Whatever life has thrown at us, we’ve been better at dealing with it together.

Milan is a blond man in his forties from Bratislava, with an older sister, a passion for music, organizing festivals, dancing, and cars. Adam, a fit, dark-haired man in his thirties, grew up in a children’s home from the age of three, has many step-siblings, and now works as an expert in painting premium cars. Beyond their shared desire to live life fully and be kind to others, they share something else: an extraordinary friendship. Their bond began when Adam was a child in a children’s home, and Milan was an older friend from the world "outside." This relationship, spanning over 17 years, inspired the creation of the BUDDY program in Slovakia.

How Did You Meet?

Milan: Today, it’s well-known that Laci Kossár founded the civic association PRO VIDA and the BUDDY program with the goal of genuinely helping children in children’s homes. One of the program’s early activities was to teach basic skills like working with computers or writing a CV. I joined the program along with seven colleagues from an international IT company, eager to share our knowledge.

Adam: I remember being impressed by how many hobbies Milan had and the positive energy he radiated. Even after the course ended, he continued visiting me, and our friendship grew naturally. It was authentic, spontaneous—no one was trying to play a role. We just let it flow.

At the time, I was a curious teenager, eager to learn about the world outside the home. Milan was like a fresh breeze of inspiration.

What Made Your Friendship Special?

Milan: Typically, the people children in care interact with—doctors, nurses, psychologists, or social workers—are there in a professional capacity. While they are excellent people, their relationships with the kids often come from a position of authority.

I spent my free time with Adam, offering him the attention that children in care so often lack.

Which Meeting Stuck in Your Memory?

Milan: I’ll never forget the first time Adam came to my home for the weekend. Some of my friends tried to dissuade me, asking if I wasn’t afraid he might steal something (laughs). But I trusted him completely. Even if he had made a mistake, I wouldn’t have condemned him for it—we’re all human.

Adam: Gradually, I got to know Milan’s friends and family. We went on trips, concerts, and walks, and explored the world together—just like friends.

In What Important Moments of Life Have You Already Been There for Adam?

Milan: From opening a bank account to registering an address or navigating bureaucratic hurdles, I’ve been there. People often underestimate how isolated children from care can be. In a family, you can ask your parents, siblings, or even neighbors for help. But who does a young person like Adam from a children’s home turn to?

It’s hard to single out specific moments. Whatever life threw our way, we faced it together. And that’s what matters.

Adam: Absolutely. These experiences taught me independence and prepared me for my own life. I remember being 15 and dreaming about leaving the children’s home at 18, becoming wildly successful, and buying everything I wanted. Milan helped me see reality while also building my confidence. He gave me friendship, a second family, and the support I needed when I was at my lowest.

What Has This Friendship Given You, Milan?

Milan: First and foremost, I’ve gained a lifelong friend. Watching someone grow as a person brings immense joy and responsibility. Answering Adam’s questions often made me reflect on my own values and priorities, and how to express them in ways a 14-year-old could understand.

This experience also changed how I see people. Whether they’re homeless, struggling with addiction, or in need, everyone has a story. Since we don’t know those stories, the least we can do is treat people kindly.

Are You Family to Each Other?

Both (in unison): Yes.

Milan: I tell people he’s my brother. If someone questions the resemblance, I joke, “We’re brothers with different mothers and fathers!” (laughs)

Your Friendship Inspired the BUDDY Program. How Did That Happen?

Milan: By chance, I ran into Laci, the founder of BUDDY, at a supermarket one night. I mentioned how rewarding my friendship with Adam was. At the time, Laci and his colleagues were brainstorming how to make the program more impactful. That’s when everything clicked.

We realized that what a child in care needs most is someone who will stay in their life, helping them build their identity. When a child has that, they can find their own path. That insight shaped the structure of today’s BUDDY program, with its selection process, training, supervision, and real impact on children.

Adam, You Now Help Others from Children’s Homes. How Did That Start?

Adam: People don’t realize how hard it is for children to leave care at 18. You’re given a bag of clothes, a small sum of money, and no family or support.

I remember feeling anxious, sad and alone in a dorm room after work. I often called Milan, who helped me through it. That inspired me to help others.

Since leaving the children’s home, I’ve supported three young men. I gave them a place to stay for a few months, helping them find jobs, become independent, and build stable lives.

I don’t celebrate holidays or accept gifts. To me, the greatest value is time spent together—talking, helping, and being present. That’s what matters to me the most in life.

Milan, What Would You Say to Those Considering Joining BUDDY?

Milan: To anyone thinking about it: “Don’t overthink it—just go for it!” You can profoundly impact a child’s life. You’ll also gain incredible support from experts, discover more about yourself, and get valuable life skills (supposedly it’s great parenting preparation!).

For those already in the program: share your stories. Talk about it as openly as you’d talk about growing a houseplant. Let’s normalize helping each other.

Final Thoughts?

Milan: It’s not what we do for money that matters, but what we do for others and for the world. Helping each other should be a year-round habit—not just at Christmas.

Adam: I agree. The most important thing is having someone who cares about you, exactly as you are. And when children in care lack that, we can step in and provide the love and support they need. That’s what matters the most.

 

Author: Simona Lučkaničová

Photographs: Paulína Ščepková