We’re launching a series of posts about the journey of the Zakarpattia Regional Charitable Foundation “Blago” — an organization that has become a beacon of hope for the Roma community and internally displaced persons.
⠀We begin by introducing its founder — Eleonora Kulchar.
A delicate woman, Roma by nationality, with a big heart and unwavering belief in justice.
In a world where women from the Roma community often struggled to be heard, she forged a path against all odds and stereotypes.
“I walked like a blind kitten,” she recalls. “But I couldn’t stop.”
⠀In 2003, she founded the “Blago” Foundation.
And in 2014, she launched a preschool preparation program for Roma children — the very ones often overlooked by the system. And it worked: the children were inspired to learn, and many now receive good grades in Ukrainian schools.
“Roma children are little diamonds. They just need attention and the right approach,” Eleonora believes.
⠀In addition to her work at the foundation, Eleonora Ivanivna is also the national coordinator of the REYN Ukraine network — an organization that, since 2018, has been working on early childhood development for Roma children and supporting Roma women across different regions of the country.
⠀But she doesn’t stop there.
Her dream is to create a large social and development center in Uzhhorod: a place where everyone can receive support, grow, and find new opportunities.
“We want to expand our work to help even more people,” she says.
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Today, the “Blago” Foundation is more than just an organization.
It is a symbol of resilience, faith, and love for one’s people.
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And Eleonora Kulchar is a living example of how one person, driven by a calling in their heart, can change the lives of thousands.
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This is only the first story in a series.
Follow along to learn more about the journey of Roma organizations in Ukraine.