Around the world, physical activity has become one of the most powerful tools for veteran recovery. In the United States, the Warrior Games have inspired thousands of rehabilitation programs. In the United Kingdom, the Invictus Games reshaped how society perceives wounded service members. In Canada, the Netherlands, and Australia, these experiences formed the foundation for national “recovery through sport” systems — combining rehabilitation, mentorship, and inclusion.

Now, it’s Ukraine’s turn. That’s why the CBA Initiatives Center, together with the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine and supported by Ukrgasbank, created HART — a comprehensive approach to veteran recovery through sport. It’s also the beginning of a new tradition — one built on gratitude and dignity.

“In Ukrainian, the word ‘hart’ means the process of hardening — when metal passes through fire and pressure to become stronger. That is exactly the essence of this project: the strength that emerges after trials,” — says Ihor Krytsak, senior specialist at the Veterans Department of the CBA Initiatives Center.

Throughout the week, participants will compete in nine adaptive sports, including:

Team sports: wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, and sitting volleyball. Individual sports: archery, indoor rowing, laser-run, powerlifting, cycling, and swimming.

Participation in HART is free of charge. Organizers will cover accommodation, meals, and logistics for all participants who complete registration and submit the required documents on time.

Below are photos from previous adaptive sports events organized by the Come Back Alive Center for Initiatives.

“After an injury, there comes a moment of uncertainty. What’s next? How do I live, work, or feel life’s fullness again? The more severe the injury, the deeper that uncertainty.

Everyday tasks can feel like overcoming obstacles. Things you once did instinctively now make you break a sweat — not to mention the psychological state, which is often even harder to manage.

Adaptive sports are a great tool for both physical and mental health. Your age, fitness level, or physical limitations don’t matter.

Many veterans today truly need such activities. When you’re surrounded by people who’ve been through the same as you, it’s like stepping into another world — one where your problems no longer seem insurmountable. You see people who’ve endured the worst doing what even fully able-bodied people sometimes can’t — and doing it with a smile. That’s inspiring,” — says Stanislav Koval’kov, a participant of previous adaptive sports competitions organized by the Come Back Alive Center for Initiatives. Stanislav competed in wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and wheelchair rugby.

Each year, HART will leave a lasting legacy — improved infrastructure, trained professionals, veteran communities, and, most importantly, new meaning for those who’ve already given so much. Because when veterans recover — the nation recovers with them.