In the wake of the Russian military invasion in Ukraine in 2014, a remarkable partnership was forged between the legendary Ukrainian scientist, Borys Paton, and the renowned American photo artist, Sergey Melnikoff. Together, they founded the International Charitable Foundation “Soul of Ukraine,” with the noble mission of promoting Ukrainian culture and creating a positive image of Ukraine in the international community. However, the foundation’s path took an unexpected turn when the devastating Russian attack on Ukraine unfolded. Undeterred by the destruction of their office and driven by a deep desire to bring goodness to those in need, the foundation set its sights on a new and worthy goal: establishing the International Rehabilitation Center for Ukrainian children disabled by war. This essay traces the remarkable journey of the foundation and its tireless efforts to create the Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center in Albania.

In 2014, Borys Paton and Sergey Melnikoff joined forces to establish the International Charitable Foundation “Soul of Ukraine.” Their vision was bolstered by the support of prominent figures in Ukrainian culture, all esteemed recipients of the highest state award, the “Hero of Ukraine.” The Patriarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Filaret became the spiritual patron of the foundation. The foundation quickly gained recognition as a beacon of hope, with its volunteers dedicating themselves to promoting cultural projects that showcased the best of Ukraine to the world.

The year 2022 marked a tragic turning point when Russian troops launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Lives were lost, families shattered, and countless children faced unimaginable challenges. In the face of this tragedy, Sergey Melnikoff, the sole remaining founder, along with the dedicated members of the foundation, resolved to establish a rehabilitation center to support Ukrainian children with disabilities caused by the Russian attack.

Inspired by the selfless work of the revered Albanian woman, Mother Teresa, the decision was made to name the center in her honor. Sergey Melnikoff, a recipient of numerous Ukrainian awards for his creative contributions, reached out to President Volodymyr Zelensky, requesting support from the Ukrainian Ambassador to Albania. Their aim was to secure the necessary assistance from the Albanian Cabinet of Ministers, including the provision of land for the Rehabilitation Center.

The foundation’s endeavor received a significant boost when professionals from an IT company in Mariupol joined the cause. Despite the harrowing circumstances they faced during the Russian bombing of their city, ten resilient individuals from the company relocated to the frontline city of Odessa and established the “Recklama” company. Leveraging their expertise, they developed a range of modern interactive resources, including a website for a charity auction, which played a vital role in the foundation’s fundraising efforts.

Currently, the International Rehabilitation Center named after Mother Teresa in Albania for Ukrainian children disabled by war is in the registration stage. The Soul of Ukraine Foundation, Inc. has obtained a special license from the American authorities, granting them the ability to accept donations specifically for financing the Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center.

In a poignant appeal to future donors, the foundation emphasizes that true humanity transcends mere financial success. It urges individuals to embrace compassion and spread goodness throughout the world.

The establishment of the Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center stands as a testament to the resilience and unwavering commitment of the Soul of Ukraine Foundation. Through their collective efforts and determination, they have transformed devastation into hope and tragedy into opportunity. The center’s vision of providing support, care, and rehabilitation to Ukrainian children disabled by war will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. As the journey continues, the foundation remains dedicated to its mission, fueled by the belief that compassion and kindness can truly change lives and heal wounds, even in the face of adversity. The Soul of Ukraine Foundation, Inc., and its dedicated volunteers have demonstrated that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can rise above and create something remarkable.

The Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center represents not only a physical space for healing and support but also a symbol of unity, collaboration, and compassion. It is a testament to the power of international cooperation, as individuals from Ukraine, the United States, and Albania have come together to make a difference in the lives of Ukrainian children affected by the horrors of war.

As the International Rehabilitation Center moves forward in its registration stage, it is poised to become a beacon of hope for countless children and their families. Through specialized programs, and care, the center will provide these children with the tools they need to overcome their disabilities, reclaim their lives, and build a brighter future.

The journey of the Soul of Ukraine Foundation and the establishment of the Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center serve as a reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, there is always room for compassion and goodness. It is a call to action for individuals around the world to support and uplift those in need, to spread kindness, and to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

In a world often plagued by strife and division, the story of the Soul of Ukraine Foundation and the Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together for a common purpose. It shows us that no matter how daunting the obstacles may be, the human spirit can triumph and create a better tomorrow.

So, to all future donors and supporters, we urge you to join us on this journey of hope. Your contributions, whether big or small, have the power to transform lives and make a lasting difference. Together, let us embrace the values of compassion, empathy, and generosity, and together, let us continue to spread goodness in the world.