United Way Romania, a long-term partner of the Hercules Association, made a significant contribution in 2023 to the success of the BufKids project. United Way Romania funded in 2023 a large part of the activities of our day center, alongside Raiffeisen Bank Romania and PRO TV. This support allowed us to continue providing quality education and development opportunities for 50 vulnerable children in Buftea, demonstrating the positive impact of strategic collaborations in local communities.
The BufKids day center, located in Buftea, represents an educational and social refuge for children in grades I-VIII. With a well-organized structure, the center hosts 30 children from grades V-VIII in the morning and 20 children from grades I-IV in the afternoon. Every day at BufKids provides an opportunity for children to grow and thrive, offering not only lunch but also consistent support with homework, tutoring in Romanian and mathematics, as well as access to non-formal educational and recreational activities.
One of the most remarkable results of BufKids in 2023 was the academic progress of the children. Thanks to the rigorous program and individualized attention, not a single child failed a subject or had to repeat a grade, and over 60% of them achieved school grades above 8. This represents a major achievement, considering the initial challenges of integration and participation from both the children and their families.
Beyond education, the BufKids center played a crucial role in the social development of the children. We observed positive changes in the parents and teachers attitudes, indicating a growing appreciation of the center’s efforts in the community. These subtle but significant changes are essential for creating an environment conducive to the healthy development of children.
Volunteering and partnerships were also the backbone of BufKids’ success. With an extensive network of volunteers and collaborations with various companies and organizations, we were able to offer children a variety of experiences and learning opportunities. These partnerships contributed not only to the current activities but also to the development of projects and the expansion of our impact in the community.
BufKids Center Activities, partially or fully funded in 2023 with United Way Romania’s contribution:
- Educational Activities (A1): Providing free after-school services and homework support for 50 children
- Reading Club (A2): at least one hour per week, either individual reading or group reading and discussions, organized by age groups
- Other educational activities: Online English, Arts & Crafts / Science in English, IT club, health education – including nutrition and hygiene, physical activity and outdoor activities, educational games
- Environmental education activities (A3)
- Connecting children to necessary resources (A4): Social services and medical prevention, including one hot meal per day via catering, food support for families, backpacks, school supplies, clothing, footwear, and occasional dental services
- Creating a support network around children (A5): Forming a support network of volunteer teachers, parents helping with center activities, punctual community support, and good collaboration with local institutions.
- Social assistance for parents and the Parents’ Academy (A6)
- Teachers’ Academy (A7)
These activities not only increase the children’s academic knowledge but also develop their social skills, creativity, and environmental awareness, preparing them for a dignified and responsible future.
