Open Day at HUG

On November 22, we opened our doors for the very first time and welcomed over 60 people into our space.

We gathered everyone to discover how NGOs function in Sweden, present HUG's work, and discuss the ways to become volunteers. But more than that, it was about meeting face-to-face, asking the questions that matter, and finding those moments of connection that remind us why community spaces like this exist.

‍

The program started with a talk about how NGOs operate in Sweden – covering the basics for anyone interested in starting an organization or joining one as a volunteer. Later, we presented HUG's history,  how we've grown, who makes up our team, and what we're planning next. Our volunteers shared their personal experiences, giving guests a real look behind the scenes of what it's like to work with an NGO.  

It was also a chance to celebrate how far we've come together. We shared stories from the past four years – the challenges we've faced, the people we've helped, the small and the big victories that keep us going. Several attendees who had been thinking about volunteering decided to take the next step, and we're excited to welcome them into our community.

During our celebration, we thanked our volunteers – not just with words and small gifts, but with genuine gratitude for the heart and hours they pour into making HUG what it is.

The event ended with a moment of remembrance. Together, we lit candles and observed a minute of silence for Holodomor Remembrance Day, honoring the victims of the 1932–1933 famine. In that stillness, we held space for memory and for each other.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us at Open Day. Your support inspires us to keep growing together 💙💛