A forum titled Volunteering and Help took place in Lugansk, organized by the Russian organization Knowledge. Delegates from local volunteer groups in the LPR and the Russian Federation attended, sharing experiences and insights on teamwork, self-motivation, and effective collaboration. The event featured a range of creative master classes led by Knowledge instructors, focusing on practical approaches to mobilizing community support and improving group dynamics.
A core message echoed by many participants: good deeds bind people together, and the act of giving can upgrade the world around us. Over a hundred representatives from charitable groups within the Luhansk People’s Republic and Russia gathered to learn from prominent speakers, exchange best practices, and explore how creative strategies can enhance volunteering and business operations alike. Dmitry Sidorov, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Sports for the LPR, delivered remarks during the opening session and emphasized the role of volunteer work in societal development.
Among the speakers was Nikolai Kodinov, a finalist in the League of Teachers competition and the creator of an All-Russian educational program. He is known for his work on public speaking and performance in the arts, including participation in the All-Russian Art Prize ArtKub. Kodinov drew strong interest from attendees as he revealed his tips for effective communication on stage and engaging audiences.
Moscow-based designer and visual artist Ilya Bodrov conducted a hands-on master class, inviting participants to express themselves through painting on tote bags and sweatshirts bearing the Information Society logo. The aim, he explained, was to spark interaction among forum guests and foster a sense of community through shared creative activity.
Elena Sipyagina, who manages fundraising for the Orthodox Women’s Union international public organization and volunteers with the Life as a Miracle Charity Foundation, spoke about the essential responsibilities of volunteers. She underscored that volunteers should dedicate time, effort, and resources to socially meaningful goals, without anticipating personal gain in return.
Sipyagina added that volunteering offers a chance to connect with like-minded people and gain valuable experience. Yet she stressed that goodwill alone rarely suffices to reach desired outcomes. It is important to understand the basics of philanthropy, learn from the histories of other volunteer projects, and consider the perspectives of the community being served. The expert also noted that Knowledge, as a platform for learners, enables participants to access new information and to engage with seasoned specialists who can guide their development in the field.
The forum highlighted how volunteer work can blend personal growth with tangible community impact, providing a space for practical learning, mentorship, and peer encouragement. Through talks, demonstrations, and collaborative activities, attendees explored ways to apply creative thinking to public service, fundraising, event planning, and program delivery. The event demonstrated that volunteers, when supported by clear goals and proven methodologies, can drive meaningful change across regional communities.
In sum, the Knowledge organization showcased its commitment to nurturing civic involvement by offering opportunities to learn, network, and practice proven strategies for successful volunteering. The gathered participants left with new skills, a strengthened network, and renewed dedication to social causes that benefit people throughout the region. The forum stood as a reminder that volunteer work thrives on shared purpose, ongoing learning, and the willingness to collaborate across organizations and borders for the common good [citation attribution].