This year, the Austrian project to help Ukrainian children celebrated its 30th anniversary. The festive event took place in Vienna — the city where three decades ago the idea was born that changed the lives of thousands of Ukrainian children.
The celebration brought together those who stood at the origins of the project: the founder and the current team, representatives of the environmental organization GLOBAL 2000, partners, volunteers, and friends who have stayed close all these years — donating, hosting children in their families, helping with treatment and recovery. Among the guests were some of the project’s former beneficiaries, representatives of the local authorities who today support charitable initiatives in Ukraine, diplomats, public figures, and ordinary Austrians for whom helping children has become part of life. The event was also attended by the team of the Ukrainian «GLOBAL2000» CHARITABLE FOUNDATION, which has for several years been the official continuation of this project.
The official part included a presentation of the project’s achievements and inspiring stories — about tens of thousands of children who gained access to healthcare, education, and a safe childhood. The audience recalled the first humanitarian shipments, the first recreation trips, and the first hospitals that received essential equipment.
Then came the emotional part — with memories, Ukrainian songs, and sincere words of gratitude. People in the audience sang along even without knowing the language, and some danced in their seats. The highlight of the evening was a touching video about the children who were helped back then — now adults with their own families, still carrying forward the spirit of kindness. (This video will be shared later separately.)
At the same time, a photo exhibition was displayed with images of Kharkiv after the destruction — a silent reminder of why continued support remains crucial.
Every guest received a thematic tote bag decorated with drawings by Ukrainian children, a postcard showing the panorama of Kharkiv before and after the shelling — signed by children dreaming of recovery from cancer — and small souvenirs with words of gratitude.
At the end of the evening, the foundation’s team spoke about new Christmas initiatives that everyone can already join. And among the guests, new donors immediately appeared — touched by the heartfelt atmosphere and shared compassion.
“The event was organized at a high level, yet it felt deeply sincere,” said Yulia Konotoptseva, Director of the «GLOBAL2000» CHARITABLE FOUNDATION.
Photo album https://global2000.org.ua/news/2384