REBUILD UKRAINE: A Story of Fierce Determination & Strategic Support

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In this episode, Paul Gavrilyuk, president of REBUILD UKRAINE tells how the constant bombardment of Ukraine's cities, and civilian infrastructure does not stop their network of volunteers, businesses, and social media to get medical supplies, protective gear and humanitarian aid into war-torn Ukraine.

With touch points in Lithuania, their quick response, front-line work is saving thousands of older adults, families, orphans, and the sick. They have make-shift schools for refugee children in Montenegro, Lithuania and Ukraine.

Paul sums up the spirit of this work: “the determination is there and no bombing, no tragic and horrific criminal bombing of the cities is gonna stop that determination.”

Paul L. Gavrilyuk, PhD is the Aquinas Chair in Theology and Philosophy at the University of St Thomas, St Paul, MN. An internationally respected public speaker, he has five years of experience in the non-profit sphere and is the founding president of the International Orthodox Theological Association.

QUOTE HIGHLIGHTS

PAUL: “The reason we created the organization is precisely because we could help within the country...Most of the people that are affiliated with us...have businesses of their own, and at the same time they're volunteers. So they think about what we do really as one would run a very good small business. Only the outcome is not profit, but actually, a life saved.”

PAUL: "And I've made a moral choice. And it just had to do with the fact that I simply did not have the luxury of just...sitting and doing little or nothing."

PAUL: "...it is a story of Ukraine. And the real heroes, of course, are the ones who are presently willing to ultimately sacrifice their lives...for Ukraine's sovereignty, for its future, for its independence, I mean... it's the American Revolution type of moment for Ukraine. Yeah... it's also defending really core values like...human dignity and freedom."

PAT:  "I was thinking about the way Ukraine has captured the hearts and imaginations of people. And...maybe it's because the world is media weary of bullies, thugs, and grifters not having consequences for their actions. And Ukraine looms large in our collective imagination as the proverbial David stopping the giant Goliath."

LINKS

REBUILD UKRAINE  Paul L. Gavrilyuk, PhD Udemy Course: Ukraine: History, Culture and identities

Today's episode is brought to you by the Joan of Arc Scroll Medal, a beautiful brass alloy medal, designed by award-winning artist, Pat Benincasa. This uniquely shaped medal is ideal for holiday or as a special occasion gift!    Visit www.patbenincasa-art.com

Please Note: The views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcaster.

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