Allan's Story - How It All Started

Back in February 2025, I joined forces with the charity Pickups For Peace and drove a 4x4 packed with vital supplies needed on the front lines in Ukraine. While there, I visited Open Hearts, an orphanage near Lviv that cares for more than 40 children aged 4 to 18. Many of them have lost one or both parents because of the war.

Outside the rear of the orphanage was a broken down Mini Bus. When I asked about it, I was informed that there was no money to replace it. This means that the kids can't go any further than the boundaries of the orphanage, adding to their boredom and frustrations.

What happens next?

I'm heading back to Ukraine again in late October, once more delivering a 4x4 filled with supplies for the front line, along with books, laptops, warm clothing, bedding, and educational materials for the orphanage, and I need your help.

The children of Open Hearts live in a remote location—safer from daily drone and missile bombardments, but completely cut off from the outside world. This isolation is taking a toll on their already fragile mental health. What they desperately need is a safe, reliable mini bus so staff can take them out for day trips when safe to do so, for learning experiences, and moments of normal childhood.

That's why I'm fundraising £2,000 to go towards repairing or replacing their mini bus. With your help, we can give these children the chance to see beyond the orphanage walls and remind them that life holds more than war and loss.

I warmly invite the Clan Dog community to join me in this mission and contribute to the cause. As a thank-you, you'll receive access to an exclusive live webinar. For more information, please see the next section. Thank you for helping me to help them.

Warm regards,

Allan Ritchie - MGoDT (MPDTI)
Head Trainer & Owner, Clan Dog