What began with one hand-knitted hat for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy inspired a group of women in Maine to begin knitting cat puppets for children affected by the war in Ukraine. Today, those handmade puppets are distributed through Heal Ukraine Trauma’s trauma-informed children’s programs, where they serve as tools for comfort, emotional expression, and healing.

Keynote speaker Amy Goodrich, Director of Programs and Development, and Elizabeth Ames, Founder and Board Member of Heal Ukraine Trauma, will share the remarkable connection between a local community of knitters in Maine and children, veterans, and families rebuilding their lives in Ukraine.

Through stories, photos, and conversation, attendees will learn how a handmade puppet became a symbol of compassion across continents, while also exploring Heal Ukraine Trauma’s work training Ukrainian clinicians, supporting veterans and military families, and helping children recover from the trauma of war.

LEARN MORE & GET TICKETS HERE

Tuesday, October 20 at 6:00 p.m. (doors open to the public at 5:30 p.m.). $7 for Mechanics’ Hall Members, $10 for General Admission, no one turned away for lack of funds at the door.