The "Dear Friend..." Project

In the fast-paced narrative of the 21st century, where digital connections flicker across screens and virtual avatars populate our social landscapes, there lies a poignant paradox: loneliness. Despite the interconnectedness that technology enables, an epidemic of isolation pervades the lives of many, casting a shadow over their everyday existence. This quiet affliction knows no bounds of age, circumstance, or background; it seeps into the lives of the elderly residing in retirement homes, the children navigating the labyrinth of orphanages, and survivors seeking refuge from the storm of domestic violence.

Within the serene walls of retirement homes, where the gentle rustling of leaves once mingled with the laughter of generations, now live individuals whose lives are a testament to the passage of time. Here, amidst the soft glow of lamps and the comforting embrace of well-worn armchairs, lies a community that yearns for the simple pleasure of companionship. Each day unfolds like a delicate dance, with moments of solitude punctuated by fleeting interactions that serve as reminders of the warmth and friendship that once defined their days.

In the tender corridors of orphanages, where children’s laughter should resonate like the sweetest melody, there exists a palpable sense of longing. Amidst the pitter-patter of tiny feet and the quiet murmur of whispered dreams, dwell souls whose innocence belies the weight of their circumstances. Separated from the embrace of family, these children navigate the maze of childhood with hearts yearning for the stability and love that only a parent can provide.

And within the protected confines of shelters for survivors of domestic violence, where the scars of trauma are as visible as the air they breathe, there is a silence that speaks volumes. Alongside the gentle hum of fluorescent lights and the quiet buzz of whispered conversations, reside individuals whose lives are marked by unspeakable pain and fear. Each day is a delicate balance between healing and surviving, with moments of quiet reflection interrupted by the constant drumbeat of uncertainty and anxiety.

In response, we present “Dragi Prijatelju…” — a beacon of hope in the vast expanse of loneliness. Our project seeks to forge lasting connections between these diverse souls, weaving a tapestry of empathy, understanding, and compassion across generations and circumstances. Through the timeless art of letter-writing, we strive to transcend the barriers of distance and circumstance, nurturing meaningful relationships rooted in genuine human connection.

“Dragi Prijatelju…” is more than just a letter-writing project; it is a testament to the power of empathy and solidarity in an increasingly fragmented world. By bridging the chasm of loneliness that afflicts the elderly, orphans, and survivors of domestic violence, we aim to foster a community of support and companionship where none existed before. Let us embark on this journey of connection together, guided by the simple yet profound belief that one letter has the power to illuminate even the darkest corners.

Project Justification

Social isolation has adversely affected many. For older adults, it is responsible for around 25% of those over 65 facing a mental health crisis: anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Among children in orphanages, the percentage is even higher by 12%. Isolation plays a crucial role in the lives of victims of violence, often manifesting as a form of psychological abuse, where many victims find it difficult to establish social contact after enduring psychological trauma. Bosnia and Herzegovina faces a significant aging population. Additionally, it is estimated that in 2023, approximately 500 women resided in safe houses in BiH. During 2022, orphanages for children and youth without parental care had 1,013 users, including 492 females and 521 males, according to data published by the Agency for Statistics of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the publication “Women and Men in BiH.” Beyond the issue of isolation, our society, despite being closer than ever thanks to social networks, is becoming increasingly distant, with less empathy, humanity, and love for people. In response to these challenges, “Dragi prijatelju …” project promotes:

1. Letter Writing as an Act of Caring: Writing letters fosters a deep, personal connection between the writer and the recipient, offering a tangible expression of care and concern.
2. Mutual Benefit of Letter Writing: Both the letter-writer and the recipient gain emotional and psychological benefits from the exchange, creating a bond that transcends physical and circumstantial barriers.
3. Building Bridges Through Letters: The act of writing letters serves as a bridge, connecting different parts of society, fostering understanding, and building a sense of community.

Objectives

Guided by the mission and goals of the Humanity in Action program, EDVACAY participants Ena Beganović, Amela Tahirbegović, and Nizama Husetić aim to promote dialogue to understand and respond to the challenges that democratic societies face as they become increasingly diverse. The goal of this project is to provide emotional support to residents of retirement homes, safe houses, and orphanages.

Through the letters sent to the residents of these institutions, the projects aims to:

• Support Vulnerable Groups: Offer emotional support to the elderly, orphans, and survivors of domestic violence.
• Connect These Parts of Society with the Wider Community: Build bridges between these isolated groups and the broader community.
• Raise Awareness: Highlight issues of neglect and lack of care for these vulnerable populations.
• Encourage Creativity and Therapeutic Processes: Inspire creativity and provide a therapeutic outlet for both the letter-writers and recipients.

Project Activities

As part of the project activities, the team held the panel discussion “Reconnecting Again: Tackling Social Isolation and the Lack of Empathy” at Europe House on July 30th, 2024. The event addressed the pressing challenges of social isolation and the decline of empathy in our communities, with a focus on how to rebuild meaningful connections. The discussion featured insights from three distinguished experts: Mia Komšić, a psychologist and psychotherapist with extensive experience in mental health and emotional support; Edina Bašić from the Center for Healthy Aging, who has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for the elderly; and Lejla Lojo Karamehmedović from Fondacija lokalne demokratije, an organization committed to promoting human rights and supporting marginalized groups. The panel successfully fostered a crucial dialogue on how to confront these challenges together.