After almost a month of the horrible events of the war in Ukraine, we were in “go" mode of trying to raise money to help people in Ukraine and the military. I was contacted by two wonderful ladies from our church, from a different ward, Jennifer and Megan, who offered to host a Youth Talent Fundraiser Show to raise money for Ukrainian relief. Of course, I was IN!
Megan’s house is a great place for gatherings, so we just had to set up chairs, the PA system, recruit the youth and provided the main meal. It was a potluck for the rest of the food.
The event was happening on April 1st, in the evening, and we were extremely fortunate with the weather.
Our little family doing what we can to support our Ukraine.
We had a bunch of setting up to do as well. This is Narine, a foreign exchange student from Ukraine, staying with a family in Cary, and she came as an “honorable” guest as well.
Robert and Mark getting the musical part ready.
Our beautiful friend Natalia was able to join us as well!! We needed all the help we could get as we all represented Ukraine and even sang the Ukrainian national anthem.
Getting ready, decorating the site.
Narine and I. It’s kind of funny but her mom’s name is exactly like my first and middle name!
Nataliya was so helpful, teaching people about Ukraine and running the donation box table.
Everyone had to work quickly and efficiently. This is Jen, not the best picture, but here she is setting things up with her kids.
And here is Megan. We are so grateful for her willingness to help and her kind offer to organize this event!
I had to give a short speech about where our money was going. And it was going to my trusted volunteers on the ground. At this time I was collecting money towards helping people inside the country, especially medical and tactical supplies (Razom) and supporting Fond Masha plus an organization in Kyiv that was helping families with disabled kids who, for various reasons, couldn’t leave the country.
As you can see here, it was a beautiful event! The kids performed and people brought food to share and enjoy each other’s company.
Alex and Ani played a duet, a moving song by Skoryk called “Melodiya”. It was heavenly....
So many talented performers among our youth! It was a joy to listen to.
We had a Venmo code displayed by the donation box to make it easier for people to donate.
Our bake sale raised around $1000 that night! Incredible!
Look how beautiful it was.
I talked to dozens of people that night. Everyone was having a great time (possibly Mark was too:)). We had a turn out of probably 150-200 people. It was incredible!
All in all, we were able to raise a total of $5000! I couldn’t believe it! It was amazing what our group effort of volunteers could accomplish with the support of the community!
The war is far from over... and we can’t give up on supporting our Ukrainian people. Slava Ukrayini!
Lyana.
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