Kimberly Taylor has served as a Board of Director with Hope For Ukraine since 2024
Just a couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting and volunteering during the third week of the Hope For Ukraine “No Sirens Summer Camp.” I’ve served on the HFU board for several years now; my own family connection to Ukraine initially inspired me to find an organization that was honestly and fearlessly serving people directly on the ground. This time, I had the extra blessing of being joined by my adult daughter, who was eager to meet and connect with the kids.
On the first night, during our opening circle, the children and teenagers were asked to introduce themselves and share what they hoped to experience during their week at camp.
Most of them gave the exact same answer: “I want to sleep.”
What a heartbreakingly simple wish—to sleep through the night without fear. Hearing that answer echo around the circle was a stark reminder of how elusive true rest has become for Ukrainians. Back home, no one can truly relax or take a breath from the relentless, daily toll of war.
For one week, however, that weight lifted. Seeing these kids play on the beach and take part in normal camp activities in absolute safety was nothing short of wonderful. While we didn’t dwell on the tragedies waiting for them back home, we leaned into everything that brings pure joy and laughter. Several of the older girls spoke English and loved practicing with us. We spent hours talking about teenage things: our nails, dresses, the latest movies, and favorite actors. Even though my daughter was more than a decade older than they were, they embraced her instantly, welcoming her into their hearts with open arms.
What struck me most was the sheer determination hidden beneath their smiles. Many of these kids are serious athletes, gymnasts, and martial artists. Several are actually national champions who, under normal circumstances, have to train underground daily just to stay protected from drone attacks. Despite some having lost family members or being orphaned entirely, they refuse to let go of their dreams. Even their coaches—in martial arts and gymnastics—traveled to camp with them so their training didn’t have to miss a beat. I was deeply inspired by their unshakeable focus and extraordinary achievements against the worst possible odds.
Despite everything they have endured, these kids embraced every new sight and experience with a fierce, radiant optimism. We took a day trip to Venice so they could experience the city’s magic. Just like teenagers anywhere in the world, our group loved hunting for the best photo angles, and the historic, beautiful bridges of Venice provided the ultimate backdrop for their laughter.
As the week came to a close, I left with a heart full of gratitude, admiration, and profound hope. These children showed us that even in the darkest circumstances, joy, friendship, and dreams can endure.
The No Siren Summer Camp is just one of the many vital ways Hope For Ukraine serves Ukrainian people, children, and animals displaced and affected by this horrific war. It was an absolute privilege to share this time with them, and I will carry their stories—and that simple, powerful wish for a peaceful night’s sleep—with me for a very long time.