Laureate of the "For Spiritual Revival" Prize: helping people selflessly is a joy
Selflessly helping people is a joy, Vitaly Kulpekscha, Director of the Religious Mission "Charitable Catholic Society "Caritas" of the Vitebsk Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church in Belarus, told a BELTA correspondent. Today, by the decision of the Head of State, based on the results of 2012, he was awarded the President of the Republic of Belarus Prize "For Spiritual Revival" for his active work in the humanitarian sphere, preservation and dissemination of traditions of charity and mercy in Belarusian society.
According to the laureate of the prize, the time has come to revive the traditions of charity in Belarusian society. "There are material and financial opportunities for this, it is only necessary to awaken the soul for good deeds," the interlocutor is confident. That is why the society began to develop a volunteer movement in 2010. The age of volunteers working in the organization ranges from 15 to 60 years. "Young people join such movements, learn compassion and help here, which means that society will respond more actively to calls for charity," Vitaly Kulpekscha is confident.
The "Caritas" Society of the Vitebsk Diocese was established on December 15, 1999. In 2000, it was registered with the State Committee for Religious and National Affairs of Belarus. With the financial support of Belarusians and foreign partners, "Caritas" cooperates with territorial centers for social services for the population, orphanages and shelters, nursing homes, healthcare and educational institutions, public associations, and provides individual assistance to those in need.
Among the priority projects of the society is assistance to disabled people. In 2003, with the support of "Caritas", the Betel club was organized in Vitebsk, uniting young disabled people with psychophysical development features, which was later transformed into the Betel Day Care Center. It helps to adapt and integrate these young people into society, and to establish connections between them, their families and friends. Currently, the center is attended by more than 40 people.
In psychiatric hospitals and nursing homes for patients with mental disorders, where individuals with mental impairments are treated or reside permanently, the "Love Thy Neighbor" project is being implemented. "Caritas" also pays attention to low-income individuals, orphans, and the homeless. During the festive Christmas days, the charitable organization traditionally holds the "Share the Warmth of Your Soul" campaign and organizes the collection of toys, books, and stationery for children from orphanages and boarding schools.