“Veteran STO”: a place where strength returns to action!

The “Veteran STO” project was created by veterans for veterans. It runs on a peer-to-peer principle, and every day is a step toward socialisation, recovery and a dignified life after service. The project was founded by the NGO “Ukraine Recovery Hub”, a civic organisation that comprehensively supports people and communities affected by the war: humanitarian, medical and social support, as well as help for veterans with reintegration. The founders know that when you come back from war it matters to have a place where you are understood without words. That is how the idea was born to create a social enterprise, the “Veteran STO” car workshop in Kharkiv. It is a space where veterans support their brothers-in-arms, helping them adapt to civilian life, regain confidence and return to a professional rhythm. Taking part in the Impactpreneurship 3.0 programme became a scaling point for Veteran STO. It was here that the team systematised its experience, worked through the business model and turned a volunteer initiative into a sustainable social project. Mentors helped build the financial model, clearly articulate the social mission and show how to combine veteran support with running a professional service. Thanks to the training, the team strengthened its management skills, learned to work with clients and to communicate the project’s value outward, so that more veterans can find work, support and community. The “Veteran STO” workshop has already employed two veterans, combat participants…