Say It in Ukrainian: Phrases for Volunteers

Since 2022, millions of Ukrainians have found temporary protection across Europe — in Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Ireland, Italy, and beyond. As a volunteer, even a handful of Ukrainian words signals respect and warmth that no translation app can fully replace.

You do not need to speak Ukrainian fluently. Research on refugee support consistently shows that a simple greeting in someone's own language can reduce anxiety and build trust faster than any formal procedure.

Start with the essentials. 'Pryvit' (При­віт) means 'Hello' in an informal, friendly way — perfect for a welcome centre or community hub. For a more formal setting, use 'Dobroho dnya' (Доброго дня), which means 'Good day.'

'Dyakuyu' (Дякую) means 'Thank you', and 'Bud laska' (Будь ласка) covers both 'Please' and 'You are welcome.' These two phrases alone can carry a whole interaction with grace.

When someone arrives at a food bank, health drop-in, or information desk, these phrases help immediately. 'Chomu ya mozhu vam dopomohty?' (Чим я можу вам допомогти?) means 'How can I help you?' — it is the single most useful sentence a volunteer can learn.

'Vy rozumiyete?' (Ви розумієте?) means 'Do you understand?' Use it gently to check in. If you need to slow down or repeat yourself, say 'Pochekaitʹ, bud laska' (Зачекайте, будь ласка) — 'Please wait a moment' — while you find a bilingual colleague or a translation tool.

For safety and directions, two short phrases matter: 'Tse bezpechno' (Це безпечно) means 'This is safe', and 'Pіdіtʹ za mnoyu' (Підіть за мною) means 'Follow me.' In a busy reception centre, clear and calm guidance can make an overwhelming moment feel manageable.

“You don't need perfect Ukrainian — you need genuine effort. One word in someone's language can open a door that a thousand words in your own cannot.”

Keep a small printed card or phone note with these phrases handy during your volunteer shifts. The act of reaching for it — and trying — matters just as much as getting the pronunciation right. Every attempt is a small act of solidarity.