On June 20, 2013, the final of the contest “We Are the City,” organized by integrated iron and steel works “Zaporizhstal,” recognized the best social projects aimed at enhancing the quality and comfort of Zaporozhye’s social environment. 14 winners were awarded grants of 50 thousand UAH each for their impactful initiatives.
The social contest “We Are the City” announced by integrated iron and steel works “Zaporizhstal” started in March 2013 and aroused great interest among institutions, organizations, and residents of Zaporozhye. A total of 130 applications from social organizations, municipal institutions, and self-motivated residents were submitted. Two training sessions for social project planning, facilitated by the Foundation “Development of Ukraine,” were organized, and project presentations were conducted by competitors over three months. During four sessions of the expert council, the technical examination and evaluation of applications were completed, leading to the determination of 14 winning projects.
“Initially, it was planned to determine 10 winners and to provide grants totaling 500 thousand UAH,” commented Rostislav Shurma, the General Director of integrated iron and steel works “Zaporizhstal.” “However, upon reviewing the applications, we decided to increase the number of winners to 14 and the total grant amount to 700 thousand UAH, reflecting the high interest in our contest among engaged and self-motivated residents of Zaporozhye.”
The winning projects were categorized into four main groups: the creation of comfortable living conditions in Zaporozhye, assistance to socially disadvantaged populations, promotion of sports and a healthy lifestyle, and support for educational, cultural, and creative initiatives. Notable projects included the construction of children’s playgrounds, the organization of the “Wood Carving” festival in Dubovaya roscha, the “Street Workout” healthy lifestyle festival, a street football championship, computer literacy training for the elderly, an online platform showcasing children’s artwork, and the renovation of the central library for children named after M. Androsov. All winners are required to implement their projects by the end of 2013.