“Children of Heroes” Co-Founder Valeriia Abdal on “Archetype of the Nation” Podcast: Discussing the War, Inspiration, and Helping Children Who Have Lost Parents
A new episode of the “Archetype of the Nation” podcast recently aired on the “Charivnyi Svit TV” YouTube channel, featuring journalist Nick Lysytskyi in conversation with Valeriia Abdal, co-founder of the “Children of Heroes” Charity Fund. The discussion focused on Ukrainian idealism, inner strength, and the work of the “Children of Heroes” CF.
During the conversation, Valeriia shared her thoughts on how the full-scale war has transformed her worldview and served as the impetus for creating the Fund. She noted that life changed forever on February 24, 2022, and everything that once seemed important lost its meaning. It was then that she realized the most vulnerable were the children—those unable to care for themselves or cope with the losses they had endured. This realization became the foundation for establishing the “Children of Heroes” CF, which supports children who have lost one or both parents due to the war.
The “Children of Heroes” Charity Fund provides comprehensive and long-term support to every child—from the moment they join the Fund until they reach adulthood. This includes humanitarian, psychological, and medical aid, as well as educational opportunities. Such long-term assistance requires significant resources, but, as Valeriia emphasized, the true strength of Ukrainians lies in their ability to empathize, support, and act despite difficulties.
“Help doesn’t have to be perfect—the main thing is that it is sincere and consistent. Even one life saved can change the world. When you see the smile of a child who has experienced loss, you realize: this is the greatest reward for our work,” Valeriia Abdal stated.
Towards the end of the conversation, Valeriia presented the host with a symbolic artifact—the Fund’s signature socks, created based on drawings by the children under our care. She noted that they feature bright colors alongside tanks and explosions, reflecting the current reality of childhood in Ukraine. Valeriia expressed her hope that one day these drawings will speak only of peace.
Currently, the “Children of Heroes” CF cares for over 14,300 children who have lost their closest relatives. Nearly 70 new beneficiaries join the Fund every week. Everyone can become a part of this mission—helping children who have experienced loss gain a chance for a dignified future.
