Volunteer Conference 2023
We hurry to tell you a little more about the Volunteer Conference — and there is certainly a lot to share
From November 23–26, the largest volunteer conference dedicated to the personal and professional development of volunteers took place in Truskavets, organized by JDC. It was attended by 660 participants from four countries and 33 cities across Ukraine, Moldova, and Israel. All of them are volunteers of the FSU Volunteer Community network.
An educational program was organized for participants — it consisted of 144 educational, creative, sports, intellectual, and other activities. More than 100 speakers and lecturers shared their knowledge to enhance personal, professional, and volunteer skills on a voluntary basis.
Professional training was held for volunteer teams from 6 cities — participants worked on improving teamwork, communication, and interaction with one another. The training was led by a guest trainer from Israel, Neil Mercer. As a result, participants discovered new opportunities and roles and learned how to interact effectively in various crisis situations.
Partner organizations and foundations were also invited, including Zgraya, the Masha Foundation, Everyone Can, the Treasure of Hope Charitable Foundation, JUSI, Juice and PJ Library in Ukraine.
With the support of a psychologist from the Masha Foundation, conference participants learned how to provide themselves with first psychological aid and worked through stress reactions. Charity drives by Zgraya collected 400 pairs of knitted socks and nearly 200 books for a charitable auction to support Ukraine’s defenders.
Throughout the conference, PJ Library representatives provided consultations on partnership opportunities and the donation of Jewish children's literature to community families. Volunteers could learn about the activities and projects of other foundations cooperating with the Volunteer Community Ukr network and join their initiatives. At the project fair, 24 successful volunteer center projects were presented.
These four days became unforgettable for every participant — the energy of good deeds, talent show performances, a festive concert, the atmosphere of Shabbat and Havdalah, an immense amount of new knowledge and skills, smiles, and warm embraces. Inspired and energized for new achievements, all volunteers returned home ready to continue doing good with renewed strength.
The event organizers express their deep gratitude to everyone who took part in the conference, shared their knowledge and incredible energy, multiplied the common good and strengthened faith in a better future.
Together we can do anything!