Localization for NGOs: Why It’s No Longer Optional
By Natalia Tulinova, Head of ZDOROVI, the biggest organization for aiding hospitals in Ukraine
Let’s be honest: when the political winds shift, the first to feel the chill are those of us working on the ground. NGOs, especially in Ukraine, have grown accustomed to balancing between promises and real impact. And while the recent political decisions in the U.S. regarding assistance might make headlines, they don’t define the commitment of the countless organizations and individuals who have stood by us through the years.
At ZDOROVI, we don’t wait for guarantees — we build sustainability ourselves. Our strategy has always been clear: a full-cycle approach to healthcare aid. We analyze needs, design targeted programs, implement them, and secure independent funding.
What We See on the Ground
Our long-standing research project, Barometer, helps us pinpoint real needs in Ukraine’s medical sector. In our most recent wave, two pressing issues stood out:
1. Inclusiveness in medical facilities
- 27.3% of respondents confirmed an urgent need for inclusive solutions.
- 34% indicated that their institutions frequently require measures to improve accessibility.
- Only 20.7% said their facility was adequately equipped.
2. Fundraising independence
- Before February 24, 2022, only 1.3% of hospitals were actively fundraising.
- 16.7% have started since the full-scale war.
- A staggering 62.7% still do not engage in any fundraising efforts.
This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about survival. Relying solely on external funding without local sustainability is no longer an option.
Turning Data into Action
Insights without action are just statistics. That’s why, in early 2025, we launched practical training programs for over 500 medical professionals across Ukraine:
- Conflict Management in Medical Institutions – equipping teams with strategies to handle disputes effectively and maintain healthy communication.
- Barrier-Free Healthcare – helping institutions implement inclusive practices to ensure all patients receive the care they need.
- Fundraising for Medical Institutions – teaching hospitals how to attract grants, secure donor partnerships, and develop long-term fundraising strategies.
The Future: Owning Our Sustainability
We know that international partnerships are vital, and we remain deeply grateful to our American partners, many of whom have supported our Barometer research through organizations like GlobalGiving. The position of one political leader does not reflect the commitment of the many people and institutions that have stood with us.
At ZDOROVI, we’re not just recipients of aid — we are architects of change. By building localized solutions, empowering medical institutions, and ensuring financial sustainability, we are securing the future of healthcare in Ukraine.