Go to the children’s home

Little money, not much time — but I have strength and motivation. And that’s more than enough to start.

Of course, friends. It's more fun with a group, and together we can do much more. But what if they don't want to go? Then — like-minded people. But where can I find them? In volunteer organizations that organize trips to visit children. It's important to note that visiting a children’s home requires preparation — you need to understand the psychological characteristics of the children and how to communicate with them properly in order not to cause harm. Such volunteer training is provided by the NGO "Team detdom.info". Please fill out the volunteer application form , and we will get in touch with you.

You can choose a children's institution based on your place of residence and available transportation — this can be done through the website. Detdom.info can offer advice on when and where to go, and will share helpful materials and information. Of course, visiting a children's institution — especially for the first time — where orphans and children in difficult circumstances are raised, can stir up deep emotions. But remember: you’re not going there to cry over life’s hardships together. You’re going there to help solve them — together. The emotional impact can be especially strong in infant homes, where children are very small and helpless, and in specialized boarding schools for children with special needs or serious illnesses. That’s why it’s important to be mentally and emotionally prepared for such a trip.

It’s important to remember that, under Ukrainian law, the director of a children’s institution is the legal guardian of all orphans living there and is responsible for them. This may explain why the initial meeting could feel a bit distant or formal — but don’t be discouraged. Also keep in mind that in boarding institutions, 94% of the children have living parents — these are so-called “social orphans,” whose parents either cannot or choose not to fulfill their parental responsibilities. Before your first visit, it’s important to call the director, later arrange a meeting, ask about the institution’s needs, offer your support, and explain the purpose of your visits and your intentions. On your first group visit, it's a good idea to bring small, inexpensive gifts for the children (such as school supplies, books, or diapers for babies). This will help create a positive first impression with the staff. However, never bring expensive gifts — not for the children, and not for the institution — otherwise, you may be seen as a sponsor, both by the administration and the children, and they will expect that from you in the future. Always remember: the goal of these visits is to build real, meaningful connections with the children.

The older the children, the harder it can be to build a connection — but the more they need it. Many of them face challenges that are far from childish. A good way to start earning their trust is through games.

Later on, you can organize viewings of educational or socially themed films followed by group discussions.

Keep in mind: a one-time visit won’t benefit either you or the children. Only consistent and regular interaction can help build trusting relationships.

All volunteers who complete training with the NGO “Team detdom.info” receive detailed activity guides that include games, useful lessons, and other engaging formats for working with children.

This makes planning your visits much easier.
We recommend completing this training at our Training Center.

Try writing an article and posting it on the website or on your social media pages. This can attract the attention of others who care, and as a result, increase the overall impact of your efforts. However, please remember: you must obtain permission from the institution's administration before publishing any public information (photos, stories, names, etc.).