About Paloma
Building a compassionate community in Vukovar since 2000
Our Mission and Values
Paloma's mission is to provide a safe, supportive, engaging daily environment for the elderly, fishermen, and individuals with disabilities in Vukovar. We strive to improve quality of life and foster community inclusion through compassionate care and meaningful engagement.
Compassion
Caring deeply for every individual we serve
Respect
Honoring the dignity of all community members
Inclusion
Creating spaces where everyone belongs
Transparency
Operating with openness and accountability
Community
Building connections that strengthen us all
Our Story – Serving Vukovar Since 2000
Paloma was founded in 2000 in response to a critical need in the Vukovar community. In the post-war years, many elderly residents, veterans, retired fishermen, and individuals with disabilities faced isolation, limited resources, and a lack of social support structures. Our founding president, Ljiljana Škorić, recognized this gap and brought together compassionate volunteers to create a space where vulnerable community members could find care, companionship, and dignity.
The name "Paloma" – Spanish for dove – was chosen as a symbol of peace, hope, and new beginnings. What began as a one-room gathering space for veterans, retired fishermen, and seniors has grown into a comprehensive day center offering therapeutic activities, home visits, health support, and community partnerships.
Today, Paloma operates as a registered humanitarian association, providing daily programs, mobile outreach, and intergenerational activities. Despite our growth, we have maintained the warm, family-like atmosphere that has been our hallmark from the beginning. Every person who walks through our doors is treated with respect, care, and genuine compassion.
Over the past two decades, we have become a trusted pillar of the Vukovar community, serving hundreds of individuals and their families. Our work continues to evolve to meet changing needs, but our commitment to compassionate, inclusive care remains unwavering.
Why Our Work Matters
Combating Isolation
Many elderly and disabled individuals in Vukovar live alone or have limited social contact. Paloma provides daily structure, social interaction, and a sense of belonging that combats loneliness and improves mental health.
Supporting Families
Our services give family caregivers peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are safe, engaged, and cared for during the day. This respite allows families to work, manage their own health, and maintain balance in their lives.
Building Community
Through intergenerational events, volunteer programs, and community partnerships, Paloma creates connections that bridge age and ability differences. Our retired fishermen share traditional skills with younger volunteers, and seniors mentor students – enriching everyone involved.
A Model of Healing and Hope
In a city that has experienced trauma and rebuilding, Paloma represents healing, unity, and hope. We demonstrate that compassion and community support can transform lives and create a more inclusive society.
Our Team & Leadership
Leadership
Ljiljana Škorić
President and Founder
Mira Milašinović
Vice President
Supported by a dedicated board of advisors drawn from the local community
Our Staff & Volunteers
Our team includes professional staff members who bring expertise and compassion to their roles:
- •Program Coordinator – oversees daily activities and schedules
- •Social Worker – provides counseling and family support
- •Nurse – monitors health and coordinates medical care
- •Volunteers – students to retirees who donate their time and talents
Our volunteers are the heart of Paloma, bringing energy, skills, and genuine care to everything we do. From leading craft sessions to delivering meals, they make our programs possible.
Interested in joining our team?
Become a Volunteer