What is Aikido for Ukraine?

It is a project of the official NGO Aikido Academy Aikido Akademia ↗ recognized by the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic. From the very beginning the project was built on the effort of volunteers, who showed solidarity and a will to help (“from people for people”). The project is unique with its precise targeting and effectiveness. The help is direct and transparent.

What is the goal of the project?

We look at the goals as: strategic, tactical and operational; long term, middle term and short term; primary, secondary and a tertiary way to fulfill the given task. The project has two phases.

1^st Phase: In the first phases we gain information from dojos in Ukraine about their needs and then we create a list of dojos (Applicants). Then we share this with potential donors around the world.

2^nd Phase: In the second phase we network. We want to pair dojos in Ukraine with dojos or aikido organizations outside of Ukraine. In so doing, we aim to build bridges, provide a mentoring system, and forge strong bonds between the matched parties that last well beyond the current needs.

Goals:

• To start the healing process for the current and next generations in Ukraine
• To use aikido as a tool for recovery
• To create opportunities for kids to recover
• To help surviving aikido dojos stay active and to aid dojos that have been forced to close to renew their practise
• To support instructors who leads classes for kids

What we do?

We gather requests from Ukrainian dojos (see the Application form →). Once an application is received, we evaluate the needs of each dojo in terms of what they require to. In particular, we consider what stay active.

What are the differences compared to other similar projects?

We focus on aikido clubs, aikido kids and their families, and using aikido as a tool for recovery.

Why should you donate?

We deeply appreciate all the support, financial or otherwise, that donors and you are able to give. We know how best to use this support, in terms of where it is needed,, and who needs it and how to deliver support in the most effective way. By working together, we know we can forge a different future for both donors and the recipients of your gifts.

How can I help?

• donate,
• attend or support Aikido for Ukraine events
• organize fundraising seminars,
• share and promote the project.

Where the donated money go?

Generally:

• primarily to kids,
• to kids classes
• to instructor who works with kids

In particular, we support two different programs:

• 45% Children Recovery Program
• 45% Support the Ukrainian clubs in Ukraine
• 10% Keep the project running

The project is transparent. On our webpage we display all money received and list the donors. We protect the recipients because many of them are located in occupied areas.

Who can apply for help?

Any Ukrainian aikido dojo can apply for support. It does not matter what association the club is affiliated to or if it operates independently.