MTÜ «Ukrainians in Haapsalu»

MTÜ Ukrainians in Haapsalu is an official non-governmental organisation (NGO) founded in November 2022 in Haapsalu (Läänemaa, Estonia). Initially started as a grassroots volunteer initiative to support Ukrainian refugees, the organisation has successfully evolved into a vital regional hub for social integration, crisis mental health, community empowerment, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Key Activities & Expertise:

- Social Integration & Cultural Exchange: Facilitating deep integration into Estonian society through direct cooperation with local municipalities, schools, and cultural institutions (e.g., museums, local events), while firmly preserving Ukrainian national identity.

- Mental Health & Family Support: Running comprehensive crisis psychological relief programs, group therapy, and specialized stress-management techniques (such as coherent breathing practices) led by a professional crisis psychologist for displaced women and the elderly.

- Humanitarian & Community Aid: Coordinating direct humanitarian assistance, supply chains, and vehicle logistics in partnership with international funds (e.g., "I Am Ukraine"). Hosting a cultural corner at the Rannarootsi Museum dedicated to volunteer initiatives like weaving camouflage nets.

- Vulnerable Group Empowerment: Organizing specialized integration and creative workshops for children with disabilities, isolated elderly refugees, and women facing socio-economic barriers.

International & Project Experience:

The organisation possesses a high level of administrative capability and financial accountability, having successfully implemented a joint integration initiative as an official member of the United Nations (UN) NGO network. Furthermore, MTÜ Ukrainians in Haapsalu has a fully completed project proposal developed under the Active Citizens Fund framework (EEA and Norway Grants) targeting regional resilience and information hygiene.

Partnership Interests:

We are actively seeking bilateral cooperation with experienced NGOs from Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein under the EEA and Norway Grants framework. We are open to institutional experience exchange, joint advocacy programs for regional refugee communities, and developing cross-border social initiatives.