NNLPD team
Were There Volunteers During World War II?
Philanthropy House is an initiative launched in 2024 by the National Network for the Development of Local Philanthropy. Its aim is to research, develop and promote a culture of philanthropy in Ukraine.
Following the start of the full-scale invasion, Ukrainian society has demonstrated an unprecedented level of mutual support. Businesses, civil society organisations and ordinary citizens have pooled their resources to support the army, assist those affected and strengthen communities.
That is precisely why Philanthropy House aims to demonstrate that a culture of mutual support is a natural part of Ukrainian society. We firmly believe that it must not only be preserved, but also systematically developed.
What is philanthropy
Philanthropy is a systematic endeavour aimed at improving the common good and bringing about long-term change by addressing the root causes of problems, usually through the contribution of one’s own resources (time, knowledge, material resources, money, etc.).
The difference between philanthropy and charity can be explained using the example of a fish and a fishing rod. To feed a person, you can give them a fish. This will satisfy their need until they get hungry again. However, if you give a person a fishing rod and teach them how to fish, they will be able to meet their own food needs independently in the long term.
Who is a philanthropist
A philanthropist is a person who voluntarily shares their time, knowledge, skills, material resources or funds for the common good and to bring about long-term positive change in society.
Philanthropy is not measured solely in terms of money. It also involves:
- volunteering
- sharing knowledge and experience
- supporting initiatives in your local community
- helping others
That is precisely why anyone can be a philanthropist. And you too.
What we are researching
As part of the Philanthropy House initiative, the team is conducting a systematic study of the state and development of philanthropy in Ukraine.
We:
- conduct annual researches to gauge awareness of philanthropy within Ukrainian society
- look for and analyse historical examples of Ukrainian philanthropy
- document and record the current state of philanthropy in Ukraine
We previously conducted a study in 2024 ‘Philanthropy, Ukrainian Style: Who Gives, How and Why’, and continued to track dynamics in 2025 in the study ‘Philanthropy, Ukrainian Style 2025: Who, How and Why’
These studies help to better understand the role of philanthropy in community development and the formation of the culture of mutual support.
Also in 2025, the study ‘Partnership Through Borders: How the Diaspora and NGOs Are Shaping New Models of Cooperation’ was conducted. It includes an analysis of the largest waves of migration, other countries’ approaches to working with the diaspora, and provides recommendations on preparing for cooperation with the Ukrainian diaspora.
How we popularise philanthropy
An important part of the initiative is raising awareness of philanthropy and challenging common stereotypes.
We:
- debunk myths and stereotypes about philanthropy
- share real stories of everyday philanthropy
- organise events and discussions on the topic of philanthropy
- run awareness campaigns to raise public awareness
- promote Ukrainian philanthropy internationally
- teach Ukrainians how to help effectively through a free course on ‘Philanthropy in Action: How to Help Effectively’ on the EdEra educational platform
Our aim is to make philanthropy visible, understandable and relatable to everyone.
Contact information
For any enquiries regarding the Philanthropy House initiative, please contact the programme manager:
v.zablotska@philanthropy.com.ua
We are open to collaboration, partnerships and new ideas.
Presentation of the study “Philanthropy in Ukraine: who gives, how and why”
In the study, we focused on the level of public awareness of philanthropy, motivations and barriers to Ukrainians’ participation in good deeds, as well as the resources they most often use for charity
Research Results: “Philanthropy in Ukraine: Who, How, and Why They Give”
The National Network for the Development of Local Philanthropy, together with DataDriven Group, conducted a study on the state of philanthropy in Ukraine, public engagement, motivations, barriers for the population, and the overall perception of philanthropy among Ukrainians. The study involved 1,352 respondents and included three focus groups, each comprising 6–7 participants.
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“MedAid” Special Fund
Support for hospitals, social institutions and assistance to Ukrainian residents with necessary medical equipment
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Ukraine Pooled Fund (UPF)
The Foundation’s goal is to create a sustainable unified funding mechanism that will support local and national organizations through transparent and efficient grant allocation procedures.
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Youth Banks of Initiatives
This is an international model for engaging young people in active participation in the life of their communities, developing leadership skills and civic competencies.
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The Harvest Way: charitable agricultural project in Ukraine
A project to develop and support local vegetable growing, which will contribute to food security and support people in communities.
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School of Community Foundations
A comprehensive annual program for the development and establishment of new community foundations in Ukraine.
