Kharkiv Association of Community Initiatives Support (ASSA)

The Kharkiv NGO Association of Community Initiatives Support “ASSA” empowers women, children, and youth through education, civic engagement, and community-building. In light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, ASSA has adapted its projects to meet the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs), providing psychological support, creative art therapy, and integrating displaced individuals into socio-cultural and public life through collaborative activities with local communities.

The Giving Joy grant will support war-affected women in Kharkiv by providing skills training and connecting them with job opportunities. Starting in February 2025, ASSA will conduct a citywide survey to assess women’s career interests and create a database of local companies, especially small businesses needing temporary employees. Master classes will help women explore various professions, including traditionally male-dominated fields like IT testing, auto mechanics, and information security. Additional training in tools like Canva, Google programs, AI, and financial literacy will also be offered, along with individual counseling and career advice.

This initiative will empower women by enhancing their skills, boosting economic security, and addressing local workforce needs. It will improve mental well-being, help women escape poverty, and facilitate their integration into host communities, promoting social cohesion. The project will serve as a model for other communities, expanding ASSA’s impact and attracting new partnerships.

Around 30 women will directly benefit, with an additional 15 participating in training. Indirect beneficiaries will include their families and the broader community. The project will also drive economic growth by equipping women with skills that contribute to Kharkiv's development.