Andrew Loftesnes is an international volunteer who has provided humanitarian assistance and volunteered in Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. When he met the SII team, the volunteer decided to help us realise non-formal education for IDP children. Andrew has found funds to buy sewing machines, on which children will learn to sew. We talked to him to tell you about his activities.
- When did you decide you want to volunteer in Ukraine?
Shortly after the start of the full-scale invasion. I had never been to Ukraine and had no knowledge of the language. But I couldn’t just stay at home, I had to figure out a way to help. I quit my job, gathered donations of medical supplies, flew to Poland, and crossed the border. I was nervous, but it was the right thing to do.
- Tell us about your volunteering and humanitarian aid in Ukraine.
We integrated ourselves with Ukrainian groups and our work focused mainly on the production and delivery of food and medical supplies to help displaced and vulnerable populations. I am very proud that we were there side-by-side with Ukrainians every day.
- What were the goals and objectives of your volunteer activities in Ukraine?
My personal goal was just to be busy everyday helping Ukrainians. I wanted to do this with my own hands, and I didn’t want to waste time. After integrating with local volunteer groups, the best way to help became clear; enable and expand local operations. For example – get to know a Ukrainian group, identify their operational needs, then try to get them money, people, or supplies.
- What challenges and obstacles did you encounter while volunteering, and how did you overcome them?
I believe many in the West would be shocked at the true need for help. Feeding a displaced population for example, is a massive undertaking and that is only one problem which must be addressed. Our biggest obstacle was resources, and so we fundraised but as a normal person this is difficult. I know only grows worse as the war goes on, and it kills me that I can’t do more on my own.
- Can you share a story that particularly moved or inspired you while working in Ukraine?
There are many examples I could give, but here are two. I was incredibly inspired to realize that many of the Ukrainians we were volunteering with had been displaced and suffered terrible things, but here they were helping and resisting. It was incredible to witness. Many people would not have shown their strength.
Also, when speaking with wounded Ukrainian soldiers, many of them told us they just wanted to get back with their friends and fight. Also, when speaking with wounded Ukrainian soldiers, many of them told us they just wanted to get back with their friends and fight. They have the same spirit.
- How did volunteering in Ukraine affect you?
When I got home from Ukraine, I wrote a list of personal lessons which I learned. I’ll share one with you. I truly believe that we have a responsibility to be involved in the world and to help people, and I mean that in a very serious way. We are all able to do this in differently and with different strengths, but the only thing that matters is that you act. I am constantly asking myself how I can best apply this in my life.
- Was there a need to interact with other volunteers or organizations during your volunteering? Are connections and cooperation with Ukrainian organizations or volunteers maintained now?
Absolutely. There is an interesting community of international volunteers and I met many amazing people. Some characters as well. I still keep in touch with many of them, including Ukrainian friends and groups to help with projects.
- How did you get to know the Society Initiatives Institute?
It’s an interesting story. Before I left the USA, I drove to Saint Andrew’s Ukrainian Orthodox church in Maryland, close to where I live in Washington DC. As I walk into the church, they are mobilizing to collect supplies. This was in the early days of course. I tell them that I am going to Ukraine, and offer to transport supplies for them. They give me a number of bags and put me in touch with Taras Repytskyi.
From there, Taras showed me the work Society Initiatives Institute was up to. I was impressed by the long-term focus and seriousness of the projects. We must address immediate needs such as food, medicine and shelter, but there is also a great need to restore dignity and agency to people’s lives. I saw SII doing both. That’s when I decided to help with the sewing machine initiative.
- What personal changes have you experienced while working as a volunteer in Ukrainian society?
There are many ways that I could answer this question. But after seeing the direct impact of NGOs and regular people mobilizing to take action, I’m now considering a full-time professional move into the humanitarian field.
- How do you see the future of your volunteer activities in Ukraine or in other countries?
I am interested in returning to Ukraine to continue helping. Of course, the prayer is that before I am able to, there will no longer be a need. Unfortunately, there is always a need somewhere in the world. I’m seriously asking myself how I can help professionally around the world.
- What motivates you to volunteer?
We cannot turn our eyes to injustice happening in the world just because it may not impact us directly, or because it is occurring far away on a map. Even if you do not see it, the human suffering is real. We have a duty to help those in need no matter who or where they are. I firmly believe this. We have a duty to help those in need no matter who or where they are. I firmly believe this.
- What would you advise young Ukrainian volunteers?
What would you advise young Ukrainian volunteers? You are inspiring the world. Ukraine will win.
