50 organizations showcase their work at 2012 NGO Fair

About 50 nongovernmental organizations in Moldova have exhibited their activity at the 2012 NGO Fair, hosted by Stefan cel Mare Park on Friday. Visitors had the possibility to learn about the variety of services offered by the NGOs, but also about how they can become beneficiaries, volunteers or donors. National artists and dance groups have performed during the fair, supporting the action, Info-Prim Neo reports. Chisinau Mayor Dorin Chirtoaca stated during the event that the Moldovan NGOs become stronger with every year passing. Nongovernmental organizations have gained more power and have a greater capability to organize things contributing to the advancement of society even do the government’s job in some cases. Morana Smodlaka, FHI 360 program manager, said that the fair is organized for the third time. 50 NGOs participate this year, more than doubling the first fair’s attendance of 20 organizations. “An indicator of a strong society is the close relationship between NGOs and the people. Moldovan NGOs are very beneficial for the population, working to help disabled children integrate into mainstream schools, working closely with children left behind by migrant workers, and with old people who are in need of help”, said Morana Smodlaka. Otilia Sarbu, head of “Caritas Moldova”, said that the organization has opened several placement centers for different types of beneficiaries. Also, the organization is implementing several community development programs, helping communities raise funds and develop their own interventions. Aliona Bercaci, head of “Salvati viata” organization, said that the NGO she represents is collecting and distributing donations in medical assistance to the seriously ill children and teenagers, but also for socially vulnerable families. During its 2 years of activity, the organization has managed to help over 50 seriously ill children. Irina Rusu, member of the Moldovan Blind People’s Society, exhibited the the ways of working with blind people and how they learn the Braille alphabet. Adelina Sochirca, coordinator for the National Center for Preventing Child Abuse, is fighting for children’s rights and for modifying public policies and legislation to the benefit of children. The organization is offering social, psychological and legal assistance to abused children and their family. The NGO Fair was made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), as part of the Moldova Civil Society Strengthening Program (MCSSP), implemented by FHI 360.