This summer, we once again held the stationary YMCA Zdolbuniv camp with the support of YMCA Europe and Roots for Peace.

In July, a creative camp for participants of the TenSing program took place at the beautiful Lake Pisochne. The five days spent together were filled with creativity, songs, dances, and workshops — becoming a true celebration of art, teamwork, and inspiration.

The camp brought together 20 teenagers aged 13 and older, who spent the week immersing themselves in the world of singing, dancing, and acting. The program was rich with workshops, trainings, and creative challenges that helped each participant discover their talent and learn to work together as a team.

In addition to creative sessions, the participants took part in various art workshops, where they could try new roles — from creating stage images to performing their own original acts.

The campers also enjoyed plenty of fun by the lake — swimming, jumping off the pier, riding pedal boats and SUP boards, filming TikToks, taking part in relays and even their own version of the “Olympic Games.”

And as a surprise for the leaders, the kids even organized and ran a night quest all by themselves!

The final highlight of the camp was the showcase concert, where the participants revealed their talents to the fullest. It was a performance,  that combined song, dance, and acting — the three essential elements that became the heart of the camp.

Participants’ Impressions

Arina, 13 years old:

 “I really liked that we all became one big family. I overcame my fear of performing on stage, and now I want to sing even more!”

Tymofii, 14 years old:

 “It was awesome! I’ll never forget the rehearsals — we laughed a lot and supported each other. And the evening performance by the campfire was unforgettable.”

Nastia, 13 years old:

 “This was my first TenSing camp, and it exceeded all my expectations! I learned how to dance and act in ways I’d never tried before.”

Marta, 13 years old:

 “Five days flew by like one moment! The most valuable thing for me was new friends and the feeling that we created something truly special together.”

The creative camp at Lake Pisochne became not only a place for learning and fun but also a space for growth, support, and self-expression. And although it lasted only five days, the memories will remain in the hearts of the participants for a long time.

This year, as part of the international project Camp Europe, a five-day inclusive camp “Elements” was held, the participants of which were children and youth with disabilities. It was not just a vacation – it was a deep educational and entertainment program aimed at development, support and creation of an atmosphere of equality and friendship.
Each day of the camp symbolized one of the elements – fire, water, earth and air. Through creativity, games, master classes and team activities, children had the opportunity to feel the power of each element and understand that together they create harmony. The last, fifth day became a celebration of unity, because all the elements united, like the camp participants themselves – in a community where each individual is valued.

Special attention was paid to inclusivity: every child, regardless of their characteristics, had the opportunity to show their abilities, receive support from mentors and volunteers, learn new things and make friends. For many participants, the camp became a space where they first felt that their voice was important, their talents were valuable, and their presence made the team more complete.

“We created an environment where children with disabilities do not feel barriers, but on the contrary – they discover new horizons for themselves, reveal their potential and feel needed,” the organizers note.
The “Element” camp proved that inclusivity is not only about accessibility, but also about true equality, support and acceptance. This is a space where a child with a disability becomes not “different”, but an equal among peers.

The healing influence of nature, positive emotions, an atmosphere of support, creative inspiration, and physical activity are what YMCA Zhytomyr built its camp strategy for children and teenagers around. The name “Grow from the Roots” was not chosen by chance, because our mission was to show children that the basis for support for your mental health and personal growth can be your own roots: your history, your people, your culture; to show that you are not alone, not lonely, that behind each of us is a whole clan. And the place for the camp was not chosen by chance, the farmstead called “Polish Hut” preserves the spirit of ancient times, there is an old Ukrainian hut with all the equipment: a stove, a bed, benches, a chest with embroidery, and old dishes. All this helps to immerse yourself in a sense of unity with history. An important role was also played by the fact that it was in the territory of the village of Gorodske that the remains of the ancient Trypillya culture were found.

During the camp, the children learned new things about the history of their native land, sang old songs, studied tanks, and learned to weave wreaths. After visiting the Museum of Trypillya Culture, they made amulets for themselves and their relatives from clay, trying to recreate ancient signs seen during the excursion. After visiting the Khatyna of artist Yuri Kamyshny, they learned artistic painting on textile products. This way, we combined the development of the mind and spirit. Sports games and physical activities (trampoline races, tubing down the slide), as well as helping the owners of the farm in the field, helped to take care of the body.

This year, the camp was attended by children from the city and local children from the village, who joined in the daytime activities. It was interesting to watch the children communicate, how they gradually became closer and became friends. The psychological state of the children was helped by tracking the Blob tree and providing support to those who need it most.
The experience of children independently preparing numbers for the concert was interesting, when everyone could reveal themselves, their leadership qualities and creative talents. This year, for the first time, we had camp leaders among teenagers, who did 100% and next year we will definitely invite them again. It is nice to see how both the leaders and the camp participants still maintain contact, gathering for Saturday meetings at the YMCA, because it is so important not to lose your people in this wide world.

This summer, the You Are Not Alone – Mini camp brought together children from socially unprivileged families for an unforgettable week in the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains. For many of them, it was the very first time they had ever seen the mountains — the mist-covered peaks, the endless forests, and the pure mountain air became a magical backdrop to a week that was about so much more than just activities.

While we had prepared games, workshops, and creative projects, it quickly became clear that the children needed something far deeper — genuine communication, friendship, and the feeling of being heard. Many of them live in situations where material goods are scarce, but what they miss even more is consistent emotional support and connection. Around the campfire, during morning hikes, or over shared meals, they opened up to each other and to the leaders, forming bonds that felt like family.

The feedback from the children was heartwarming and humbling.

“I didn’t know people could listen like this,” one camper said quietly after an evening talk.

Another shared, “I thought I would come here to play games, but I found friends instead.”

The You Are Not Alone – Mini camp was a reminder that sometimes the greatest gift we can give is not a material present, but our time, attention, and a safe place to belong. The Carpathians gave them beauty to remember — but it was the people who gave them the memories that will last.

Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by their homeland, 32 Ukrainian children found a week of pure joy, friendship and personal growth at the YMCA Georgia “Camp Orange” summer camp “A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed” organized within “Camp Europe” project. From August 8th to 14th, 2025, the picturesque camp grounds transformed into a vibrant haven, carefully designed to offer a safe space where each participant could thrive and discover their full potential.

The program at YMCA “Camp Orange” was really entertaining, having a diverse list of both outdoor and indoor activities that captivated and engaged every child. From the thrill of conquering the climbing tower to the refreshing splash of pool swimming, every moment was filled with excitement and new experiences. With archers mastering their aim and many of the mini-golf players trying their luck in the sport for the first time. The entire campground served as a busy hub of activity, hosting various events that fostered teamwork and healthy competition.

Beyond the camp’s boundaries, the adventure continued with a hiking trip to a nearby National Park, allowing the children to connect with Georgia’s stunning natural beauty. The highlight for many was undoubtedly a memorable visit to the sea, where all the participants had something fun to engage into: be is swimming, building sandcastles or playing ball on the beach.

But it wasn’t just about the activities, it was about the atmosphere. The dedicated YMCA staff worked tirelessly to create an environment where every child felt secure, valued and empowered to express themselves. The smiles on the children’s faces were a testament to the success of the program, reflecting a profound sense of happiness and safety throughout their stay.

One participant, 12-year-old Olena, perfectly expressed the sentiment of the entire group: “I felt so safe and happy here. I loved climbing the tower and swimming in the pool, but most of all, I loved making new friends. I wish I could stay forever!”

“A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed” Summer Camp for Ukrainian children stands as a powerful example of compassion and support. It provided not just a temporary escape, but a vital opportunity for these young individuals to experience normality, build resilience and create cherished memories that will undoubtedly light their path forward. The success of this initiative underlines the importance of fostering such empowering experiences, demonstrating that even in challenging times, hope and joy can flourish.

 

This July, in the peaceful village of Nyzhnie Selyshche, twenty teenagers from across Ukraine came together for a special experience — a visual and audio arts camp called Every Person is a Film. Held in the warm embrace of the Carpathians, the camp invited young people affected by war — both directly and indirectly — to look at the world, and at themselves, a little differently.

The camp wasn’t about training future directors or photographers. It was about giving young people the space and tools to see, to reflect, and to express. Through photography, sound recordings, and short video exercises, participants explored how their phones could be not just a way to escape, but a way to look more closely. The lens became a way to ask questions, and the frame — a way to feel in control of how they see their story.

The days were filled with quiet walks, shared meals, deep conversations, and unexpected laughter. At night, they sat in circles reviewing each other’s work, not to judge, but to understand. Some had never before spoken about their experiences of leaving home, losing loved ones, or simply feeling disconnected. Through images and sounds, they found new ways to say what words sometimes cannot.

One boy said, “I never thought silence could be recorded — but now I have a sound file that feels exactly like that morning when I didn’t want to talk.”

Another shared, “I came here thinking I don’t know how to take photos. I’m leaving knowing I can show who I am without saying anything.”

Every Person is a Film reminded us that teenagers don’t just need rest — they need meaning, trust, and creative space. In just eight days, a group of strangers became a community of quiet witnesses to one another’s worlds. And perhaps most importantly, they learned that their story matters — and it’s worth documenting.

In August 2025, a teenage career guidance summer camp was held in Vinnytsia, organized by YMCA Lviv together with Vinnytsia Scientific Lyceum, with the support of UMSA Europe. For 5 days, participants had the opportunity to relax and at the same time think more deeply about their future professions.

The main goal of the camp was to help teenagers see the opportunities that the adult world opens up for them. After all, most young people who are currently studying in senior classes are lost in their choices: they do not always see prospects and do not know what to expect from adult life.

During the program, participants met with experts from various professions, participated in master classes and excursions, were introduced to the best educational institutions of Lviv, and learned how many different professions are in demand in Ukraine. And we also had the time and opportunity to enjoy the summer and rest: we walked around the neighborhood, spent evenings with a campfire and just chatted with new friends.

Here is what the participants say about the camp:

Khrystyna: “I can say that it was the best camp I have ever been to (and I have been to many). I was very surprised when they started us with different cool places such as: UCU, IT STEP, puppet theater, Museum of Science…. There were not very many of us, and we were all one friendly company. We continue to communicate with everyone and are already looking forward to meeting each other.”

Demyan: “The best decision of the organizers was that we had a plan at the same time, but at the same time freedom of action. You visited different interesting locations, and then you can calmly walk, grill barbecue and enjoy the summer.”

Anna: ”I liked the youth leadership training from the YMCA the most, this topic is very interesting for me. And also, the cooking master class, it was informative and fun, and it was even more fun to eat the macaroni that we prepared 🙂 ”

This camp became a place for the participants where they really found friends, received support, better understood their interests and saw opportunities for self-realization!

A total of four days at camp with parents, friends, children of all ages and great weather! At Family Camp we met families from Ukraine that has fled a war but now try to find some sort of regular life in Sweden.

Together with leaders from NGO Sensus they meet regularly in the city but were finally able to come to the countryside and to Brevik. Activities were planned by campers from Brevik camp, specifically guests from Becket and Chimney Corners, YMCA camp in the US.

The campers were at the end of a four-week trip and were practicing their leadership and planning skills, so this provided the perfect opportunity. During camp they sang songs at the campfire, grilled sausages, made arts and crafts, played games, giggled uncontrollably whilst rolling down a big hill and much more.

But nothing seemed to be as popular as Potato Olympics! Originally Orange Olympics (but there were not enough oranges), potato Olympics involves finding your favorite potato, naming it, and giving it a whole host attributes that can be useful in a potato Olympics. And then the games begin! Help your potato jump, run and do all kinds of things. Sounds silly, but this was easily the most popular activity of the camp and it created lots of great memories.

All in all, the camp gave a welcome pause to life in the city and provided a good opportunity for kids to be kids, and for grown ups to find some calm and enjoy a moment of summer. Happy campers all around, and a successful collaboration between our organisations!

 

Written by Adam Westerholm, Operations Coordinator at YMCA Breviks course and camp site

🌿 We spent our summer camp in the world! 🕊️

This summer, children have a unique opportunity to spend time at camp.

Our Peace Camp brought together children who suffered from war and gave them a week of joy, support and recovery.
We lived in nature, by the river, we learned to take care of the environment – we sorted garbage, used reusable dishes, took care of every twig and drop of water.

✨ learned about the history and values ​​of the YMCA global movement
✨ develop soft skills – the ability to communicate, listen to each other, resolve conflicts
✨ talked about non-violent communication, equality, uniqueness of each person, tolerance and diversity of cultures and religions
✨ worked in teams and mini-groups
✨ they did yoga, pilates, played football, volleyball, painted, sang and danced

These were good days, filled with sincere smiles, friendship, conversations by the fire and dreams of peace. I’m sick again.

Thank you very much to YMCA Europe for your support, trust and belief in you, that the children of Ukraine deserve childhood, fulfillment of joy and hope

I ️ We had 2 camp shifts of 5 days each, among the camp participants were internally displaced persons, children from families who were forced to leave their homes because of the war, children from military families, local children. У нас видпочивали children aged 6-12 years, 55 children (25 boys, 30 girls), of them 29% VPO (16 people), 36% children, fathers of military servicemen (20 people), 35% local children. 8 leaders of the organization were involved in the implementation of the camp.

This summer we again held a stationary camp at YMCA Vinnytsia with the support of YMCA Europe and our partners.

In July, a week-long camp for 68 children aged 5 to 16 years was held on the territory of the Butterfly SPA-Hotel recreation complex in the picturesque village of Sadove. Every day was filled with activities, creative workshops, games and sports competitions, creating a safe space for development and recovery after the war experience.

The children lived in comfortable rooms, ate 4 times a day according to the “Swedish line” system, and there were pools and a forest nearby, where you could enjoy nature and relax. The camp program combined creativity, physical development, team games and spiritual meetings aimed at increasing self-esteem, forming leadership skills and patriotic values.

Entries of participants:

Milana, 10 years:
«I never thought I could perform in front of such a large group. Tut I overcame my fear and found new friends!”

Karina, 10 years:
«I liked it very much, because we danced, painted and danced. This feeling of unity was incredible!”

Pavlo, 10 years:
«Here I learned to work in a team and help others. I feel confident and strong!”

Stepan, 12 years old:
«This camp gave me faith that even in difficult hours you can be happy and enjoy life. I will remember this whole life!”

During the week, children took part in quests, sports relays, creative and intellectual games. Заключним акордом став путуковий вечер, where «Мис и Мистера табору» were chosen, and the children were able to demonstrate their talents, creativity and new skills.

The support of partners, among whom the charitable organization “I help children”, ДСНС of Vinnytsia region, art studios and local craftsmen, allowed to organize a safe, fulfilling and complex holiday for children.

Camp “Give your child a piece of your heart” became not only a space for recreation, but also a source of faith, inspiration and recovery for children growing up in the realities of war.