Anton Ksendz is a board member of «Ukrainian Efforts». He uses the experience that he developed in the military to help the organization be more efficient. This volunteer organization is in the United States and has been providing assistance to Ukrainians in their fight against Russia.
What inspired you to become a volunteer and help Ukrainians in the war against Russia? How did the idea of creating your organization come about?
-During the initial days of the war, the international community was hesitant to respond and send aid, which created a gap that exposed Ukrainian to shortages. I didn’t know how to help at first but I knew that I could do something.
How has your experience been working with Ukrainian people, and what have you learned from them?
-Ukrainians have a fighting spirit. I’ve talked to many that think that NATO is at fault for prolonging the war, but they are wrong. Ukrainians would’ve fought with sticks, NATO and the West are just making them more effective and lethal.
What challenges have you faced while volunteering, and how have you overcome them?
-As time progress, we are noticing the fatigue of volunteers and donors. It is difficult to keep the momentum going when everyone is tired. We’ve overcome it by consistently being positive and proactive, making other people care through our persistence and energy.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in becoming a volunteer?
-Everyone has a role and can contribute, regardless of background or skill level. We’ve had opportunities for people to help with physical labor packing boxes, to remote volunteers that we’ve never met face to face donating their data processing skills. I like to think of our organization like any other company that can only be successful with a diversity of people, talent, and ideas.
What do you hope to accomplish through your volunteer work, and what impact do you hope to have on the local community?
-The most rewarding feeling is when I hear that the items we send are making a difference. It is amazing how much hope we can bring to others just by sending items. Several months ago, we received a donation of dental items (drills, swabs, picks, special cotton, and gauze) we debated about sending it because it was heavy. Since shipping cost is determined by weight, it was also very expensive. We ended up shipping it because maybe someone could use it, who knows. Then, after several months go buy, we received a message saying that the recipient was moved to tears when they open up the boxes.
What role do you think volunteers can play in promoting peace and how can people support your efforts?
-Do something, it doesn’t have to be big, doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as selling cookies to raise money, hanging up the Ukrainian flag to remind people that the war is still going on – don’t let people forget.
If you want to contact «Ukrainian Efforts» or assist with donations visit the website below: Ukrainianefforts.org
