The CBA Initiatives Center organized a series of adaptive sports workshops in Lviv, Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, Ivano-Frankivsk, Sataniv, and Ternopil, with a total of 350 participants.

The events focused on veterans’ recovery and the role of adaptive sports in this process. They were part of the “Our People Here” project, through which the CBA Initiatives Center researches and maps recovery environments while promoting rehabilitation—particularly adaptive sports—in Ukraine.

Over the course of three hours, participants learned how to develop adaptive sports programs in their communities. The program included practical activities such as Olympic archery, boccia, and wheelchair basketball. The main speaker at almost all workshops was Taras Kovalyk, a veteran who became disabled as a result of the war and now leads the veterans’ department at the CBA Initiatives Center.

“We organize these workshops because we sincerely believe that information and personal experience can help veterans recover faster. For me, developing adaptive sports in Ukraine is a personal mission. It is crucial to create conditions where people do not face their limitations but instead feel strength and capability. Adaptive sports provide a sense of dignity and open up new opportunities,” says Taras Kovalyk. The events served not only as a platform for learning about adaptive sports but also as a space for support and connection.

Oleksandr, a veteran from Kyiv, shared:

“This event is more than a workshop — it’s a chance to see old friends, meet new people, try different activities, and ask questions I previously didn’t dare to. And the bonus? A sea of smiles and hugs.”

Anzhela from Ivano-Frankivsk, the partner of a serviceman, added:

“I want to sincerely thank everyone organizing activities and support for our military. For those who have endured pain, injuries, and loss, every such meeting is healing. And for families like ours, it’s an opportunity to see a loved one’s smile again.”

These workshops once again demonstrated that adaptive sports are not only about physical exercise—they are about new meanings, recovery, and, most importantly, the power of community.