Ukraine Launches Mentorship Program for Teens in Institutional Care: How to Get Involved

Campaign Launch: 'Mentorship: Your Experience in Action'

According to Міністерство соц. політики: The Ministry of Social Policy, Family, and Unity of Ukraine has unveiled a new communications campaign titled 'Mentorship: Your Experience in Action.' This initiative is part of a state-run mentorship program designed for teenagers living in institutional care facilities. The campaign aims to support children and youth who have experienced alternative forms of care, helping them transition to independent life. Mentorship programs are recognized globally as a vital tool for improving outcomes for youth leaving care.

International Partnership and Support

The 'Mentorship: Your Experience in Action' campaign is a component of a larger project implemented in partnership with UNICEF. This project receives crucial financial backing from several key international donors, including:

• The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), which provides funds through the state development bank KfW.
• The European Union.
• The Government of Sweden.

Key Ukrainian organizations are actively involved in executing the campaign:

• The Coordination Center for the Development of Family Upbringing and Child Care,
• The Office for Children and Youth 'DIYMO',
• The Public Association 'Ukrainian Network for Children's Rights'.

These groups will collaborate to implement the program, which seeks to connect teenagers with mentors and provide them with essential guidance and support.

This campaign represents a significant step in bolstering social support for adolescents, who often face considerable challenges when adapting to life outside institutional settings. It underscores the critical role of mentorship in youth development and in equipping young people with the resources needed for successful societal integration. The involvement of major international partners highlights the growing global attention on child welfare issues within Ukraine.

In addition to mentorship opportunities, the Ukrainian government is also taking steps to support youth facing various challenges. A recent initiative offers financial assistance to young individuals returning from deportation, providing them with essential resources to reintegrate into society. This program not only aids in their recovery but also complements the mentorship efforts aimed at fostering resilience among adolescents. For more details on this financial support, you can read about the financial aid for youth returning from deportation.