14 November — International Speech Therapist Day

This is a day dedicated to people who help children find their voice — in the most literal sense. Our speech therapists do more than teach children how to articulate sounds. They help them gain confidence, build communication skills, and freely express their thoughts and emotions. And this is the foundation for future success in learning, mastering the curriculum, and discovering new opportunities.

In speech development, the most important factor is time, which cannot be regained. Missed stages may affect a child’s future life, so timely support is crucial. We strive to help children who do not have access to speech therapists and psychologists — particularly in communities near the frontline or in remote settlements where such specialists are currently unavailable.

In 2025, speech therapy support from “Responsible Citizens” NGO will reach more than 1,500 children in communities living close to the war. Our specialists work in Child-Friendly Spaces as well as in mobile teams that travel to the places where support is needed most.

In Dnipropetrovsk region — over 950 children,
in Donetsk region — over 100,
in Zaporizhzhia region — over 210,
in Kharkiv region — over 230.

Each session is another step toward the word “mama,” toward first conversations, toward laughter that sounds more confident. We thank our speech therapists for their patience, kindness, and tireless efforts to ensure that children’s voices can be heard.

Our Child-Friendly Spaces and mobile teams operate within the UNICEF Ukraine project “Strengthening Community Capacities in Delivering Essential Protection and Resilience Services” in Kharkiv, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, implemented by “Responsible Citizens” NGO with the support of the Government of the United States of America.