On October 1, Ukraine celebrates Defenders’ Day. This day provides an opportunity to express sincere gratitude to the military personnel who defend Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as to honor the memory of those who gave their lives for our country’s freedom.
As part of the commemoration of this significant date, the hubs have organized informational and educational sessions, themed meetings, patriotic discussions, exhibitions, creative workshops, and acts of gratitude.
Such events are an important component of patriotic education, strengthening unity, and fostering a culture of remembrance, as well as an opportunity to express sincere gratitude to each and every person who is defending Ukraine today.
Patriotic education events and informational sessions were held under the themes “We Are the Little Defenders of a Great Country,” “Proud of Our Heroes: Knights of Our Time,” “The Strength and Courage of the Ukrainian Warrior,” “We Know! We Remember! We Honor!”, “Under the Protection of the Intercession,” “Heroes of Our Nation,” “Defenders of Our Homeland,” “Their Feat Lives in the Hearts of the People,” and “From a Little Heart—Great Gratitude.” During these sessions, attendees learned about the history of the Cossack lineage and the indomitable spirit of Ukrainians throughout various periods of history. Children participated in interactive contests and practiced willpower and determination.
Event participants learned about stories of courage and heroism from Ukrainian defenders, discussed the importance of civic responsibility and everyone’s contribution to bringing Victory closer, and musical and poetic performances created a special atmosphere at the events.
The exciting quests “Descendants of Cossack Glory,” “Long Live Cossack Glory—Long Live the Cossack Spirit,” “In the Footsteps of Heroes,” and “Cossack Fun” were filled with interesting games, quizzes, and crossword puzzles, bringing joy, smiles, and high spirits to the participants.
During the national-patriotic lectures held in honor of Ukraine’s defenders, the importance of their courage and sacrifice for each of us was emphasized.
A variety of workshops were held, including “Hearts of Gratitude,” “Thank You for Your Protection,” “A Gift for a Hero,” “A Talisman for a Defender,” “Hearts for the Brave,” “A Postcard of Gratitude,” and “Red Poppies”—involved creating postcards, bracelets, hearts, and posters, which serve as small symbols of gratitude and support. Each piece embodies the warmth of the soul and sincere wishes for peace, goodness, and victory.
Children, adults, and families of military personnel participated in the sports and patriotic events held to mark the holiday (archery, darts, bombasket, soccer penalty kicks, and kettlebell lifting).
Screenings of historical documentaries introduced attendees to the brave Cossacks and war veterans—examples of courage, resilience, dignity, and patriotism.
Meetings with male and female defenders were organized at humanitarian hubs and centers, where they were thanked for their bravery, courage, and patriotism, and presented with gifts. During these heartfelt gatherings with the families of the defenders, the memory of fallen soldiers was honored, and sincere conversations took place; guests received support, legal advice, and food packages.
Representatives of the hubs and centers, together with residents of the Donetsk region, also took part in memorial rallies, joined in laying flowers at memorials and sites honoring soldiers, and observed a moment of silence to honor the memory of the fallen defenders, remembering everyone who gave their lives for Ukraine’s independence, freedom, and future.
Residents of Donetsk Oblast joined the regional campaign “Thank You from the Heart,” and presented our heroes with handmade amulets as a token of warmth and gratitude.
The humanitarian hubs in Donetsk Oblast remain not only places to receive necessary aid, but also spaces for unity, support, and the preservation of national memory.
Glory to all our heroes! Glory to the defenders of Ukraine!