Hope and Heritage in a War Zone: David Cards in Mykolaiv, Ukraine

In this blog post, I’m honored to share how David Cards made a meaningful impact in the Jewish community of Mykolaiv, Ukraine, in March 2025.I would like to express my gratitude to two organizations that helped distribute David Cards across Europe – JCC Global and the JDC.

Below, you’ll find a message written by JDC representatives, highlighting an educational project that was developed around David Cards within the Mykolaiv Jewish community.

This community has been deeply affected by the war in recent years, and it is a true privilege to know that the educational tool I created is contributing in some small way to the limited but vital educational programming still taking place there during these difficult times.— Yoni

As shared by the JDC, on April 2, 2025

I want to share with you about the new project Open Communication: David Cards. The Jewish Identity launched at Mykolaiv JCC NOEK in March 2025.  The project was inspired during last JCC Global retreat in Budapest in 2024, when the JCC NOEK was introduced to David Cards – set of cards that aims to encourage participants to reveal their Jewish identity through self-reflection and to consider it from the perspective of the community and Jewish heritage during group discussions.  

There have been three sessions moderated by a psychologist as part of this project which brought together about 45 participants, including NOEK Parents volunteers, AJT teens from NOEK Teenage club and elderly seniors.

 “During the event, we used David Cards as a tool to reveal personal stories, where each narrative became a piece of a larger mosaic representing our community. We shared our memories, thoughts, and dreams, discovering important values that unite us as a people,” expressed one participant.

“This event was a true example of open communication, mutual learning, and inspiration, strengthening our community and helping to preserve our Jewish heritage. We are grateful to everyone who joined us on this unforgettable journey into our stories and values!” - These are the initial impressions and feedback from participants after their first meeting. 

During the second meeting within the AJT Teen Club, the teenagers engaged in a deep and emotional conversation. They openly shared their thoughts on what it means to be Jewish today, what traditions are important to them, and what they wish to pass on. The cards facilitated discussions that allowed the young people to explore their Jewish identity, resulting in each story coming to life with vivid colors, leading to a more intense and emotional dialogue.

“There were many unexpected discoveries and lively discussions. Most importantly, everyone felt that their voice was significant and that their story contributed to the broader mosaic of the Jewish People. This meeting was a great opportunity not only to understand ourselves better but also to listen to others,” shared the teens.

The most meaningful and unique session took place recently, involving both the older generation and teenagers. This intergenerational dialogue served as a bridge between experience and youthful perspectives, connecting memories to the future.

Elders shared stories about their Jewish families and memories of traditions they have cherished throughout their lives, while the teenagers spoke openly about their search for Jewish identity in the modern world.

 “The psychologist skillfully guided the conversation, encouraging everyone to express themselves and find common ground. Each card opened a new topic for reflection and dialogue. We noticed the atmosphere evolve from curiosity and slight excitement

“Everyone had the opportunity to share their thoughts, experiences, and dreams. This was a unique chance for open discussion, mutual learning, and inspiration. Everyone left the meeting with warmth in their hearts and new perspectives. After all, intergenerational unity is not just a concept; it is a dynamic interaction that helps build our common future.”