express love, share worries, and explore new emotions.
It’s essential to recognize that there are no wrong emotions; they simply exist. As human beings, we all experience a range of emotions, and there should be no shame or condemnation attached to any of them. While it’s ideal to live in a stable emotional state where we can manage our feelings effectively, there are times when we may find ourselves swept up in excitement or engulfed by depression, leading our emotions to control our actions and words. Through understanding and acceptance, we can navigate these fluctuations in emotional states and strive to maintain a healthy balance in our lives.
Before we conclude, is there anything else you’d like to share that we haven’t had the chance to discuss yet? Are there any additional insights, stories, or initiatives you feel are important for the readers to know about?
We could fill volumes with the myriad stories unfolding within the foundation’s sphere of influence. However, I must spotlight a remarkable group of volunteers from our “Our Tails” project – dedicated to the animals that share our lives and have also been impacted by the challenging circumstances in Ukraine.
These volunteers devote themselves to assisting newly established shelters and aiding animals who have lost their homes in reuniting with loving families. Prioritizing the welfare of our furry companions, they tirelessly provide medical treatment and nourishment and tirelessly work to ensure that every tail receives the care and attention it deserves. Their unwavering commitment to our animal friends is truly inspiring, and we are immensely grateful for their compassionate efforts.
Support Guards of the Dream
INTERNATIONAL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION «GUARDS OF THE DREAM»
БЛАГОДІЙНА ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ «МІЖНАРОДНИЙ БЛАГОДІЙНИЙ ФОНД «ВАРТОВІ МРІЇ»
Код: 45361472
IBAN: UA053052990000026004030131379, АТ КБ «ПриватБанк», МФО 305299
Address: Україна, 07400, Київська обл., м. Бровари, вул. Шолом-Алейхема, 93, оф. 2
Phone: +380686708697
Email: 31051984@ukr.net
