The Foundation for Partnership and Civil Society Development

Croatia celebrated its first Giving Week!

As we have previously mentioned, Zaklada Istra - Fondazione Istria has become the Croatian representative and coordinator of the global GivingTuesday initiative!

This year, we organized the "Giving Week," which took place from December 2 to 8, 2024. Giving Week 2024 was celebrated across Croatia through a variety of activities promoting kindness, unity, and philanthropy:

Voluntary Blood Donation by Employees of Istria County: In collaboration with the Istrian Red Cross and the County Governor’s Office, Zaklada Istra organized a blood donation event in Pula, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian giving and personal contributions for the common good.

Writing Positive Messages: Students from the rural schools of Juraj Dobrila in Rovinj and Bale-Valle participated in painting wooden plaques with messages of kindness and generosity, which were then placed in public spaces for passersby to find. LC Studio from Rovinj also joined this positive messaging initiative, with their employees volunteering to laser-cut the plaques, enabling the students to write messages and bring joy to the public.

Donation of Tables to the University of Pula: Zaklada Istra - Fondazione Istria donated tables to the University of Pula, promoting the idea of in-kind donations and cross-sector collaboration.

Volunteer Christmas Ornament-Making in Barban: The Barbačana association in Barban organized a volunteer action to create Christmas ornaments, promoting the spirit of togetherness, socializing, volunteering, and the idea of giving back and enriching the community through personal initiative.

Charity Football Tournament in Varaždin: The City of Varaždin Foundation organized the St. Nicholas charity football tournament. The proceeds from ticket sales were dedicated to purchasing supplies for families in need in the City of Varaždin, with numerous prominent figures from the Croatian cultural and sports scene participating in the tournament.

"Make a Wish" Online Campaign by Zaklada Hrvatska za djecu: Zaklada Hrvatska za djecu from Zagreb conducted an online campaign called "Make a Wish," encouraging citizens to make concrete donations for children in need.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities by Zaklada Zipka: Zaklada Zipka in Varaždin marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and the Foundation's director encouraged attendees to promote the idea of donating within their families, among friends, and in the community, especially for vulnerable groups who are often further marginalized.

The activities carried out during Giving Week 2024 demonstrate the power of unity and the importance of promoting philanthropy in Croatian communities. Zaklada Istra - Fondazione Istria thanks all the partners, organizations, and citizens who supported this initiative and contributed to creating positive change through their participation.

For involvement or more information about GivingTuesday Croatia and upcoming initiatives, visit the official Facebook page of GivingTuesday Croatia. The GivingTuesday initiative started in 2012 with the goal of promoting philanthropy, volunteering, giving, and performing good deeds worldwide. It is celebrated in nearly 100 countries, inspiring individuals and groups to support local and global philanthropic initiatives. The movement encourages year-round philanthropy through campaigns, events, and partnerships, urging individuals, non-profit organizations, local governments, and businesses to collaborate in addressing social challenges.