From the very beginning of Reimer Center’s existence, Yarik was there — a young, energetic, and sincere presence in this space of growth and hope. His contribution is hard to overstate: Yarik supported many initiatives launched at the Reimer Center. But most of all, his heart belonged to the children’s ministry, where he worked closely with kids and teenagers for nearly two years.
Anyone who visited the center during those years knows: Yarik was someone who knew how to listen, support, and inspire. To the children, he was a mentor, an older brother, and a friend. Games, conversations, and simple things like shared meals or walks created an atmosphere of trust and warmth.
But life changed. Yarik joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine, heading to the front lines to defend his country, his land, and those he had cared for so deeply during peacetime.
Recently, Yarik returned on a short leave. Just a few days — and of course, he visited the Reimer Center. The club he had poured his heart into was once again filled with familiar smiles, children’s voices, and the warmth of reunion. The kids ran to him with joy — it was a special moment for them. They remembered him, missed him, and waited for him.
Yarik spent time with the older group again. He led games, talked, laughed — and though it was brief, he returned to the role he loved. It was a moment of rest for him — stepping away from the reality of war into a reality he deeply believes in: a brighter, peaceful one.
“These are hard times,” he admits. “But I believe that when it’s over, I’ll be able to return to what I love most — working with kids, being part of their growth and development.”
This visit was not only symbolic — it was deeply needed, for the children and for him. It reminded everyone what is worth fighting for — that there is meaning, there is hope, and there is a future.
