The Foundation for Partnership and Civil Society Development

Combining playing, learning and goodness through Foundation's manifestation "Philantrhropic Treasure hunt of Pula"

Pula has today become a center of philanthropy, where students gathered to spread kindness and help those in need through play and learning. The "Philanthropic Treasure Hunt of Pula," organized by the Istria Foundation – Fondazione Istria, combined history, solidarity, and fun in a unique competition. This event showcased how even small gestures can have a big impact, inspiring children to become agents of change in their community.

In fact, the "Philanthropic Treasure Hunt of Pula" has been held for the 6th year in a row as part of Philanthropy Week. The event was not just competitive but had a deeper purpose: raising donations for 7 children in need from the Istria County, making this year's treasure hunt a platform for acts of solidarity.

Starting at 9:00 AM at the Forum in Pula, excited students from seven elementary schools—TOŠ Giuseppina Martinuzzi, OŠ Marčana, OŠ Veli Vrh, OŠ Vidikovac, OŠ Kaštanjer, OŠ Centar, and OŠ Šijana—embarked on a philanthropic adventure through the city's historic center, guided by explorers, actors from Teatar Naranča. While learning about Pula’s philanthropic history from the explorers, their mission was also to collect various donations to help children, allowing the students to experience firsthand the power of community and philanthropic action. This donation aspect of the hunt was a new addition this year, emphasizing how even the smallest gestures of solidarity can have a great impact on the lives of others.

The students representing each school were selected through an introductory lecture aimed at familiarizing them with the concept of philanthropy and encouraging them to think creatively by coming up with ideas on ways how vould they contribute to their community. The students with the best ideas earned the opportunity to participate in the Hunt. It is important to note that there were no wrong answers—each group of students successfully grasped the concept of philanthropy and came up with ways to help the community and those in need.

Before the competition began, the participants were greeted by Helga Možé, the directress of the Foundation Istria, Sanja Cinkopan Korotaj, Director of the Pula Tourist Board, Ivan Glušac, Head of the Administrative Department of the Istria County Prefecture, and Ivona Močenić, Deputy Mayor of Pula.

The directress  wished all participants fun ant to use this as an opportunity to learn about the city's cultural and historical heritage. "This is the 6th time this event is being held because we believe it’s important to talk to you about solidarity and helping others."

Sanja Cinkopan Korotaj, Directress of the Pula Tourist Board, thanked the Foundation for organizing the event that introduces students and guests alike to the city’s lesser-known history through a philanthropic map, and encouraged the students to share what they learned.

Ivan Glušac, Head of the Administrative Department of the Istria County Prefecture, highlighted the importance of such programs, stressing that events that teach children about the history and cultural heritage of our city in a fun way play a key role in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening the local identity of Istria County. He also wished them good luck and encouraged them to enjoy this educational and inspiring experience.

Finally, Ivona Močenić, the Deputy Mayor of Pula, addressed the attendees, saying, "Dear children, I’m so happy to see so many of you at this now traditional Philanthropic Treasure Hunt. We know how important it is to do good deeds. When we do good, we become better people. I hope you have fun, learn a lot about the rich culture and history of our city, and later achieve the best results in the quiz."

After the opening speeches, a spirit of competition and curiosity filled the city as students eagerly explored Pula's philanthropic past. The final stop was the City Hall, where a quiz was held. The children were welcomed by the Deputy Mayor of Pula, who said, "It is an honor to have the opportunity to greet you on behalf of the City of Pula and welcome you to the Communal Palace. Philanthropy in Pula has a long tradition; let us remember the great benefactor and humanitarian Pietro Ciscutti, after whom the newly renovated main hall of the Istrian National Theater is named. It is commendable that you are participating in this event today and learning about the importance of doing good deeds," said Deputy Mayor Bruno Cergnul.

The philanthropy-themed quiz was hosted by Ema Korotaj, a 4th-year student at Pula Gymnasium, who participated in the first Treasure Hunt six years ago. The teams answered all the questions quickly, and the winning team, Kaštanjer Elementary School, demonstrated knowledge and resourcefulness. However, the real victory of today's event lies in the shared mission—to help children and raise awareness in the wider community about the importance of philanthropy and solidarity.

The Istria Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to all participants, partners, and donors who made this event possible, and to all the students who showed how unity can bring about great changes. The Philanthropic Treasure Hunt of Pula has once again proven that children, along with local businesses, are a force that can create a better future for all of us.

This year's prize donors were Glavani Park, Dinopark Funtana, and Crazy Cars Moviepark; refreshments were provided by Restaurant Gagliardo by Boccaporta, while in-kind donations for children in need were provided by Valli Cinema, Teatar Naranča, Aquarium Pula, TinkerLabs Pula, the Archaeological Museum of Istria, and Nove Istrske Knjižare, with Pula Water Supply Company once again opening the entrance to the Nimfej spring. Additionally, the event was co-financed by the Pula Tourist Board.

Every year, the Republic of Croatia participates in the celebration of European Day of Philanthropy and Foundations, which is marked throughout Europe on October 1st. Therefore, the last week of September in Croatia is dedicated to Philanthropy Week, with the entire program coordinated by the National Foundation for the Development of Civil Society. The goal of Philanthropy Week is to raise awareness among all citizens about philanthropy and charity in general, highlighting the importance of good deeds and encouraging people to help in their communities.