Rejuvenating Recreation: Veterans and People with Disabilities Gather at "Perlyna"

Events

Rejuvenating Recreation: Veterans and People with Disabilities Gather at "Perlyna"

Rejuvenating Recreation: Veterans and People with Disabilities Gather at "Perlyna" Socializing, making new acquaintances, and the thrill of sport - this is how the gathering of veterans and people with disabilities (along with their families) unfolded at the "Perlyna" pond in Pidhorodne, Dnipropetrovsk region. Participants tried their hand at competitive fishing and archery. For some, it was a new experience; for others, a chance to return to a favorite pastime. Yet, the most important aspects of the day were the personal connections, the support, and an atmosphere where everyone could feel comfortable and simply be themselves. Our team took part in the event, notably Mykola Nadulichnyi - head of the "Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities," ambassador of the "Movement Without Barriers" project, and an expert on the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine. Such gatherings are far more than just leisure activities. They offer veterans and people with disabilities the chance to stay active, meet like-minded people, experience new emotions, and feel part of a community. It is especially important that active recreation can - and should be accessible to everyone. The examples set by the participants at this event prove once again that barriers should not define a person's potential. We extend our thanks to the organizers, partners, volunteers, and everyone who helped make this day happen. We continue to support initiatives that bring people together and help them return to an active life. For true barrier-free living is not just about accessible spaces; it is about the opportunity to live, socialize, relax, and pursue what brings you joy—on an equal footing with others.

07.10.2026

LAOOI Team Strengthens Practical Protection Skills

LAOOI Team Strengthens Practical Protection Skills The team from the "Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities" (LAOOI) participated in a two-day practical training session on Protection Case Management. The training took place as part of the SAFE-PATH project and focused primarily on practical application—working with real and realistic case scenarios, making decisions, and identifying the safest and most effective ways to support individuals. Over the course of two days, participants examined the key stages of case management in detail: from risk assessment and action planning to referrals for necessary services, documentation, supervision, and case closure. Special attention was paid to handling complex cases, incorporating psychological support into case management, and gaining practical experience with the Primero system. For our team, such training sessions offer a vital opportunity to refine the approaches we use daily when working with vulnerable groups. After all, behind every case lies a real person with specific circumstances and needs; therefore, our solutions must be professional, safe, and person-centered. We extend our thanks to our partners—IRC Deutschland and the NGO "Community Development Fund"—as well as trainer Valentyna Zaliievska, for the practical and insightful training, the exchange of experience, and our collaborative efforts. The project "Inclusive Accommodation and Protection for Vulnerable IDPs in Kharkiv Oblast" is implemented by a consortium comprising the NGO "Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities," the NGO "Community Development Fund," and the International Rescue Committee (IRC), with support from Sweden provided through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Photo: Community Development Fund #go2frg

06.10.2026

Barrier-free accessibility is tested in motion, not just on paper

Can a person in a wheelchair enter the building independently? Is there enough room to maneuver inside? Is the restroom convenient to use? Is the route safe for someone with a prosthesis? This is precisely how the accessibility of the Transit Center in Voloske village (Dnipro district, Dnipropetrovsk region) was tested—in practice. The inspection involved Mykola Nadulichnyi, Head of the "Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities," an ambassador for the "Movement Without Barriers" project and an expert on the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine. Together with other participants, Mykola Nadulichnyi did more than just look at the premises; they traversed the center’s main routes exactly as various people would on a daily basis. They checked entrances and exits, the width of passageways and doorways, movement routes, ramps, sanitary facilities, and signage. They evaluated the space specifically from the perspectives of a wheelchair user and a person using a prosthesis. After all, details like measurements, slopes, thresholds, or poorly placed equipment—which some might not even notice—can become real obstacles for others. There was also a discussion about communication accessibility: how center staff can properly interact with people with disabilities, and how to provide clear information and assistance without undermining a person's independence. All identified barriers were documented on-site, and potential solutions were discussed. Based on the inspection, recommendations were developed to further improve the accessibility of the Transit Center. For us, a barrier-free environment is a space that a person can truly use—independently, safely, and with dignity. That is why accessibility requires more than just planning; it must be verified in practice.

02.10.2026