Teenage space in war conditions. 3

Ukrainian teenagers today are growing up in the terrifying conditions of war. They are forced to balance their studies, hormonal changes, and chronic stress. Air-raid sirens, separation from loved ones, forced displacement, and information overload are destroying their emotional resilience.

We see the toll this takes on young people: withdrawal, loss of interest, occasional aggressive behavior, or, conversely, apathy. School psychologists are often overburdened, and parents, themselves in a state of constant stress, cannot always provide the right support. As a result, teenagers are too often left alone with their thoughts, which can lead to panic attacks, depression, and social isolation.

Our safe offline space for teenagers is an alternative, a counterbalance to the anxious outside world. It is not a club or a lecture, but a place where they can truly recharge.

We offer teenagers: live communication through board games, film screenings with follow-up discussions, shared tea time, a space for creative expression, and more. Our space operates on an "open door" principle – you can come in with any mood, and you will not be judged; instead, you will be met with understanding.

We are already seeing positive results: teenagers' emotional states are improving, feelings of social isolation among young people in our community are decreasing, and teenagers are gaining tools for self-regulation in stressful situations.

With your support, we plan to: cover the salary of a youth worker (psychologist), purchase tea, coffee, and sweets for our tea gatherings, pay for internet access, and cover the rent for the premises. Support our fundraiser today! Together, we can protect our children's childhood during these darkest of days.

Thank you for being with us!