National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, Albania.
SOS Children’s Villages Albania is committed to ensuring that all children in need have quality care, as their basic right. Thanks to the support of international and local partners, companies and individuals that engage in our mission, we realize the promise that every child grows up in a stable family and loved as part of a community that supports it. We believe that no child should grow up alone and that every child should live in a stable and caring family as part of a supportive community. This gives them an opportunity to simply be a child.
SOS Children’s Villages Albania provides concrete answers through four types of interventions:
As we mature, we come to realize that happiness can be found even in the midst of sorrowful tales. During my time in the village, I developed a newfound appreciation for the love that comes with having siblings. Sara* and Ani* became my sisters in the household, and together we shared both our troubles and aspirations. We played, laughed, and even shed tears together. Hand in hand, we grew up alongside each other and created countless cherished memories. Is that the entirety of what a sister represents in the end?
“Dear diary, I’m writing to you because I don’t want to share my wishes with my parents. I know that they will not be able to make it happen for me, and this causes sadness in their eyes…”
Ada’s mother is unable to work due to her mental health conditions, and occasionally she is unable to care for girls. Ada’s grandmother is available to help, but she is old and in poor health. Ada’s father is the only provider of food for the family, but not having a profession makes it even harder for him to find a job. Ada and her sister did not attend school regularly.
Fredi*, her father, participated in various parenting workshops to improve his parental skills. Ada and her sister were supported with psychological consulting and education, including school supplies, learning materials and after-school help. Ada and her family members worked together with the social workers, and experts to strengthen the family.
During a training session after a year of receiving support, Fredi said:
“I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, I work hard, I love my family, and I take care of my children, my wife and my mother. We all face challenges at different times, but some struggles can be more difficult than others. My situation has taught me that we should be less judgmental and more supportive of those going through difficult times. Through my experiences, I have come to understand that even simple acts of kindness can have a significant impact on those who are struggling with various challenges in their lives.”
