Each October, young creators across Ukraine unite for the Vladimir’s Cup — a national online competition that celebrates imagination and resilience. Now in its second year, the Cup inspires students to code, animate, and design digital projects that turn ideas into achievement. Winners will be announced on October 23, honoring Vladimir’s legacy and proving that creativity knows no boundaries.
The I Will Robotics Team, fully supported and funded by the I Will Association, proudly won 2nd place at the First LEGO League Ukraine 2025 in Kyiv!
After last year’s first-place triumph, our young innovators once again proved what teamwork, creativity, and mentorship can achieve — building robots, skills, and dreams one challenge at a time.
In May 2025, the I Will Association, together with Leadership Choices (Germany), completed a powerful Resilience and Leadership Coaching Program for teachers across Ukraine. What began as training became a journey of strength and connection — helping educators stay calm, focused, and hopeful in uncertain times. Through shared stories and expert guidance, teachers rediscovered their confidence and community. The I Will Association continues to stand beside those who inspire the next generation — proving there is strength, hope, and heart in every classroom.
In 2025, the I Will Association launched 7 new LEGO® robotics groups for 56 children aged 7–10, giving them the chance to start coding earlier and continue learning without interruption.
On October 23, the I Will Cup – Vladimir’s Youth Competition 2024 united 106 children from 25 Ukrainian towns in a national coding contest inspired by Vladimir Kotov’s legacy.
Students created animations, games, and stories — and families called the event “magical,” saying it showed their kids they are seen and valued.
On October 23, the I Will Association honoured its founder, Vladimir Kotov, by lighting the annual I Will Candle — a tradition that symbolizes knowledge, hope, and kindness. The celebration also marked annually the I Will Cup – Vladimir’s Youth Competition in programming and technology.
In June 2023, the I Will Association proudly upgraded its first computer class in Yuzhnoukrainsk, Ukraine, giving more children access to modern technology and digital learning. The updated space helps students explore coding and creativity, carrying forward Vladimir Kotov’s legacy of opportunity, education, and hope for every child’s brighter future.
The I Will Association proudly celebrates 20 years of bringing hope, learning, and opportunity to children across Ukraine. Since 2002, our donors and volunteers have helped create classrooms, joyful memories, and brighter futures. Join us in looking back at two decades of impact and happiness.
Meet I Will Code School, an independent space where children learn programming, robotics, and engineering through hands-on lessons, teamwork, and creativity.
On March 10, 2017, the I Will Association held the 2nd I Will Programming & Robotics Festival — one of the most successful learning events in our history. Children from across the Mykolaiv region shared their projects, learned from each other, and celebrated technology, teamwork, and creativity in a day full of energy and inspiration.
The I Will Coding and Robotics School is expanding its LEGO® Robotics classroom in Mykolaiv! With new tablets and LEGO® Education kits, more children can now learn coding and robotics through play. The biggest LEGO donation — a full suitcase carried to Ukraine by Tatiana — sparked a new phase of hands-on, creative learning.
During our traditional trip to Ukraine over Christmas, on December 26, 2016 we opened another computer class in Elanets, Nikolaev region. I Will Class number 12!
On September 1, 2016, the I Will Association launched the I Will Programming Virtual School – I Will Code School, connecting children across Ukraine through coding and robotics. What started as a small online idea grew into a vibrant learning community where students create, collaborate, and compete. Explore over 100 student projects on our Facebook page!
In 2016, I Will Robot was born — marking the launch of the I Will Code School! After years of bringing computers to children across Ukraine, I Will set a new path toward robotics, coding, and structured learning. Through teamwork, creativity, and fun projects, students are now building robots and shaping the future together.
On June 1, 2016, the I Will Association proudly opened I Will Computer Class #11 in Pervomaisk, Mykolaiv region. It was a joyful day as my father cut the ribbon for the 11th time! The new classroom gives children access to technology, learning, and opportunity — turning dreams into brighter futures across Ukraine.
On March 4, 2016, the I Will Association held the Information Technologies Competition, bringing together over 20 students from 10 I Will Computer Centres across the Mykolaiv region. Participants showcased their creativity and skills in Graphic Design, Word Processing, Multimedia, and Programming, making the event an inspiring celebration of learning and innovation!
On Christmas Eve, the I Will Association celebrated the joyful opening of I Will Computer Class #10! The evening sparkled with singing, dancing, and children’s art. Thanks to your generosity, more children can now learn coding, create games and animations, and build confidence through technology — a true Christmas gift of learning and hope.
Nadezhda Playground, founded in 2013 at Ted’s School, has become a favorite spot for preschool learning and play. The kindergarten provides a warm, creative environment where children grow and thrive. With new projects underway, we’re proud to keep supporting joy, learning, and happiness for the youngest members of our community.
On May 18, 2015, I Will Computer Class #9 opened at the Arts and Science Center in Snigirevka, Mykolaiv region. The emotional ceremony marked another step toward bringing technology and opportunity to children. With internet access now available, students can explore, learn, and dream — thanks to the generosity of I Will supporters.
In February 2015, I Will Association’s story was featured on Ukrainian TV, where my father shared how I Will helped a young boy named Kirill. The episode aired on February 6, bringing hope that national attention would speed up his long-awaited medical operation.
An amazing Christmas wish came true in Snegirevka village, Mykolaiv region, as the I Will Association opened Computer Class #8. The whole village gathered to celebrate this joyful event, giving children access to computers for the first time. Their smiles and gratitude made it a truly magical Christmas moment of learning and hope.
On November 20, 2014, International Children’s Day, I WILL celebrated the opening of the renovated Nikolaev Children’s Home, welcoming ten orphaned children into warm new living spaces — a milestone made possible by volunteers and Canadian supporters.
I WILL opened a new pre-school learning centre in Nikolaev, dedicated to teacher Ted Gauder and funded by The Pottruff Family Foundation. Fully renovated and equipped with new furniture and supplies, the centre gives young children a strong start in learning and in life.
I WILL repaired the water heater at the Ochakov Children’s Home on July 3, 2014, restoring hot showers for the children — and celebrated with ice cream on a sunny day, turning a repair into a moment of pure happiness.
I WILL donated clothing, books, and a TV to the Elanets Children’s Home on May 28, 2014. The children responded with a joyful concert of thanks — a heartfelt celebration of generosity and care.
I WILL renewed the original 2002 computer class at Nikolaev Orphanage #5 with a new printer, TV, and computer accessories, ensuring children continue to learn with modern technology and up-to-date tools.
Computer classes at the Nikolaev Children’s Home and Orphanage #5 are thriving, with children eager to learn new skills — all made possible through the continued generosity of I WILL supporters.
On December 25, 2013, I WILL brought New Year cheer to the Nikolaev Children’s Home with gift packages for every child and visited the Gnatishin home to plan new projects for 2014 — a heartfelt celebration of hope and giving.
Playground “Nadezhda (Hope)” opened in Nikolaev on September 30, 2013, thanks to The Pottruff Family Foundation and I WILL supporters. With music, balloons, and children’s laughter, the day celebrated love, generosity, and a new space of joy for orphaned children.
At the “Ukraine Without Orphans” conference, I WILL donated a new computer to the Gnatishin family — parents of seven adopted children in the Snegirevsky region — helping them learn, grow, and build their future together.
I WILL brought birthday gifts to Kirill, a special boy from Nikolaev Orphanage #5. His joy and surprise made the day unforgettable, as I WILL continues to support his well-being with care and love.
The Nikolaev Children’s House of Education celebrates 90 years of helping disadvantaged children. I WILL proudly supports its mission with computer classes, technology, and training — empowering students to learn and thrive.
I WILL supporters funded three rehabilitation trips for six-year-old Nastia Komorkina to a specialized clinic in Truskavtsi, covering all medical and travel needs. Their kindness gave Nastia the gift of healing and hope for a healthier future.
I WILL opened its 7th Computer Class at Nikolaev Orphanage, dedicated to longtime supporter Barbara Kempt. The joyful celebration — complete with music, laughter, and spoon-playing boys — marked another step in giving children access to technology and opportunity.
I WILL supported a family in the Bereznegovaty region who adopted six children by donating bunk beds and a new computer — gifts that brought comfort, learning, and joy to a home built on love.
I WILL brought New Year joy to the youngest children at Nikolaev Orphanage, delivering toy cars, dolls, LEGO games, and a big-screen TV. The gifts, inspired by the kids’ own drawings, arrived just in time for Ukrainian Christmas — and filled the orphanage with laughter and light.
I WILL delivered new convertible desks and chairs to the Yuzhno-Ukrainsk Orphanage, giving children brighter, more comfortable classrooms. Their thank-you drawings said it all — joy, gratitude, and pride in their new space.
Longtime supporter Barbara Kempt continues to knit and donate hats, scarves, gloves, and toys for children in Ukrainian orphanages. During the 2013 visit to Nikolaev, I WILL delivered her handmade gifts — a tradition of love and warmth now felt in homes across the region.
I WILL opened its 6th Computer Learning Center at Nikolaev Orphanage #5 — named “Hope” in honor of Nadezhda, a beloved grandmother whose strength and love inspired generations. Ten years after the first class, I WILL returned to where it all began, bringing new technology and renewed opportunity to the children.
I WILL continues to support Nikolaev Orphanage #5 with meaningful improvements — like a new classroom whiteboard — made possible through the kindness and ongoing donations of our supporters.
I WILL renewed the aging Radsad Orphanage — home to its 4th Computer Learning Center — with new bookshelves, art supplies, gym equipment, and kitchen tools. Even the school’s old sewing machine was repaired, bringing comfort and creativity back into the children’s everyday lives.
I WILL supported Agata from Elanetsk with her eye surgery, covering medical and travel costs. Her operation was a success, and she’s now recovering well — a story of healing and hope made possible by compassion.
I WILL celebrated its 10-Year Anniversary on September 7, 2012, with a joyful evening where all planned projects were fully funded. The milestone marked a decade of dedication, impact, and heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make it possible.
10 years has passed since our first fundraiser, and we were ready to do it again!
I WILL added five new computer stations to the Yuzhnoukrainsk Orphanage in May 2012. The children shared a video describing how the class helps them learn, achieve better grades, and connect with loved ones online.
n February 2012, a delegation led by Tara MacIntosh visited the Yuzhnoukrainsk Orphanage, home of I WILL’s 5th Computer Learning Center. The visit strengthened ties, inspired the children, and was celebrated in the local newspaper — a touching reflection of I WILL’s growing impact in Ukraine.
Just before Ukrainian Christmas, I WILL brought Santa — and a car full of sweets — to Radsad Orphanage, home of the 4th I WILL Computer Learning Center. The visit filled the day with laughter, warmth, and renewed commitment to helping every child thrive.
I WILL opened its 5th Computer Learning Center in Yuzhnoukrainsk, continuing its mission to bring digital education to Ukrainian orphanages. The celebration, led by Vladimir Kotov with a live Skype connection from Toronto, marked another milestone in empowering children through technology.
In Nikolaev, Ukraine, I Will Association is helping 11-year-old Kostia from the village of Veselinovo, who is undergoing chemotherapy treatments. We are covering the cost of his medication and care, and my father recently visited him at the Nikolaev Hospital for Sick Children. We pray for Kostia’s strength, healing, and full recovery.
Longtime I WILL supporter Barbara Kempt from Cape Breton created hand-made dolls, hats, and scarves for children in Yuzhnoukrainsk and nearby orphanages — gifts filled with love that brought comfort and joy to dozens of young lives.
A local Nikolaev newspaper honored I WILL and its supporters for their heartfelt dedication to children in need, praising their compassion and generosity as acts of kindness “born from an inner call to share humanity.”
In 2010, I WILL opened a new computer class in downtown Nikolaev, offering free digital education and career training to disadvantaged youth. The project, led by Vladimir Kotov and Eugeny Paramonov, now gives hundreds of children access to technology — and to a brighter future.
In Kharkiv, Ukraine, the I Will Association delivered warm winter clothing to 217 visually impaired children at the Kharkiv Orphanage. With help from volunteers Dima Skorikov and Olga Riabinina, each child received perfectly fitted clothes and, for many, their first chance to choose something of their own — a gift of warmth, dignity, and joy.
I WILL gave the children of the Nikolaev Orphanage a rare gift — their first professional portraits. For many, it was the first time they had ever been photographed individually, creating cherished keepsakes that now brighten their rooms and remind them they are seen and valued.
WILL’s recent visit to Nikolaev celebrated growth and gratitude — from upgrading the thriving computer class and gifting children their portraits, to supporting a foster family of 11 with books, sweets, and a new refrigerator. Every smile reflected the warmth made possible by I WILL supporters.
I WILL helped Olesia, a young girl from Veselinovo, receive the spinal surgery, corset, and medical care she needed to recover and continue her education — giving her hope for a healthier, brighter future thanks to the generosity of Gary Pottruff and Marie Verschuuren.
Tara MacIntosh and her grandmother, Barbara Kempt, have spent years knitting scarves, mittens, hats, and socks for I WILL’s children — heartfelt gifts that wrap every child in warmth and love.
I WILL launched its second computer class at the Ochakov Orphanage, giving children new access to technology and the excitement of connecting with the world beyond their walls.
I WILL expanded the Nikolaev Computer Room with new full-color printers and upgraded equipment, giving children improved tools for creativity, learning, and preparing professional documents — another step forward in their digital education journey.
During a surprise visit, I WILL delivered new keyboards and mice to the Nikolaev Orphanage’s computer lab — replacing well-worn equipment and celebrating the children’s joy as they helped install the upgrades themselves.
What began as a joyful visit to Ochakov became a powerful eye-opener. I WILL discovered the orphanage’s heartbreaking bathroom conditions and raised funds to completely renovate them — adding new plumbing, tiles, and hot water. The transformation restored both comfort and dignity to the children, thanks to the dedication of Vladimir Kotov and the generosity of I WILL supporters.
A joyful concert by young performers from the Nikolaev Palace of Education in Arts brought music, dance, and laughter to the Ochakov Orphanage — a heartfelt event organized by Vladimir Kotov that united children through art, kindness, and joy.
WILL opened its first Computer Training Class with eight new workstations, bringing digital learning and joy to 325 children in Nikolaev Orphanage #5 — a dream realized through hard work, dedication, and shared kindness.
I WILL helped Irina, a bright and determined student, receive a hearing aid that transformed her life — a gift of sound, learning, and hope that opened new possibilities for her future.
Chef Chris Hockley hosted a cooking class in Toronto that raised $1,000 to fund a hearing aid for 12-year-old Irina Lubitskaya and support computer classes for children at the orphanage — a generous act that changed many young lives.
Hand-knit by Elisabeth Eckhardt in Toronto, two beautiful sweaters found their way to sisters Snezhana and Dalena at the Nikolaev School Orphanage #5 — gifts made with love that will be treasured for years to come.
Southern Pravda highlighted I WILL’s impact in its January 25, 2003 issue, recognizing the organization’s dedication and sharing voices of gratitude from the children it helped.
Brenda Sweeney and Kathy Battista organized two very successful Christmas drives that brought toys, clothing, sporting equipment, and games to 625 children in Nikolaev and Ochakov. The children were thrilled and grateful to their Canadian friends for making their holidays so joyful.
The 2002 visit to the Nikolaev Orphanage marked the moment I WILL was born. What began as a simple trip to meet children and caregivers became a life-changing experience — one that inspired the first I WILL projects in education, care, and opportunity, rooted in compassion and purpose.
Smarties brought joy to 325 children at the Nikolaev School Orphanage #5. Thanks to a generous donation from Michael Fitzgibbon, boxes of colourful chocolate candies filled the classrooms with surprise, laughter, and smiles — a sweet reminder that kindness knows no borders.
Na Zdorovie “Toast Ukraine” was I WILL’s first fundraiser, celebrating Ukrainian culture through food, drinks, and entertainment. The event raised $6,000 to establish a computer lab for children — a milestone that marked the beginning of I WILL’s mission to provide education and poverty relief with warmth, community, and smiles.
With support from I WILL’s friends, a new playground is being built at the Children’s Home in Nikolaev — dedicated to the memory of Nadezhda, whose strength and love for children continue to inspire. Equipment has arrived, and soon the laughter of children will fill the new space.