Once, We Were Simply Young People Who Decided to Take Action

In 2014, in Donetsk, a team of young volunteers came together to help people who found themselves in difficult circumstances because of the war. That is how the story of the NGO Responsible Citizens began.

At the time, we did not yet know how far this initiative would take us. But we knew one thing: if you care, you can do something.

Perhaps that is why today we understand so well that young people are not a separate category for whom it is enough to organise a few events a year. Young people need more than safety, humanitarian or psychological support. They also need spaces to connect, opportunities to grow, participate and have a say in decisions that shape their future.

That is why, through our projects, we work to support the psychological and social well-being of young people, create opportunities for non-formal education and skills development, foster social inclusion, and encourage young people’s participation in the life of their communities.

Another important area of our work is advocating for young people’s interests at different levels. It is important to us that young people’s voices are heard, because decisions about Ukraine’s recovery and future must take into account the views of those who will shape that future.

“We want young people to see Ukraine as a place to live, grow and bring their own ideas to life. We want those who left because of the war to want to return, while those who stayed have opportunities to develop here. Because strong communities are, first and foremost, made up of people who see their future in them and are ready to help create it,” says Olha Kosse, Chair of the Board of the NGO Responsible Citizens.

And there is a special symbolism in our story. Once, we came together to help others. Today, that initiative has grown into a large organisation working to ensure that the next generation has not only the support it needs, but also opportunities to grow and bring its own ideas to life.

We wish you never to wait for instructions to change what matters to you. And to always find those who are ready to take action together.

Happy Youth Day!