Five Ukrainian teenagers find solace and new experiences in Indian Valley while also offering local students a perspective on trauma and resilience
Five Ukrainian teenagers have spent four months in Indian Valley, living with local families and attending the Indian Valley Academy (IVA) in Greenville. The teenagers, aged 13 to 16, fled the ongoing war in Ukraine and were welcomed by the community to escape the harsh realities of war and experience a brief respite in a peaceful environment. The children, including Nik, Victoria, Olesia, Anna, and Sofiia, engaged in regular teenage activities like basketball, volleyball, and art, activities they had not been able to enjoy due to the ongoing conflict at home, reported plumassun.org.
A Transformative Experience for Both the Students and Host Families
This initiative, part of the To Ukraine With Love program, was driven by the efforts of Brett Cook, a local attorney, and Sue Weber, the IVA founder. The program aimed not only to give Ukrainian youth an opportunity to heal but also to allow the local community, still recovering from the 2021 Dixie Fire, to gain insight into the trauma faced by others. Both groups of young people shared a deep understanding of loss and resilience, which led to profound connections and healing for all involved.
The students quickly adapted to American life, learning to speak better English and enjoying experiences like Winter Prom and cutting a Christmas tree in the mountains. Despite the language barrier, they expressed their gratitude for the kindness and support of their host families and the local community.
As the students prepared to return to Ukraine, Weber praised their growth and courage. “You are going back stronger,” she told them. “Despite the challenges you still had this incredible strength to keep moving forward.”
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