About us
Our story
Arms Wide Open was founded in April 2022 by a group of dedicated volunteers from diverse nationalities and professional backgrounds. United by a shared commitment to humanitarian action, they began working together from the earliest days of the war in Ukraine—supporting refugees in Bulgaria through a wide range of initiatives and organizations. Their experience, solidarity, and vision laid the foundation for what would become Arms Wide Open.
Our association proudly employs individuals of diverse religious backgrounds, cultural identities, and nationalities—including those from conflict-affected regions. While these differences may sometimes shape external perceptions of our work, our experience has shown that diversity is a strength. It enriches our perspectives, enhances our impact, and unites us in pursuit of a common cause.
Our Believes
Our Mission
We are committed to building a more inclusive Bulgaria—where refugees, vulnerable individuals, and disadvantaged people are empowered with equal opportunities to thrive.
At the heart of our work is the belief in people’s power to shape their own futures and communities. We create spaces where beneficiaries, local citizens, and volunteers feel a deep sense of belonging and are inspired to take part in shaping and leading meaningful change.
Our Vision
Integration is a shared responsibility—a two-way process that involves both refugees and the host country’s local citizens and institutions working together.
Our objectives
Through our programs and activities, we strive to empower both individuals and communities. We focus on building self-confidence, strengthening decision-making skills, and helping people take control of their lives—equipping them to understand, assert their rights, and actively shape their own development.
By combining modern approaches in both formal and non-formal education, our initiatives create inclusive environments where vulnerable groups can grow, thrive, and realize their full potential.
In their journey of adaptation, refugees should never be expected to abandon their cultural identity. A truly welcoming environment is built when the host community responds with openness and cultural sensitivity. At its best, this mutual respect fosters an inclusive society rooted in continuity—where diversity is not just accepted, but celebrated.
This two-way process forms the foundation of our work. Through dialogue, relationship-building, and shared experiences, we aim to break down prejudice, combat discrimination, support mutual understanding, and promote lasting integration and tolerance.