Horytsvit 5

Adolescence is a difficult time in anyone’s life, a time of first searching for an identity.

War shifts the focus from a strategy of self-discovery, so essential at this stage of development, to a strategy of survival.

Teenagers live under enormous stress, both from outside and from within. The confusion and the urge to hide that participants bring with them to the camp are entirely understandable.

But we know a good antidote: looking at children through the eyes of acceptance.

From the outside, it might seem that nothing special is happening. The whole secret lies within: every mentor, every guide believes in the participants’ potential!

This lays a foundation of curiosity, sincerity, enthusiasm and trust. At Horytsvit, you don’t have to be afraid of seeming ridiculous, foolish, tired, indifferent, chatty or sad. That is what helps participants relax and replenishes their inner resources.

To be a living, imperfect person who is still seen and accepted is a great joy.

Perhaps it was out of these experiences that camp participant Dara’s song “Places of Happy People” was born.