Organized in partnership with Ukrainian American House as part of the Domestic Violence Prevention Program, supported by CDSS, this three-day retreat is designed to create a safe, restorative space where women can reconnect with themselves, regain inner strength, and rediscover their sense of self-worth.

From the very beginning, the atmosphere felt calm, warm, and full of trust. It was a space where women could pause, breathe, and, perhaps for the first time in a long while, truly listen to themselves.

A Space to Rediscover Your Value

The day began with two inspiring sessions focused on a woman’s inner value.

Participants explored themes of self-worth, self-acceptance, inner strength, and gentleness — qualities that are often diminished under stress, displacement, or emotional pressure.

“It reminded me that I don’t need to prove anything to be valuable,” one participant shared.

This work lies at the heart of prevention. When a woman reconnects with her sense of value, she becomes more resilient, more confident, and better equipped to recognize and resist unhealthy or harmful dynamics.

Healing Through Creativity

In the second half of the day, participants immersed themselves in creativity and self-expression.

✨ Handmade soap making, where each woman selected her own scents and created something unique
🕯️ Candle making, filling the space with warmth, calmness, and a sense of comfort

These simple yet meaningful activities allowed participants to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience joy in the present moment.

More Than a Retreat

This retreat is more than a series of activities. It is a thoughtfully designed experience that supports women in rebuilding their emotional and psychological resilience.

Within the framework of the Domestic Violence Prevention Program, strengthening a woman’s sense of self-worth is one of the most important steps toward protecting herself from pressure, control, or abuse.

A Meaningful Beginning

The first day became a gentle yet powerful reminder:

that every woman has inherent value
hat this value does not depend on circumstances
and that it can always be rediscovered

“More Precious than Pearls” is not just the name of the retreat — it is a truth each participant begins to rediscover within herself.

We are grateful to Parasolka Ladies for their valuable contribution to the organization of this retreat and for helping create such a warm and supportive space for women.

We look forward to discovering more insights, moments, and experiences from the days ahead — and will continue to share updates as the retreat unfolds.

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