Camp Europe Project by YMCA Georgia: a week of friendship and healing.

Amidst the immense challenges of conflict, displacement and despair, Camp Europe project has emerged as a true beacon of hope for children from Ukraine in 2024. This initiative, designed to foster integration and provide much-needed stress relief, has already been a transformative experience for hundreds of young people from Ukraine in their own country and across Europe.

Held at YMCA Georgia Camp Orange on August 15 – 21, 2024 for 15 Ukrainian and 15 Georgian peers, the activity “Together… Stronger!” offered a safe and supportive environment where children were able to escape the hardships of their daily lives.

One of the primary goals of Camp Europe initiative in Georgia was to promote understanding and tolerance between Georgian and Ukrainian children. By sharing their unique experiences and perspectives, participants learnt to appreciate the diversity of own and each other’s cultures and to break down stereotypes.

Through a variety of activities, including outdoor adventures, creative workshops and cultural exchanges, participants had the opportunity to connect with each other, explore the nature, discover their talents and build lasting friendships.

For many children from Ukraine, the camp session at Camp Orange provided a much-needed respite from the trauma and anxiety associated with conflict and displacement. Through counseling sessions, group activities and peer support, participants managed to process their emotions, develop adequate coping mechanisms and gain a sense of resilience.

Camp Europe is more than just a summer camp support measure, it serves as a catalyst for change. By fostering integration, promoting healing and empowering young people, the initiative is helping to build a brighter future for a new generation of Ukrainians in partnership with the local communities.

And as the world continues to grapple with the challenges of war in Ukraine, Camp Europe project offers a powerful example of how much the relevant initiatives and proper partnerships can do to support those in need. By providing a safe and nurturing environment across Europe, the camps are helping to heal the wounds of war, foster understanding and inspire hope for a more peaceful future.