United by Sports & Culture: Polish – Ukrainian YMCA Camp

The United by Sports & Culture YMCA Summer Camp in Poland (7th -13th July), part of the Camp Europe program, was held in Olsztyn, a city known for its lakes and forests, 220 km north of Warsaw.

Organized together with Monsters Club Warszawa, a traditional partner of YMCA, the camp benefited 26 children from the long-term Polish-Ukrainian integration program.

The camp embraced the YMCA motto of “body-mind-spirit,” promoting balanced development. Many campers were already familiar with this approach through their participation in the integration program.

A key focus was on mental health, addressing war trauma among Ukrainian children and typical adolescent challenges for Polish children.

Each child received individual support, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment. The facilities, rented from Warmia-Mazury University, are known for their eco-friendly infrastructure.

The diverse camp program included daily sports and recreation, visits to science and innovation centers, the Olsztyn Planetarium, historic tours of Olsztyn, aqua training, English-language games, and various competitions and quizzes. These activities helped city children connect with nature and learn about rural life.

Professional staff and volunteers, including a child psychotherapist, ensured every child felt comfortable and included. Two younger camp leaders also demonstrated strong abilities in working with children. The motivated and cohesive YMCA program team in Poland continues to drive the initiative forward.

The camp significantly contributed to rebuilding the YMCA movement in Poland. Despite challenges like branding issues and financial constraints delaying formal registration, the organization remains active in Warsaw. We are close to completing this process, and the goal of a fully legal YMCA Poland is within reach.

This camp was co-financed by YMCA Europe from CAMP EUROPE PROJECT – within the framework of Roots for Peace programme.

Camp Europe 2024 Selection Process Finalised

Summer is here, and as the temperatures rise, the Camp Europe team also reaches the busiest (and exciting!) period of the year. After months of fundraising, planning, and strategizing, Camp Europe 2024 is ready to commence.

YMCA Europe has received 27 proposals from partner organisations all over Europe. Based on technical recommendations, the YMCA Europe Executive Staff Tasks Force approved funding for 17 camps in an official meeting. Out of these, 10 camps will be held in Ukraine, six in neighbouring countries, and one in Palestine.

With a total budget of 140,000 Euros, Camp Europe 2024 aims to enhance the summer experience for more than 740 direct beneficiaries.

To assist partner organizations and ensure the successful implementation of each camp, at this stage, the Camp Europe team is communicating with partner organizations to finalize grant applications and set up the process for project implementation, monitoring, and evaluation plan.

The team will follow up the process with additional communication regarding communication and media guidelines. Our aim, as the Camp Europe team, is to be part of every camp while giving partners full freedom to facilitate the project based on their vision, deal with day-to-day challenges with them, and then celebrate the success together – because at Camp Europe you are not alone.

Unfortunately, due to the lack of funds and high competition, several very strong applications were rejected due to not fully meeting the criteria; However, the good news is this is only the test year of the Camp Europe project.

A minimum of two more rounds of funding will be available for 2025-2026 years, therefore we encourage those who did not apply or did not get their applications approved this season to keep an eye on the updates and the next opportunity to join the Camp Europe family.

The first camp will commence on the 1st of July, followed by the rest of the camp throughout the rest of the summer. We encourage you to keep an eye on our activities, watch our news and read our empowering stories as the campaign will incorporate online fundraisers to secure the future of Camp Europe, and our common goal – establishing camping culture as one of the main youth activities designed not only for advancing young people’s physical abilities and creating beautiful memories, but for trauma healing and a sense of relief during hard days.

The team is working on securing more funding for the project, to provide more opportunities for interested parties. As a final note, exciting news, we are glad to be able to share, that as it was this year in Spain, we are already working on the next Campacity Conference 2025 which will take place on April 7-13, in Berlin.

Our gratitude to everyone who is creating Camp Europe, for their support and encouragement. Each contribution, kind word, shared experience and simple picture matters, and motivates us to keep going. Busy days are ahead, but we know we are not alone!

YMCA Camp Europe Campacity Conference 2024 in Spain

After months of planning and hard work, Campacity 2024 took place over April 15th-21st in Toledo, Spain at the Castillo de San Servando youth centre, with the support of the local government. We then moved across to YMCA Camp Priego and were hosted by YMCA Spain

The second “Campacity” Conference was a joint initiative of YMCA Europe & Y USA, hosted by YMCA Spain that aimed to:

Increase capacity of YMCA Camp Europe with human resources able to offer relevant and innovation-led ideas on forms and contents of camp programmes, whereby they are focused on trauma-healing or mental health, life-skills or resilience development, refugee rehabilitation or integration, conflict management and transformation, etc.
Build capacity for the YMCA Camping Movement to work with war affected young people and families in Europe – with a focus on, but not exclusively limited to Ukrainian IDPs
During one week of sessions, participants:

Strengthened their capacity as camp programme leaders to deliver relevant and innovative programs focused on trauma healing, development of life skills, conflict management & refugee integration;
Gained practical tools, skills and resources for camp management;
Became catalysts for deeper strategic cooperation within camping program in Europe;
Built a network of camp peers between Europe and the United States.

All this was made possible through a successful collaboration between the YMCA Europe and Y USA participants and by sharing the meaningful work each national or local YMCA does. 75 Participants (46% being female and 54% male) from 15 different countries came together motivated to learn and share, with the aim that united them all – love of camping and belief in it’s impact. As the team was diverse not only culturally, but also in terms of work, approaches and methodologies for accomplishing their goals, strategies, experience, and backgrounds, the team had an opportunity to explore different dimensions and share best practices, get inspired and create connections for future collaborations.

“Met amazing people, felt appreciated and valued for what I do and for everything that I am trying to do.”

The program was balanced with capacity-building sessions and cultural exposure time designed to help connect and create connections. Participants had the option to attend workshops for many cross cutting topics that play a crucial role in the creation of a successful camp such as strategy building, fundraising, partnerships, monitoring and evaluations just to name a few. Apart from this, they had an opportunity to learn about the Do No Harm methodology, as in today’s world, it is crucial to stay mindful of our actions, plans and projects.

Furthermore, the beauty of Campacity was equality which made the whole week more special. Everyone was given equal opportunities to share their work, culture and experiences. It is wonderful to see people coming together from different parts of the world and uniting around the same values, beliefs and goals for the betterment and strengthening of the YMCA and the camping culture.

“I hope to intentionally hold hands with all leaders here as we build better connections for increasing the capacity of camp impact worldwide.”

The Conference was hosted by YMCA Spain at Castillo de San Servando and Camp Priego. The team demonstrated amazing hospitality and great commitment to the project. The historical city of Toledo allowed participants to explore and connect, while Camp Priego created a sense of community and helped participants get back to their roots – camps.

As a final note, it needs to be mentioned how wonderful and empowering it is to see people working hard today with whatever means they have to create a better tomorrow, and Campacity demonstrated that even if we live thousands of kilometres away from each other, we are part of something bigger;

Campacity Conference 2024 was the beginning of a productive Summer 2024 which is promising various Camp Europe camps and activities to bring together more people and contribute to the cause and to the development of European Camps. Camp Europe 2024 Call for Applications is already open. Apart from this, the team has discussions regarding future plans for International gathering 2025 and various activities that will strengthen the Partnerships created during Campacity 2024. Therefore, here is a beautiful beginning of a strong collaboration and Camp Europe – so you are not alone.

“CAMP EUROPE” CALL FOR APPLICATIONS 2024

YMCA Europe is announcing a second round of funding opportunities within the framework of its “Camp Europe” Initiative.

INTRODUCTION
The overall aim of “Camp Europe” is to build resilience amongst children and young people affected by the violent conflicts ongoing in and around Europe (Ukraine especially considered), to this end offering safe-space through YMCA summer camps for relief and rehabilitation, trauma-healing and integration.

In 2023 YMCA Europe launched the pilot initiative which saw 16 projects across Europe supported. Highlights include a month-long children’s program in the Czech Republic and a peace camp delivered by YMCA Artsakh, both providing spaces for children and young people to learn, heal and rejuvenate with the will to help and support one another; fundamentally it’s about the drive to bring about positive change and Do No Harm.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

YMCAs in Europe that demonstrate capacities in relief and rehabilitation, trauma-healing and integration services for war affected children and young people are invited to apply.

All proposed interventions are required to fall within the above mentioned overall aim of the “Camp Europe” initiative and are to be held in the form of residential summer camps.

The maximum sum requested should not exceed 10 000 EUR. A contribution of at least 10% of the total budget is required from the applicant organisations operating in conflict affected countries and at least 40% of the total budget from the applicant partners based elsewhere in Europe.

Volunteer time and in-kind contributions will be considered as eligible and must be agreed beforehand.

A Minimum 50% of direct beneficiaries of proposed projects must be war affected children, young people or IDPs (internally displaced person) living in/around war zones (e.g. Ukraine or neighbouring countries) or refugees.

For integration activities the participation of the host community participants is anticipated and welcome, as long as their number does not exceed 50% of direct beneficiaries.

Eligible Costs: Board, Lodging, Transportation, Activity Costs, Materials & Supplies, Expertise & Facilitation, Administration (maximum 10%).

CONTRACTING CRITERIA

Disbursement of the project funds is subject to a formal agreement to be signed between YMCA Europe and partner organisation, assuming the following responsibilities for the recipient entity:

★ As part of the contracting process to provide YMCA Europe with implementation plan, timeframe and budget breakdown of granted project.
★ Upon the completion of the project to provide YMCA Europe with a narrative report, including the list of participants, summary evaluations (if available), and visual (video, photo, publications, etc.) materials.
★ Upon the completion of the project to provide YMCA Europe with financial reports, incl. the proofs of expenditure (receipts, checks, etc.) and/or audit resolution.
★ Ensure the visibility of the project with the YMCA Europe logo, as well as with the reference to YMCA Camp Europe initiative to appear on any document, publication, website, etc. linked to the project.

DISBURSEMENT SCHEDULE:

★ 80% of funds will be provided upon the signature of the contract and prior to the start of the project.
★ Remaining 20% of funds will be provided upon the submission and approval of financial and narrative reporting.

No Cash Transactions are allowed.

APPLICATION, ACTIVITY & REPORTING TIMEFRAME

★ The deadline for applications is May 31, 2024. “Camp Europe” Application form is provided as an attachment to the Call and is available for download
★ Applications must be sent in electronic format to campeurope@ymcaeurope.com. Selection will be carried out by YMCA Europe Task Force. Contracting process is to be completed by June 30, 2024.
★ All projects must be finished by August 31, 2024.
★ All Narrative & Financial Reports must be submitted by October 31, 2024. “Camp Europe” Narrative & Financial Report forms will be provided upon project approval.

Attach 2024 Application form – Camp Europe Application 2024.doc

YMCA CAMP EUROPE “CAMPACITY” CONFERENCE CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS

YMCA Europe invites all interested YMCA organisations to apply for Camp Capacity Building Conference “Campacity”, to be implemented within the framework of “Camp Europe” project.

The detailed description of the Conference and the application form are provided below:

YMCA Camp Europe “Campacity” Conference is a joint initiative of YMCA Europe & the YMCA of the USA that aims to:

Capacitate YMCA Camp Europe with human resources able to offer relevant and innovation-led ideas on forms and contents of camp programmes, whereby they are focused on trauma-healing or mental health, life-skills or resilience development, refugee rehabilitation or integration, conflict management and transformation, etc.
Build capacity for the YMCA Camping Movement to work with war affected young people and families in Europe – with a focus on, but not exclusively limited to Ukrainian IDPs and refugees.

Bringing together up to 80 leaders from the U.S. and European YMCAs working with refugees or youth affected by conflict, the conference attendees will:

Strengthen their capacity as camp programme leaders to deliver relevant and innovative programs focused on trauma-healing, development of life skills, conflict management & refugee integration;
Gain practical tools, skills and resources for camp management;
Become a catalyst for deeper strategic cooperation within camping program in Europe;
Build a network of camp peers between Europe and the United States.

PROFILE OF PARTICIPANTS

The Conference is organized for participants who are/have:

Representing the YMCA organizations/institutions that currently provide services or intend to do so for beneficiaries affected by the conflicts in Europe and beyond, the war in Ukraine especially considered.
Representing the YMCA organizations/institutions that have existing international (US – Europe) partnerships or are willing to establish them.
Decision makers, camp directors, program leaders or team members eligible to assume the responsibility for development and enhancement of camping programs in Europe and the United States.
Competent and willing to share their knowledge and experience in camp program management to the other participants of the Conference.
In a position to transfer the knowledge gained during the Conference to respective sending organizations and the teams carrying out camping activities.
Previous experience in camping programs and the motivation to further develop their competencies and skills.
Committed to attend the full duration of the Conference.
Fluent in English.

Campacity Conference welcomes all candidates who fulfil the specific profile outlined above – irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, religion, belief or sexual orientation.

CONFERENCE DATES: April 15 – 21, 2024

CONFERENCE LOCATION: San Servando Castle Toledo & YMCA Camp Priego, Spain

CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION FEE: € 350 per participant

NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS PER NATIONAL YMCA: Maximum 3

PARTICIPANT AGE: Twenty-one (21) & Above

NOTE: Subsidies (including travel costs) can be available upon request for the applicants from the selected countries & regions, such as: Ukraine, South Caucasus, Western Balkans; as well as from those organizations that partnered with YMCA Camp Europe pilot project in 2023.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Please submit your applications no later than February 15th , 2024.

Thank you!

Camp Europe: YMCA Artsakh

The people of Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) are going through difficult times, as they lost their homes. Being blockaded for 10 months and facing another war brought them to a completely new reality, where they became refugees. Young people of YMCA Artsakh were very active in social work during the blockade and the wartime. Young people who never had a chance for a careless youth days. Supporting their communities, both YMCA Artsakh leader David Melkumyan and the volunteers were doing their best to be useful to their society in this challenging time.

Despite all the difficulties, on July 24-30, YMCA Artsakh implemented the “Camp for Peace” with the funding of the “Camp Europe” project of YMCA Europe Roots for Peace.

This year, YMCA Artsakh brought together 97 young people from different regions of Artsakh (among them were many displaced persons and war survivors) and became the logical continuation of the previous 5 camps, which were organized in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022. Leaders from Artsakh were included in the working and organizers’ group.

The main components of the camp were:

Support for wound healing
Artsakh young people experienced war, some of them lost their homes and became refugees, and many of them lost their relatives and family members. Today, Artsakh is under siege, and young people have once again found themselves in a difficult situation. Some are deprived of the opportunity to see their relatives, and many have faced the difficulties of the blockade: empty shops, long queues for bread, no medical and hygienic supplies. The status and future of Artsakh are uncertain, that’s why young people continue to feel in danger. The post-war stress was compounded by the blockade, in addition to all that, a tense situation was always maintained in the area.

Educational part (courses and master classes)
YMCA is where you acquire soft skills and knowledge. During the week, participants learned much about first aid, teamwork, leadership skills, and more.

Tensing and cultural component
At the YMCA, the development of campers is essential, especially the development of creative thinking. Dancing, singing and theatre groups did their best to make the entertainment part of the camp as usual.

Sports events
The sports routine was full, a number of sports games were organised, and a volleyball championship between the home teams is worth mentioning.

“I want to mention new acquaintances, getting out of my comfort zone and, of course, discovering myself. During the 3 years of camp that I took part in, we all became good friends. New and different personalities were added to our big family this year. We learned a lot from each other, we understood that youth has an important role in society. Everyone had a great time at camp. This year, for the first time, my friend and I also tried ourselves in the role of organizational staff assistant, we will definitely need that responsible and interesting experience in the future. Finally, I want to thank YMCA Artsakh for this wonderful experience. In besieged Artsakh, in our daily life full of problems, we had 7 happy and peaceful days in one of the cosy places of Artsakh, Patara village. We needed that one week to reevaluate ourselves, to understand and try to contribute to the problems facing the motherland” Isabella Sargsyan, YMCA Artsakh volunteer.

Camp Europe: YMCA Czech Republic

YMCA Czech Republic emerged as one of the pioneers to get involved in the Camp Europe pilot initiative. Demonstrating an unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality programs for Ukrainian children, the organization elaborated an immersive camp experience that created unforgettable memories for those most in need of such enriching engagements.

Over the span of a month-long program, the YMCA Czech Republic team held five distinct camp programs, each characterized by unique thematic and activity-driven pursuits. Among the 70 attendees, a considerable 72% comprised Ukrainian Children.

The camp’s program included the following activities:

1. “Art Camp In the Footsteps of Animals” – During this week-long program, stories about the friendship between a fox and a rabbit were told. Together with a wide range of activities, this was a fantastic way to teach kids about friendship and being kind to each other.

2. “The Wild West Camp” – This camp took participants to a realm far from the modern world and technologies, immersing them in the charm of the Wild West, teaching them practical skills and promoting the core values of the YMCA.

3. “The Olympic Games Camp” – This camp focused on the physical development of children. It taught them to love nature and the importance of staying active, all while having a great time. Little champions had a chance to demonstrate their skills, and celebrate each other’s success together.

4. “Nature Enchants and Paints Art Camp” – Through this program, children were introduced to various ways of expressing themselves and being ingenious. The camp widened the door to the enchanting world of imagination and creativity while acquiring practical skills for everyday life.

5. And the fifth camp, “Journey to the Real Treasure” – This adventure-packed camp involved experiences such as canoeing, paddleboarding, walks by the waterfall and immersing themselves in mesmerizing scenery. The program was filled with an array of activities, which fosters mental well-being and contributes to children’s physical development.

Summing up the accomplishments of each camp and the team’s unwavering dedication to crafting unforgettable experiences for Ukrainian children is a story that cannot be narrated in a single sentence.

Camp Europe and all participating camps are more than just venues for games and adventures. They serve as spaces for healing and rejuvenation, offering inspiration and motivation for peace and togetherness. It’s about the will to help and support one another; it’s about the drive to bring about positive change and Do No Harm. Apart from the high-level program that the YMCA Czech Republic team delivered for Ukrainian children, there are other narratives that need to be told, and we are pleased to be the messenger of one of the inspiring stories that the team shared with us.

Story of YMCA Czech republic and The Musician from Ukraine

“Supporting people and supporting the community goes beyond camp and the fate of the entire Ukrainian community is close to our hearts. Unfortunately, we cannot influence the course of the war, but we are trying to mitigate as much as possible the impact on those whom God has sent us. There are that many stories! I would like to share one of them with a happy ending. About six months ago, a mother of two children, a teacher in our Ukrainian kindergarten, asked me if we as YMCA could try to invite her husband, whom she misses more and more, to our country. Without a verified invitation, the Ukrainian authorities would never allow Mr. Vasyl to visit us, even though he has a wife and children here whom he has not seen for a year and a half. We immediately started negotiations, started cooperation with the university where Mr. Vasyl works, and we succeeded. Mr. Vasyl spent a wonderful four weeks with us, and of course with his wife and two children. Since he is a professional musician, he also volunteered at our camps and other events and prepared wonderful workshops for the children. He went back to Ukraine and took his family with him. His wife and children will come back to our country again, but we are already planning another invitation!”

We would like to thank YMCA Czech Republic for the commitment and hard work, and for creating a summer wonderland for the little ones.

Camp Europe Pilot Initiative (2023)

Camp Europe: A summer of peace and healing for Ukrainian kids and young people.

Within YMCA Europe Roots for Peace framework, 16 YMCA projects across Europe served hundreds of beneficiaries during this summer, the majority of them being Ukrainian kids and young people – temporarily displaced from home or still living in their places of origin, despite all the hardships and devastation.

Originally planning to support 5-7 projects in the pilot year, we are thrilled and inspired to have received more than double that number of applications. This remarkable response underscores the empathy and solidarity of the YMCA family in Europe towards the incredibly vital and noble cause of improving the lives of children while nurturing the enduring flame of hope and faith in humanity.

We know that supporting more projects will be extra work for the Roots staff, but we are committed to it. We believe that this is an important cause, and we are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children across Europe.

At the “Family camp” in Verkhovyna, Ukraine, participants engaged in thoughtfully designed programs offering a variety of activities, such as crafting toys, creating beautiful mosaics, and a diversity of other exercises fostering creativity, teamwork, and hands-on learning.

A week-long camp “Paradise in the Carpathians” by YMCA Karpaty (Ukraine) has took place. During the camp, participants had an opportunity to engage in a variety of sports activities, creative workshops, and invigorating excursions.

The evenings have been packed with activities that promote bonding and relaxation. Throughout this entire experience, the safety and well-being of the participants have been diligently prioritized, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity for those who greatly needed it.

The Volyn YMCA in Lutsk, Ukraine team successfully implemented the “You Are Not Alone” camp. From creative arts and crafts to thrilling sports and insightful sessions with psychologists, the activities have been truly enchanting.

With the unwavering support of the YMCA Volyn team, the children have formed new friendships, expanded their social circles, and developed the ability to connect with others based on essential Christian values such as love, responsibility, honesty, and kindness.

YMCA Kropyvnytskyi (Ukraine) team implemented the Peace Camp, which offered a unique riverside recreational experience, featuring activities such as yoga, outdoor games, volleyball, swimming, and even dinners by the riverbank – truly wonderful conditions for spending hot August days and creating a peaceful atmosphere for those who need it.

Another remarkable camp, Side-by-side, orchestrated by YMCA Poltava. Young participants have experienced numerous incredible moments. Every single day, they explore the realm of new adventures, absorb fresh knowledge, share their stories, and form new friendships.

From engaging workshops to athletic accomplishments, from unforgettable discos to inspiring creative sessions – the YMCA Poltava team ensured to infuse each day with curiosity and the thrill of exploration.

A fresh week leads to new journeys. The International HarmonY Camp 2.0, organized by YMCA Romania as part of the Camp Europe initiative, assembles a diverse group of campers.

Young people from YMCA Romania (Romanians and Ukrainians), YMCA Ukraine, YMCA Moldova, and YMCA Camp Duncan USA are set to embark on a week filled with new experiences, education, and meaningful exchanges. Our heartfelt wishes accompany the team as they set forth on this journey.

35 Ukrainian kids had a blast from the very first day at YMCA Orange Camp in Georgia.

YMCA Plzeň-Starý Plzenec, Czech Republic, has once again achieved success with their recent Art Camp, “In the Footsteps of Animals.” This camp is just one of the many wonderful programs that the YMCA Czech Republic team is organizing for Ukrainian children, within the framework of the Camp Europe pilot initiative.

During “The Wild West Camp” organised by YMCA Czech Republic, children were involved in a wide range of sports activities, expanded their vocabulary, crafted jewellery and shirts, gained knowledge about Indigenous traditions and practised their languages.

Additionally, they had an incredible experience in a genuine Indigenous teepee near Mariánské Lázně, where they acquired survival techniques without relying on modern technology. Is not this truly marvelous?!

Once again, YMCA Czech Republic has amazed us with an extraordinary camp! At “The Olympic Games Camp” kids created their very own fictional nations to champion in the Olympics. Despite the rainy weather, a plethora of activities awaited the little ones, offering them an abundance of joy while nurturing their Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Hats off to YMCA Czech Republic for fostering such a holistic and engaging experience for the young ones!

Within the Art Camp’s framework, youngsters engage in a multitude of imaginative activities designed to nurture their creative aptitude. Beyond hands-on activities, the participants were treated to folk tales that enriched their cultural understanding, while the melodic strains of an accordion added a delightful experience to their days at the camp.

During the Nature Camp – Journey to the Real Treasure, in addition to fostering essential outdoor skills, the young adventurers embarked on an unforgettable journey into nature. Activities included canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the Otava River, leisurely walks by the waterfall, and even fishing.

Following each eventful day, the evenings were enriched by a campfire and the harmonious melodies of the music.

In the midst of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Artsakh, the YMCA Artsakh “Camp for Peace” has encountered numerous difficulties this year.

With Artsakh being subjected to a complete blockade since December 12th, 2022, the youth participating in the camp have sought solace from the hardships they face on a daily basis, such as enduring long queues for bread and coping with the lack of electricity. In the picturesque village of Patara, the young people try to find joy and respite, allowing themselves to simply be carefree “young people” for a week.

Camp YMCA Liptovský Mikuláš (Slovakia) offered excursions to “Shtrebské Plesso”, “Slovakian Paradise”, a day at the water park “Tatralandia”, rafting, Ice Cave, climbing to the top of the Mount “Baranets” and of course, a bonfire on the last evening of the camp. All those things provided bright emotions and left incredible memories for the children.

“Take a Breath” camp was organised in Munich, offering a unique opportunity for YMCA Ukraine staff and volunteers to come together. The program was designed to create a safe space for all the leaders who are actively working in their local YMCAs and serving the communities of Ukraine.

As the summer comes to an end, the joy, friendships, and new hope created at Camp Europe camps will stay with Ukrainian children and youth.

The YMCA is dedicated to keeping this positivity alive, nurturing the impact of this summer’s projects into the future. Together, we’re lighting up a symbol of strength, showing that compassion and working together can bring lasting positive change to our European community.

YMCA Sports Program Unites Polish and Ukrainian Children in Olsztyn

Fabulous news from YMCA Mission in Poland, as twenty-one Polish and Ukrainian children participating in a joint sports program of the Monsters Club and YMCA Europe Mission in Poland left the hustle and bustle of big city life and went to Olsztyn (220 km to the North of Warsaw) between 10 and 16th of July, 2023.

Here, surrounded by lakes and forests, the kids found great conditions to strengthen their physical and mental health and develop sports skills.

They also could develop specific social skills, needed when being part of a team that is diverse in terms of nationality and language. The program of the camp reflected the motto of the YMCA: body-mind-spirit (which means the harmonious development of a human being).

They were familiar with the YMCA methodology as all of them participate in the integration Polish-Ukrainian program that has been run in Warszawa by the YMCA Europe Mission, and for most of them that was not the first camp organized by YMCA and their partners in Poland.

The camp’s itinerary was incredibly diverse and engaging, offering a wide array of activities. Apart from the regular sports and recreational pursuits, the program encompassed a visit to the University Equestrian Centre for bonfires and horseback riding, an enlightening encounter with masters of Chinese martial arts, a captivating guided tour through Olsztyn’s historic district, retracing the footsteps of Nicolaus Copernicus.

Additionally, there was an enjoyable coach trip to the open-air museum in Olsztynek, “English Everyday” sessions featuring entertaining games and competitions in English, cinema outings, thematic presentations, and a plethora of other enticing attractions. Participants were treated to a truly enriching and memorable experience throughout the camp.

The entire event unfolded in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with joy and positivity prevailing throughout each day, as evident from the wonderful photographs.

A team of dedicated professionals, which even included a child psychotherapist, spared no effort in ensuring that every child experienced a sense of ease and belonging. The main focus of the camp program was to empower and ensure that every child felt at ease, as they were upskilling, diversifying their knowledge, and practicing various sporting programs with a dedicated team of camp leads.

This camp was of significant importance for rebuilding the YMCA movement in Poland.

In May 2023, another event was organised with polish – ukrainian beneficiaries in Lipno.

This time the members of the Czarny Orzeł Club have paid a return visit. The Polish-Ukrainian team counted 11 people and participated in the training on YMCA methodology in action – it looked like they enjoyed it and were interested in further cooperation. It was another step towards developing common standards for organizing sports camps for children and youth.

YMCA Europe Mission in Poland has been implementing the Polish-Ukrainian integration program in partnership with the Warsaw-based sports club for children, Monsters.

The program, which began a year ago with a pilot project called “Polish-Ukrainian City Camp (Sport & Culture),” has been successfully providing integration after-school and camp programs for Polish and Ukrainian children and their families.

The camp is a part of YMCA Camp Europe initiative within Roots for Peace framework.

Camp Europe Pilot Initiative kick off

Just a few more days before the first activities within Camp Europe Pilot Initiative kick off… 16 YMCA projects across Europe will serve hundreds of beneficiaries during this summer, majority of them being Ukrainian kids and young people – temporarily displaced from home or still living in their places of origin, despite all the hardships and devastation.

Initially planning 5-7 projects for the pilot year, we are thrilled and inspired to have received and to be able to support more than a double envisaged number of applications – it is a vivid demonstration of empathy and solidarity of YMCA family in Europe towards very crucial and noble cause: to make the lives of children better, to keep the spark of hope and faith in humanity alive! And even if it’s extra work for the Roots staff, we remain committed to it.

We will be back soon with lots of stories, photos and videos filled with smiles and joy – stay tuned!