Michael Fitzgerald, a 67-year-old doctor and former military veteran from the United States, left behind the serenity of retirement to confront the challenges of rebuilding lives in war-torn Ukraine. Guided by an unwavering sense of purpose, Michael answered a higher calling—to serve where the need is greatest.

Six months ago, Michael arrived in Ukraine with a dream: to continue his career as a doctor and bring aid to those who needed it most. However, the language barrier made it difficult to move forward. Yet, with determination, years of medical experience, and a lot of heart, he found a way to make it happen.

The clinic will be a safe space for war victims who have gone too long without proper medical care. It will also focus on psychological support, helping adults and children heal from trauma and rebuild their lives.

Michael’s work is a true example of selflessness and compassion. His dedication reminds us that even in the darkest times, there are people who step up to offer healing, hope, and a chance to dream again.

The grand opening of the elementary school in Hansen Village was an actual celebration. Our school is the place that united children from all over Ukraine, and these kids deserve to receive a quality education in a peaceful and supportive atmosphere. The goal of our organization is to set up a new standard for education with critical thinking to grow the future leaders of Ukraine.

It is a big honor for our team to work on such an important project because so many core memories were created during the school years. and Hansen Academy will be remembered as a place of peace, dignity, and respect. We cannot wait to finish the construction of the actual school building that will be open next year where IDP children will finally feel like they belong to the school community.

This summer is all about our youngest residents. Children enjoy their time outside while riding bicycles or swimming in the pool. But it’s also a great time for the kids to catch up on the school program. These kids are special because they were forced to move and change schools multiple times. Many of them haven’t had a chance to experience carefree childhood outside of war time. That’s why it’s important for our team to make sure that our children will be prepared for the new school year and that their transition will be as smooth as possible.

The grand opening of the brand-new clubhouse was like a holiday for all of the citizens in Hansen Village. The clubhouse is not just a building; it’s a vibrant hub for community enrichment, offering a variety of amenities designed to enhance everyone's quality of life.

State-of-the-art Gym that will accommodate the needs of any fitness enthusiasts in their wellness journey

Elegant dining hall that will feed around 300 people daily for free

Modern daycare ensures that the youngest citizens are taken care of while their parents can stay busy with their work schedules

Beauty salon offering a range of services from haircuts and styling to manicures and facials

The family-friendly swimming pool will bring splashes of joy and happiness into the lives of those who well deserve this incredible community after going through the terror of devastating war.

We are excited to see how the clubhouse will bring people closer together to give them a chance to become a strong and supportive community.

It’s been a great experience to welcome a family with newborn triplets in Hansen Village. We make sure that every big family feels welcome in the village with all of the accommodations. Our goal is to care about the growth and strength of the community.

Hansen Village can be officially called a bicycle village. Every child that lives here was gifted a bicycle on the day of their move-in. Our foundation strives to return dignity to those who lost everything, and children are no exception.

Bicycles became an important symbol for our organization. We care that children spend more time outside, so they can make new friends, learn how to socialize after being isolated for so long, and simply improve their mental health.

Watch this touching story of one of our residents who became a community manager. Our organization does not only provide housing, it is important for us to make sure that we help people come back to life, find new jobs, and return their dignity back.

Mykyta shared his difficult story of how his life was affected by the war. He went through struggles of finding food for the newborn and losing his home. But due to his strong spirit, he found strength to restart his life and make sure that his family is taken care of.

Another inspiring story of a talented Olena, a music teacher by profession. She taught children at school. The war met her in Mariupol. She is a widow and has two adopted children. Her family survived the terrible shelling.

The first 200 bicycles arrived at Hansen Village. This day was like a holiday that everyone would remember for a while. Getting the new bicycle was a pure joy not only for the children but also for the parents when they saw the excitement on the faces of their kids.

Hansen Village has unique housing designed specifically for foster families. Large duplexes have big apartments and common areas where children can play and study.

Searching for a housing for big families with children has always been a challenge that became only worse since full scale invasion. It’s an honor for us to help these families that take of many children who lost their parents because of the horrible war.

We have heard so many stories from our residents, but every time new families move in, our hearts still break. Every story that is shared is full of resilience, courage, and humility.

St. Nicholas Day is a special holiday in Ukraine. It’s a symbol of miracles and hope. This day was even more special for our new residents who had joined our big family in Hansen Village.