1,541 smiles in 10 days: Jewish volunteers organized a holiday for children of Ukraine that will be remembered for a long time

Volunteers from Jewish organizations brought joy to 1,541 children in 16 cities across Ukraine — this remarkable result became the main outcome of a nationwide initiative dedicated to International Children's Day. The campaign lasted nearly ten days (from June 1 to 10, 2025) and became a vivid example of how Jewish and Ukrainian communities together create a safe future for the most vulnerable. The campaign was reported on June 18, 2025, by the United Jewish Community of Ukraine. Who joined forces for the children - 19 volunteer centers from Jewish organizations; - 49 partners from business, NGOs, and local authorities; - 215 volunteers from the international Volunteer Community network; - 95 hours of continuous work; - 55 events held in 16 cities. 1541 smiles in 10 days: Jewish volunteers gave Ukrainian children a celebration they will never forget. NAnews — Israel News, June 19, 2025 Quotes that inspire Alex Schmidt, Program Director at “JDC” in Ukraine: “The volunteer movement has changed over the past 10 years. Today it’s not just about helping in the moment, but about building strong, growing communities.” Campaign organizers: “Our goal is to show that care from the Jewish community can provide children with a sense of safety even during difficult times.” Why this matters to Israelis of Ukrainian descent NAnews — Israel News emphasizes: since the beginning of putin’s aggression, Jewish organizations in Israel have actively supported Ukrainian families. The success of this June campaign shows how Israel’s volunteer experience can be effectively applied in Ukraine, strengthening trust between the two nations. The Israel–Ukraine connection in action - Israeli NGOs share best practices in child protection during conflict; - Ukrainian Jewish communities adapt these approaches to local realities; - Joint projects form a humanitarian “bridge” between Jerusalem and Kyiv. Volunteer Community: ten years of growth Over the past decade, Volunteer Community has expanded to seven countries, helping tens of thousands in need annually. On June 18, 2025, the United Jewish Community of Ukraine presented a report summarizing the results of this year’s campaign. The key to resilient communities NAnews — Israel News highlights that these kinds of campaigns work not only “in the moment.” They create environments where children learn to trust the world, and adults learn to take responsibility for the future. This kind of response network is familiar to many Israelis of Ukrainian origin. Volunteer conference: next steps - Develop mentorship programs between Israeli and Ukrainian NGOs; - Implement digital tools to help families on the frontlines; - Create educational programs for children's psychological recovery. What’s next 1,541 children received a celebration this year — and this is just the beginning. Closer cooperation between Israel and Ukraine in the field of social volunteering builds a society-wide resilience to humanitarian crises and strengthens both communities. For NAnews readers - Living in Israel and want to help? Join the Volunteer Community partner program through your local Jewish organizations. - Expert and financial support from Israel can expand the projects' reach and help more families. - Your contribution strengthens the alliance between Jewish and Ukrainian peoples with real action — not just words. https://nikk.agency/en/1-541-smiles/