In April 2022, as I went through my morning routine, I turned on the news like I did most days. But this time, the story stopped me in my tracks—nearly 12 million Ukrainian refugees, half of whom were children, had been forced from their homes due to Russia’s violent invasion. These children were suddenly thrust into a world of chaos, experiencing the trauma of war and displacement overnight.

I couldn’t just sit there. I knew I had to do something.

With no clear plan, I purchased a one-way ticket. Since flying directly into Ukraine was impossible—the airports were closed because of the war—I flew to Budapest, Hungary, the closest point I could reach. When I arrived, I immediately started working with kids in refugee camps. These children, uprooted from their homes and thrust into uncertainty, were struggling to process the trauma they were facing. It was here, in the refugee camps of Hungary, that I truly began to understand the scope of the crisis.

As I spent time with these displaced children, I began hearing stories of those who had been left behind in Ukraine. The elderly, the sick, and the poor were trapped in war zones, with little to no access to food, water, or medical care. Many couldn’t escape because they lacked the resources or the physical ability to flee. They were living in the heart of the conflict, cut off from the world, without help.

I couldn’t turn my back on them.

Much like my initial decision to come to Hungary, I quickly pivoted. I found a van, filled it with food, and began driving into the war zones. Every van carried enough food to feed 300 people for 30 days. What started as a small effort quickly grew. We weren’t just delivering food—we were offering a lifeline to people who had been forgotten.

A Growing Mission and Partnerships

Over time, our mission expanded, but we didn’t do it alone. We partnered with other organizations that share our heart and mission, working together to bring humanitarian aid to those most in need. Through these partnerships, we were able to multiply our impact, delivering essential supplies and facilitating evacuations. As of August 2024, If You Don’t Quit You Win has delivered over 7.5 million meals to Ukrainians trapped in active war zones.

Our partnerships have enabled us to reach more people, bring in more resources, and provide hope in the darkest of situations. Whether it’s food, water, medical supplies, or helping people evacuate dangerous areas, we are committed to being there for those who need us most.

Resilience in Action

Resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the lifeblood of our work. When I first flew to Hungary, I didn’t know what to expect, but I knew this: we couldn’t stand by and do nothing. Resilience means showing up, even when you don’t have all the answers, and continuing forward when the situation seems impossible.

The children in those refugee camps, the elderly we fed in war zones, and the volunteers who risk their lives to deliver aid all embody resilience. They’ve taught me that resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving in the face of adversity. It’s about showing up for others when they need it most, whether they’re fleeing a war or navigating the challenges of everyday life.

Our Commitment Moving Forward

Though the war in Ukraine continues, our resolve to serve those in need remains unwavering. While we continue delivering meals and supplies to people trapped in conflict, we are also staying true to our mission here at home. In schools across America, we’ve helped over 2 million students build resilience, emotional strength, and mental health.

Whether we’re helping a child process the trauma of war or equipping a student to face life’s challenges, our message is the same: when you don’t quit, you win. Our work will continue—both in the war zones of Ukraine and in classrooms across America—because resilience knows no borders.

How You Can Help

As we move forward, we invite you to join us. Whether you’re an educator looking to bring our program to your school, a parent seeking support for your child, or someone who feels called to contribute to our humanitarian efforts, your partnership can make all the difference.

Visit www.ifyoudontquityouwin.com to learn more, get involved, or schedule a workshop. Together, we can empower students, support the most vulnerable, and ensure no one is left behind.

Key Takeaways on Resilience:

• Adaptability: Resilience is the ability to adjust to life’s challenges, whether in a global crisis or personal struggles.

• Support Networks: Building and relying on support networks is vital, whether it’s in a classroom or a war zone.

• Purpose: Purpose fuels resilience, allowing people to push through even the most overwhelming circumstances.

When you don’t quit, you win. Together, let’s keep building resilience, one life at a time.