A little bit more information about us

Who we are, our story and our purpose

We are thrilled to share with you the progress and impact of "Viddykh" as we continue our mission to support Ukrainian adolescents during these challenging times. Led by our CEO, Dump Harper, and our dedicated team in Ukraine comprising Country Director Violetta, Digital Development Officer Olia, and Design and Media Officer Yary, we have achieved significant milestones since our inception in April 2023.

It all began during our Bible studies when we recognized the pressing need to address the mental health issues faced by Ukrainian teens amidst the backdrop of conflict. In April 2023, we made the decision to establish "Viddykh" with a vision to provide vital support and resources to these vulnerable adolescents.

From April to August 2023, we diligently worked on shaping the concept, vision, and mission of our organization. This period was crucial as it laid the foundation for our core initiatives, including the development of a journal and the app aimed at aiding the mental well-being of teenagers.

In August 2023, Dump embarked on his first Viddykh trip to Ukraine, marking a significant step in our journey. During this visit, we engaged in fruitful brainstorming sessions, held pivotal meetings, and took the crucial step of selecting a legal company to establish our presence in Ukraine. Additionally, we organized a transformative Teen Event in Kharkiv region (north-east of Ukraine), where we distributed our inaugural journals and provided a supportive environment for 30 teens through activities like journaling, group interactions, and dance therapy. Witnessing the positive impact firsthand, with one teen remarking, "Thank you. It's the best day of my life," reinforced our commitment to our cause.

Another highlight of Dump's hard work was the opportunity to meet Richard G. Tedeschi, the founder of the Boulder Crest Foundation, through our network in Ukraine. This encounter provided invaluable insights and inspiration for our future endeavors.

Our event in Kharkiv, Ukraine

Following, each member of our team immersed themselves in their respective roles. Dump diligently pursued donor meetings, while our on-the-ground team focused on developing our brandbook, enhancing our social media presence, and conducting essential research.

In January 2024, Dump returned for his second Viddykh visit to Ukraine, further solidifying our presence and network. During this trip, we secured an office space and commenced renovations, marking a significant step towards establishing a physical base of operations. Additionally, we welcomed Violetta to our team on a full-time basis, strengthening our leadership in Ukraine.

Furthermore, we are proud to have extended our support to a local project dedicated to building playgrounds for children and teens in Kherson oblast (south of Ukraine). With our assistance, two playgrounds were constructed, providing much-needed recreational spaces for countless young individuals.

As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we are thrilled to announce the addition of Olia and Yary to our team, who were officially employed in March 2024. Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly propel us forward in our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Ukrainian adolescents.

In conclusion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support and belief in our cause. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of Ukrainian teens, offering hope, support, and a brighter future.