We’d like to share a story that once again proves how connection and support can work wonders — and truly change the world for the better.

In May 2023, the ambassadors of the UNITED24 platform — the American band Imagine Dragons — released a music video for their song “Crushed.” Its main character is 14-year-old Sashko from Novohryhorivka, Mykolaiv region, whose home was destroyed by Russian shelling.

The video was directed by Ty Arnold, known for creating Imagine Dragons’ most iconic videos. Ty met Sashko during a two-month journey across Ukraine.

“I met Sashko while delivering humanitarian aid to his village, Novohryhorivka. I was walking among the ruins when I noticed him wandering alone. We started talking, and I learned his story. I filmed him as we spoke. Later, after discussing it with Imagine Dragons, I felt these scenes could tell an important story about Ukraine and the war. Eventually, Sashko agreed, and I’m so glad we created something meaningful that changed his life,” said Ty Arnold.

“When Ty arrived in Ukraine, we thought he’d stay around Kyiv, maybe nearby regions. But he traveled further — two months through the east and south, spending New Year’s Eve with Ukrainian soldiers in Bakhmut. Then he told us he had filmed a touching story about a boy, and he believed it could become an Imagine Dragons video. We were incredibly grateful — each such project is another chance to remind the world of the war in Ukraine. Watching Crushed without tears was impossible. We knew right away we had to help bring Sashko back home. So we reached out to our longtime partner, Aurora. The decision was made in 10 minutes. For that instant response and heartfelt support, we bow deeply to all the donors of UNITED24,” said Yaroslava Hres, UNITED24 coordinator.

Thanks to this outreach from the UNITED24 fundraising platform, the Aurora team learned about Sashko’s story and made the decision to help — by rebuilding his home.

“Sashko’s house was severely damaged — some parts need to be built from scratch. So we decided to go a bit further: we’re adding a couple of extra rooms and a veranda, something his mom always dreamed of. The builders are working fast and promised to complete everything in just a few months. Everyone involved feels emotionally connected to the story of this boy — a boy who refused offers to move to a city, another village, or even into a brand-new home or apartment. His only dream was to return to his home. We’re proud to help make that dream come true,” said Taras Panasenko, CEO of Aurora.