Table of Contents Message from Jurek Owsiak 4 FAQ 3 Our Mission 5 Get to know us! 5 About the Grand Finale Fundraiser 6 29th Grand Finale Fundraiser 7 Volunteers 7 On the day of the Grand Finale 8 Collection Centre 8 Corporate Support 8 Our Finances and Accountability 9 Fundraising practices 9 Financial reports and transparency 9 Equipment Purchases 9 Our medical initiatives 10 Nationwide Programme for Prevention and Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity 10 Nationwide Programme for New-born Hearing Screening 10 Nationwide Programme for Non-invasive Respiratory Support of New-borns 10 Nationwide Programme for Early Cancer Diagnosis in Children 10 Nationwide Programme for Treating Limb Defects in Children 10 Programme for Paediatric Rheumatic Diseases Diagnostics 11 Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Pregnant Women with Diabetes 11 Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Children with Diabetes 11 We support different branches of medicine 11 Children’s and young people’s mental health services 12 COVID-19 Relief Initiative 12 Dignified care for the elderly 13 Love Heals 13 We help disabled children 14 Get Even with Diabetes 14 CPR for Schools – our educational initiative 14 Ambulances for children’s hospitals 15 Other initiatives and humanitarian actions 15 Peace Patrol 16 Pol’and’Rock Festival 16 Our media 17 Szadowo-Młyn training centre 17
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Message from Jurek Owsiak Dear friends, It seems like it was yesterday – a cold Sunday, January 3rd, 1993. No one expected that our fun-filled, one-time initiative will grow into a symbol which will unite millions of Poles across the world. It’s a challenge to include all elements of our vibrant activity, all of our achievements and accomplishments in this booklet. That’s why when we remember that winter Sunday almost 30 years ago, we want to jump to the present day and ask each and every one of you to find your place in that beautiful history. Remember that our charitable Orchestra is a summary of our common involvement and energy. We – as the staff working at the charity – are busy the entire year making sure that the public money is spent wisely. We also do our best to share the phenomenon of our work with all of you, to make you proud of how effective our initiative proves to be. We want to encourage you to keep playing, keep fundraising, and to keep thinking about supporting those who are weaker, those who need our help every day, regardless of all that might divide us: borders, views, politics, religion. This booklet is the most rudimentary guide about our work. It contains our financial statements, lists our nationwide medical initiatives and encourages you join our initiative – volunteer with the Peace Patrol at Pol’and’Rock Festival or shop for our merchandise at SiemaShop. We play for your sake and with you – so bear in mind that we want to hear from you and draw inspiration from your ideas and messages. Thank you for being with us! Thank you for your support! Thank you for your contribution in creating the strongest brand in Poland. Our charity leads in all opinion rankings among all NGOs and public organizations working in Poland when it comes to public trust. - Jurek Owsiak, founder and chairman of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation
In 29 Grand Finales we have raised over
PLN 1,5 billion
(EUR almost EUR 330 000 000) and donated over 67 300 medical devices* in aid of public health care in Poland. Thank you for your support! * as of September 2021
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Our Mission There are few non-governmental initiatives which have helped shape the social landscape of a country in the way that the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity has influenced Poland. Our charity, established by Jurek Owsiak, has been working since 1993 and it grew to be one of the best-known charities in the country. Our work is now synonymous with charity, voluntary service and social involvement for citizens of Poland and Polish community overseas. We work to improve the conditions at public hospitals in Poland, mainly focusing on different branches of paediatrics. The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity has raised over PLN 1,5 BILLION. We purchased 67 300 pieces of medical equipment such as CT scanners, incubators, surgery and rehabilitation equipment, medical devices for oncology wards and equipment such as hospital beds and other furniture. We aim to buy only the best, most advanced medical devices to ensure that all children in Poland have access to top-quality medical care. The charity has initiated, finances, and helps run eight medical projects, which systematically transform Polish medicine. The charity also promotes first aid and CPR knowledge by running an educational initiative. We introduced CPR training to almost 3 000 000 children from primary schools across the country.
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to join our community of volunteers and take part in the fundraiser. It’s always fun!
FAQ What do you do?
We are the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (GOCC for short), and we raise funds to buy modern equipment for public hospitals in Poland. We focus our work on improving conditions in paediatric and neonatal hospitals. We also finance eight medical initiatives and one educational project as well as providing equipment for medics batting coronavirus and engaging in other charitable projects.
How much money have you raised in aid of Polish medicine? We have raised over PLN 1.5 BILLION (almost EUR 330 000 000)! We bought and donated over 67 300 pieces of medical equipment and we continue our medical purchases.
What does the name of your charity mean? Jurek Owsiak, a man with an abstract sense of humour and founder of our organisation, came up with the name 1993 when the first Grand Finale fundraiser took place. No, we are not an orchestra, but we „play” so that children have access to top-class medical equipment. We love music, and we want everyone to raise funds and have fun at the same time.
How to get in touch with you? You can send us an e-mail to wosp@wosp.org.pl or get in touch with us via social media channels. Our office is in Warsaw, Poland.
Who is Jurek Owsiak?
Jurek Owsiak is a journalist and radio broadcaster. He is also a social activist and founder of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation and the mastermind behind Pol’and’Rock Festival. Jurek is one of the most influential people in Poland. Jurek Owsiak is also an UN Ambassador for Sustainable Development Goals.
Do you buy equipment only for Polish hospitals?
Yes, we aim to support public hospitals in Poland, but we engage in international humanitarian actions.
What is the Grand Finale, and when does it take place? Grand Finale is our charitable fundraiser, and traditionally it takes place on a Sunday of January. Our fundraiser is organised locally and often features many entertainment, sporting, and cultural activities.
Do you fundraise in Poland only?
Volunteers hold local collections across Poland and everywhere where there is a vibrant Polish community. Everyone is welcome
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How to volunteer with you? You can volunteer with us on the day of the Grand Finale by raising money, or you can get involved in the work of a local Collection Centre. You can also join Peace Patrol and co-create the biggest non-commercial events in Europe – the Grand Finale fundraiser and Pol’and’Rock Festival.
How many volunteers help you? 120 000 volunteers support us across the globe! Since the beginning of our work we estimate that 3 000 000 were involved in our fundraiser.
What is a Collection Centre? Collection Centre is a local hub of activity, where activists organise their own, regional editions of the fundraiser. Collection Centres assume responsibility for the fundraiser: enrol and instruct volunteers and hold events making the Grand Finale a real community celebration. There are usually 1700 local Collection Centres registered with our charity – both in Poland and abroad.
What’s up with the red stickers? Volunteers give out red stickers to people who donated money on the day of the Grand Finale. Our logo is one of the most recognised symbols in the country!
How can I donate? You can find a volunteer and donate in person on the day of the Grand Finale fundraiser. You can also support us online, make a direct money transfer or take part in exciting online (and offline) auctions.
Do you organise other events?
Yes! One major event held by our charity is the biggest non-commercial open-air Festival in Europe – Pol’and’Rock Festival, which used to be known as Woodstock Festival Poland. In 2021, our festival returned under the open skies in a brand new, picturesque location in Makowice-Płoty airfield in western Poland.
Is your Festival free?
Yes, it is the biggest free open-air music festival in Europe!
How many people come to Pol’and’Rock Festival?
We estimate that 700 000 people come to Pol’and’Rock, making it the biggest open-air free festival in Europe. Due to pandemic restrictions in force in Poland, the 2021 edition of Pol’and’Rock Festival was held for a limited number of participants. 25 000 people, who had to be vaccinated, were additionally tested to ensure maximum safety of all taking part in the festival. Find out more about us: en.wosp.org.pl
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Get to know us!
Our awards: We have been honoured to receive – among many others: Architect of Sustainable Development – United Nations – for Jerzy Owsiak 1 European Citizen’s Prize established by the European Parliament 2 Two nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize 3 Polish Medical Society Award 4 Effie Awards 5 Honorary Award of Polish Cardiothoracic Surgeon Association 6 European Institute of Culture 7 and Media Award – POLONICUS Pearls of Medicine 7 Best Festival Promotor: International Music Industry Awards Peace Summit Medal for Social Activism – awarded to Jurek Owsiak at the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates Woman of the Year Award 2017 – awarded to Lidia Niedźwiedzka-Owsiak „Plus ratio quam vis” – awarded to Jerzy Owsiak 8 Awards for „Pierwsza Pomoc” (First Aid) board game Award for work for the public benefit given to Jurek Owsiak by the Polish Business Club Trustworthy Brand – in category of Foundations and NGOs
Jurek Owsiak is the founder, chairman of the board of the Foundation and the longest-serving volunteer of the charity. He is a journalist and radio presenter. Other members of the board are: Professor Piotr Burczyński, M.D. Lidia Niedźwiedzka-Owsiak Professor Bohdan Maruszewski, M.D.
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Supervisory board Professor Andrzej Budaj Irena Eris, PhD Fr. Arkadiusz Nowak Professor Bogumiła Milewska-Bobula Professor Michał Matysiak
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We are the most trustworthy organisation in Poland According to 2021 IQS research, 84 % of Poles trust our charity, and it’s the highest result out of all non-governmental organisations in the country. Our charity is associated with qualities such as openness, community, and trust. What is more, 97% of Poles know our brand, and 80% of them know that money donated in aid of the charity will go towards its goal and will be spent conscientiously and honestly.
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About the Grand Finale Fundraiser Grand Finale is a one-day public charitable fundraiser, which traditionally takes place on a Sunday in January. Our charitable collection is held internationally, and it is run by the local hubs of activity – Collection Centres. 1700 Collection Centres organise the work of 120 000 volunteers. Our charitable Orchestra „plays” across the World: in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, across Europe and Russia, in Africa, the Americas, on board of Polish ships, and even at the North Pole research station! Since 1993, Grand Finale fundraiser is held in aid of a specific medical objective. Our main goal is to support Polish children’s hospitals and purchase modern medical equipment. Benefactors can support the effort by putting money in the Collection Boxes, making online and mobile transfers as well as taking part in charitable auctions. The Grand Finale is a vibrant, joyous occasion - much more than a fundraiser. There are entertaining fundraising events, such as concerts, fairs, performances and sporting and creative activities for kids and grown-ups held in aid of our objective. Grand Finale inspires people to volunteer and becomes an opportunity to engage in social activism. It is a way for communities to bond and for people to take up action. Each Grand Finale fundraiser is a grassroots initiative, organised by local activists and relying on local resources. Even though each Grand Finale is different, there are some standard features of each event, for instance, charitable auctions and raffles. One of the highlights of the day is a firework display or its alternative - at 8 PM communities come together to admire the different light shows.
30th Grand Finale Fundraiser - SEE THE LIGHT! THE OBJECTIVE: CHILDREN’S OPHTHALMOLOGY See the light - this is the very telling motto of our winter fundraising initiative. We will raise money to buy equipment for children’s ophthalmology. In 2022 we will purchase medical devices to save children’s eyesight! The annual fundraiser, which is often called Poland’s most prominent public fundraiser, will take place on January 30th, 2022, to mark the 30th anniversary of our initiative.
Volunteers Volunteers are the driving force of our initiative. A group of 120 000 people of all ages, creeds, and world-views contribute their time, energy and enthusiasm to create the most vibrant and exciting fundraiser in the country! Everyone is welcome to volunteer, and we are happy to see so many volunteers returning to „play” with us. What is more, our volunteers often return with their family members and friends who also join our initiative. Our oldest volunteer was well over ninety years old, while the youngest was just a few months old. Everyone can contribute as much time and effort as they can. You can become one of the core members of the Crew at the Collection Centre and oversee the entire organisation of the local event, or become a part of the team tasked with raising funds on the day of the Grand Finale. Volunteering with us is easy and fun – everyone is welcome. The best way to learn more about volunteering is getting in touch with your local Collection Centre because each Grand Finale fundraiser is different.
On the day of the Grand Finale
The upcoming fundraiser aims to buy medical devices for ophthalmology -a branch of medicine treating diseases and conditions of the eye. It is worth noting that the 30th Grand Finale fundraiser will mark the first time we try to tackle the purchase of equipment that will be used to save children’s eyesight. However, we have extensive experience when it comes to treating and preventing retinopathy of prematurity, having established a national programme that helped to run tests of the sight of nearly 225 thousand preemies and save the eyesight of 10 600 children. In addition, we equipped 21specialized surgery centres with laser surgery devices, which allow doctors to perform operations saving the sight of tiny new-born babies, ensuring that they can learn, develop, and discover the world in full colour.
Each Grand Finale volunteer should have their ID card, Collection Box and an ample supply of heart stickers. Volunteers can fundraise in public places and during different fundraising events. In exchange for donations, people receive stickers in the shape of our logo. Everyone in Poland knows our heart-shaped symbol!
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Collection Centre The idea behind our charitable event is to engage local communities. We let local activists take the reins of the fundraising in their area. We provide them with essentials (collection boxes & promotional materials & ID badges), and each year we are surprised by the creativity and resourcefulness of our volunteers. Local activists form Collection Centres, which apart from drafting volunteers and holding the one-day public collection, become hubs of activity for the local community. Collection Centre staff go above and beyond: they organise concerts, have parties, cook-outs, raffles, fairs, sporting events, and other - fun, surprising, and extraordinary initiatives. Local Grand Finales draw attention to their fundraising efforts and publicising the case locally and nationwide. There are almost 1 700 Collection Centres registered each year, and there are almost a hundred Collection Centres formed abroad. What is more, business owners can display our Collection Boxes on their premises to support the objective of the Grand Finale fundraiser. Thank you and keep rocking!
Corporate Support Local Collection Centres are purely grassroots initiatives. We do not finance local events, fundraising initiatives, and other running costs of holding local actions. We always stress the fact that the money raised in aid of our charitable goal MUST NOT go towards holding any events associated with the Grand Finale initiative. ALL funds must go towards the medical objective of the Grand Finale Different Collection Centres might have different needs, and there are many ways in which you can help volunteers. Supporting the most significant charitable initiative in the country can improve your company’s image and promote your products and services to the local community. If your company can offer any form of support: material, financial, or provide your services free of charge, please get in touch with your local Collection Centre!
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Our Finances and Accountability Fundraising practices Our main fundraising activity is the annual, one-day public charitable collection. One hundred twenty thousand volunteers collect funds in Poland and abroad, 1 700 Collection Centres hold a variety of fundraising events and initiatives, businesses raise funds on their premises, and we run different online fundraisers. Our benefactors can make direct bank transfers or donate 1% of their tax return in aid of our mission. The money raised at the Grand Finale go towards the purchase of medical equipment for chosen branch of medicine. We also finance the running of medical and educational initiatives, run a voluntary service programme and offer our support to worthy causes.
Financial reports and transparency
It takes us over a year and a half to file a complete financial statement of how we managed the money raised at the Grand Finale fundraiser. The result of each charitable collection is announced in March and then we analyse the needs of hospitals and their requests and verify them. We have to get through all requests for equipment we received from the hospitals, hold open tenders to buy the equipment, and wait for it to be delivered to hospitals. Sometimes we need to wait for the devices to be produced and shipped from factories outside Poland. Once the machines are delivered, and the staff is instructed on how to use them, we can file our financial report. We can complete a contract We strive to be transparent, honest and accountable for the funds we raised. Independent surveyors audit our performance. We submit our financial reports to all relevant supervisory bodies – appropriate revenue offices, Ministries of Health, Administration, Labour and Social Policy and Ministry of Finances.
How to support our mission? Your donations have the power to change the conditions at public hospitals in Poland! Apart from dropping money into the Collection Box on the day of the Grand Finale, can donate online, on our website, or send a direct money transfer to our account. Benefactors paying taxes in Poland can also choose our charity as recipients of 1% of their tax. We receive donations made through Facebook fundraisers and other digital platforms. All proceeds made from the sale of our merchandise in SiemaShop go towards funding the running of our charity. Another exciting form of donation is taking part in online auctions held at the Allegro bidding platform. Usually, there are over 200 000 items listed in aid of our charity and overall we have raised over PLN 109 000 000 thanks to your generous bids!
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According to our most recent financial statement form 2020, the expenses related to the organisation of the fundraiser amounted to 2.9% of the annual revenue of our Foundation. All remaining funds go solely towards our charitable work.
Equipment Purchases
Each Grand Finale fundraiser is held in aid of a specific branch of medicine. We begin the process by compiling hospital requests for equipment. We then have Open Tenders, where our medical and technical experts assess offers made by the manufacturers and dealers of medical equipment. We can negotiate the best possible deals on medical devices. The report of the purchases made at each Open Tender is filed with the relevant Ministries. Having accounted for all purchases, we submit a full financial report listing: the amount, worth, quality, type of equipment we purchased and specify where the equipment will be delivered to. You can check how we spent your donation! Everyone can look into our spending practices. Website nacoidamojepieniadze. wosp.org.pl provides a detailed breakdown of our expenses, accounting for how much money went towards the purchase of equipment and how much was used to finance medical and educational initiatives.
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International Collection Centres Our initiative first went international in 1993, when a group of amazing enthusiasts from New York City decided to hold the first-ever Grand Finale fundraiser outside of Poland. The Polish community in the US raised money during a fantastic rock’n’roll concert at the Cricket Club. 30 years later we have gone global - our charitable Orchestra begins the fundraiser in Japan, New Zealand, and Australia, taking it across Asia and to Moscow, Russia. Most Collection Centres are active in Europe - with activists joining our initiative in Germany, Benelux, France, Spain, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and Iceland. GOCC volunteers fundraise across the US and in Mexico! Out of 1700 Collection Centres registered annually, there are almost 100 working abroad.
Local Initiative - Global Impact Even though our main objective has always been supporting Polish public healthcare, and Polish ex-pat community is the main driving force behind the fundraiser, Grand Finale is an excellent addition to a community calendar. First and foremost, it is a great way to meet new people, experience Polish culture and strengthen a vibrant, diverse community. Grand Finale events become a showcase for Polish music, cuisine, and hospitality. With a thousand different events, such as raffles, concerts, competitions, and sporting activities taking place across the globe, everyone can find something to fit their taste. Collection Centres are all grassroots initiatives and to put out a series of fun community events, they rely on the support of local authorities and businesses. Every little helps - a friendly venue or a great catering company which is ready to offer their services free of charge can help our volunteers go that extra mile to create a fantastic fundraiser for all community to enjoy!
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Our medical initiatives
Nationwide Programme for Non-invasive Respiratory Support of New-borns Nationwide Programme for Prevention and Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity We launched this initiative in 2001. We opened and equipped 21 specialist laser therapy centres allowing the diagnosis and treatment of children whose retina has been damaged due to premature birth. The Foundation equipped wards in Poland with ophthalmoscopes (devices used to see inside the fundus of the eye) and laser devices. Doctors have examined and diagnosed 254 919 prematurely born babies. As a result, doctors saved the eyesight of 10 692 babies!
We launched this initiative in 2003. Our goal is to lower the number of cases in which mechanical ventilation of premature babies and new-borns is necessary. Mechanical ventilation often leads to severe pulmonary complications, whereas, a non-invasive method does not require for the infant to be intubated. It is also safe to use on even the smallest new-borns. For 325 neonatal wards in Poland we bought 810 devices to overhaul the system of breathing support in neonatal care in Poland!
Nationwide Programme for Early Cancer Diagnosis in Children Nationwide Programme for New-born Hearing Screening We launched this initiative in 2002. All children born in Poland have their hearing tested for free. The tests allow medical professionals to diagnose any hearing defects at a very early stage and take action as fast as it is possible. Since 2002 we have been able to finance the tests for over 6 774 792 new-born babies!
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We launched this initiative in 2009. This medical programme aims to create a nationwide system of an early cancer diagnosis for young patients. To achieve this, we equipped cancer diagnostics centres and oncology wards. Our donations allowed us to establish 80 cancer diagnosis centres across the country. We also equipped a sophisticated ONCOLAB with devices worth PLN 2 000 000. Our biggest single purchase to date was PET-CT scanner for PLN 16 000 000 donated to Memorial Children’s Hospital in Warsaw. An early cancer diagnosis is detrimental in establishing a successful treatment plan.
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Nationwide Programme for Treating Limb Defects in Children We launched this initiative in 2017. We want to ensure that children born with limb defects have access to modern and effective treatment at Polish hospitals. We have equipped Specialist Orthopaedic Clinics in Poznań and Warsaw in Taylor Spatial Frames, and Modular Rail System sets.
Programme for Paediatric Rheumatic Diseases Diagnostics We launched this initiative in 2019. This new initiative aims to equip Paediatric Rheumatology Centres with medical equipment, ensuring that all children have access to professional treatment and care. We have bought sophisticated ultrasound systems for 14 Rheumatology Centres. We have also donated low-field MRI scanners to the three leading treatment centres. Overall we donated 33 devices. We also aim to raise awareness and educate parents and doctors about children’s rheumatic diseases symptoms and treatment.
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Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Pregnant Women with Diabetes We launched this initiative in 2004. Since 2004 we have purchased 1 776 modern personal insulin pumps which are available for rent. Individual insulin pumps make managing diabetes easier and less stressful, which is more conducive for a healthy pregnancy. Insulin pumps are rented free of charge.
Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Children with Diabetes Wet terminated this programme in 2008 when a state-run medical programme replaced our initiative. Our charity purchased insulin pumps which gave children a chance for a simpler and more active life despite diabetes.
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We support different branches of medicine Even though we are best known for our annual fundraising drive, our charity works all year-round to ensure that children in Polish hospitals receive the best possible care. We have donated equipment for: Paediatric oncology & haematology Paediatric cardiac surgery Paediatric Nephrology Paediatric anaesthesiology & neonatal intensive care
Children’s and young people’s mental health services The conditions at facilities where children and young people can receive help with mental health struggles are appalling. There are shortages when it comes to some of the essential pieces of furniture and equipment. Alarmed by the conditions at these hospitals, we decided to use the money we raised in our 1% tax return charitable drive to provide immediate help for psychiatric wards. We raised PLN 8 729 830, 43 (over EUR 1 919 253). Overall we bought 1 744 pieces of equipment and furniture. We have bought equipment and furniture for hospital wards across the country. 34 wards for children and young adults received the following:
Neonatal surgery Paediatric Gastroenterology
798 hospital beds (equipped in mattresses and two sets of bed linen) 510 comfy seats for therapy rooms
Paediatrics 37 wards for children and young adults received the following:
Neonatology
190 specialised psychological tests used to diagnose
Paediatric traumatology & orthopaedic surgery Paediatric Otorhinolaryngology, audiology and Phoniatrics Paediatric Urology
the youngest patients and specialized training for 2 specialists from each ward 246 specialised psychological tests used to diagnose the youngest patients and specialized training for 2 specialists from each ward
Paediatric diabetology Paediatric Ophthalmology Paediatric pulmonology Paediatric rheumatology Geriatrics
We have also found out that the public made notice of the state of mental health services in the country. 80% of respondents we asked in our poll on the conditions of Polish psychiatric help believe that the conditions at wards for children must be improved. In comparison, 90% believe that there should be a qualified psychologist working at every school in the country.
Children’s and young adults’ psychiatric care
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Love Heals One of the critical factors in a child’s treatment and recovery is emotional comfort, stability, and stress-free environment and that’s why parents, guardians and loved ones need to be present by the little patient’s bedside. The Foundation’s board committed to change adverse conditions at paediatric wards and purchase recliners, chairs and fold-up beds to be used by parents staying by their children’s bedsides. We bought and donated 5 395* recliners and chairs as well as 323 nursing chairs which will serve parents staying with their children at 471 hospitals across the country. *data from 10.2021 We know that love heals, so we are aiming to transform Polish hospitals into places where comfort and modern technology can bring healing to children in need!
Dignified care for the elderly Our attention has been drawn to the dire condition of geriatric and long-term care units in Polish hospitals. These wards were in a desperate situation – lacking not only high-tech medical equipment but also some of the essential furnishings. Our charity decided to take up the challenge and ensure that elderly patients receive medical care in dignified conditions. We have collected funds for geriatrics four times - in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017. We donated 13 642 devices worth over PLN 99 000 000 (over EUR 23 000 000) to 314 medical facilities in Poland. We donated: 8 289 beds 1 590 anti-bedsore mattresses
We help disabled children We run an initiative helping disabled children, and in 2018 we extended this programme to help young adults as well. Even though our main focus is on purchasing equipment for Polish hospitals, we decided to finance the purchase of rehabilitation equipment for individuals – disabled children and young people under 26 years of age. In 2021 alone, we have helped 312 children. Since the launch of this initiative, we have bought equipment for 6 927 children and young adults, allocating for this purpose PLN 28 107 182,78.
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875 wheelchairs 229 patient lifts 286 bath chairs Unfortunately, the fate of this branch of medicine has been threatened – the government decided to withdraw geriatric wards from the National Health Fund financing system.
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COVID-19 Relief Initiative Even though our main focus lies in helping to improve conditions of paediatric medicine in Poland, in 2020, we directed considerable efforts towards supporting the Polish medical system in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. Our initiative was the answer to the raising pleas for support from the medical community in Poland. We bought and donated medical equipment and personal protection equipment for first responders and hospitals. We provided help to 467 hospitals, 417 public and private care homes, 60 nursing homes, and 23 hospices, addressing the most desperate needs, for example, by providing protective gear to frontline medical staff. Overall, we bought 1 883 pieces of equipment, 1 540 ICU beds, 84 medical ventilators, and 247 heart monitors. We also bought 3 000 000 pieces of personal protection equipment. In early March, during the first stages of national lockdown, we launched a citizen’s initiative which aimed to connect local volunteers and activists with vulnerable people, who had to self-isolate. Volunteers were able to help with day-to-day tasks, such as shopping and walking their pets. Over 2 000 volunteers registered in our database!
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Charitable run
Get Even with Diabetes The key element of living with diabetes is managing insulin intake, so having reliable information about the sugar content is extremely important. We’ve teamed up with food manufacturers, who pledged to put relevant nutritional information on food packaging. It makes it much easier to calculate blood sugar levels on the go.
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We hold a charitable run which helps us raise awareness and serves to raise money for the purchase of personal insulin pumps for pregnant women with diabetes. The main event takes place in Warsaw, where 5000 runners participate in a 5K race. Money raised through the sale of starter packs goes towards the purchase of personal insulin pumps. The virtual edition of the race – when everyone anywhere could participate in our run attracted a record number of runners – 15 887 participants who had one goal – to show their support of people living with diabetes and promote healthy lifestyle! Participants came from 3 500 locations, and overall they have covered the distance of 130 932 kilometres which equals to 380 thousand football pitches or 37 walks around the entire country! Thanks to the money raised at the Get Even with Diabetes Race we were able to buy 195 insulin pumps for pregnant women with diabetes.
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CPR for Schools – our educational initiative The initiative was launched in 2006. We want to introduce universal CPR and first aid education to all primary pupils. We organise free training courses. Our qualified instructors show primary school teachers all they need to know about CPR and teaching first aid to their young pupils. We also provide books and teaching aids to schools taking part in the initiative, so that children from primary schools nationwide have access to free, universal first aid and CPR education! 30 763 teachers took part in the training 12 593 schools participate in the programme 91% of schools in the country participate in the educational initiative almost 3 000 000 children learned CPR
Learning CPR can be fun We want to promote first aid and CPR knowledge, so we hold two events aiming to show how easy and fun it is to learn CPR. Record in Simultaneous CPR session is a nationwide event, held in aid of World Restart a Heart Day. We want to promote CPR knowledge everywhere by encouraging organisations and individuals to take part in a simultaneous CPR session. To date, 661 213 people joined our initiative!
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GOCC Landmarks Across the Country We’re very happy and honoured to hear that local communities decide to commemorate our organization and values by officially giving different locations our name. So far, there are 38 different places named after the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation: ROUNDABOUTS Biała Podlaska Gorzów Wielkopolski Jaworzno Kołobrzeg Kostrzyn nad Odrą Rawicz Rokietnica Skarżysko-Kamienna Szczecinek Warsaw Zduńska Wola Sosnowiec Jelenia Góra Kielce Konin BRIDGES Darłowo Ostróda Barczewo MURALS Łódź Słubice The Hague CITY SQUARES Włocławek Jastrzbie Zdrój Ciechanów Gostyń STATUES Marian – statue of a seagull representing GOCC volunteer in Kołobrzeg PLAQUE Zielona Góra HOSPITAL UNITS Neonatal Unit in Biała Podlaska Medical Care Centre in Biała Podlaska Neonatal Unit in Cieszyn Neonatal and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Elbląg Children’s Cardiac Surgery Unit in Gdansk Neonatal Unit in Kraków Neonatal and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Lublin ONCOLAB & Teaching Unit at Paediatric, Oncology, Haematology and Diabetology in Łódź Neonatal Unit in Ostrów Wielkopolski Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Warsaw Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Bochnia
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Ambulances for children’s hospitals Our charity donated 38 ambulances to hospitals across the country. Emergency vehicles were donated to hospitals in: Częstochowa Dąbrowa Białostocka Drawsko Pomorskie Gdańsk Lesko Limanowa Mława Sieradz Sochaczew Terespol Wyrzysk Zamość Żary Żywiec Lębork Łódź Rzeszów Szczecin Warszawa Wrocław Kraków Przemyśl Kostrzyn nad Odrą Ostrów Wielkopolski Elbląg Płońsk Białystok Ustrzyki Dolne Poznań
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Other initiatives and humanitarian actions We aim to go far beyond supporting medicine in Poland, engaging in different humanitarian initiatives and working on different platforms:
Members of Peace Patrol are volunteers trained in first aid and event health & safety. Peace Patrol volunteers participate in two significant events – Grand Finale charitable fundraiser and Pol’and’Rock Festival - but they take part in different activities!
In 1997 we organised 156 aid convoys, which brought supplies to flood-stricken regions of southern Poland. In 1999 we organised a medical convoy for Albanian refugees. In 2005 we purchased medical equipment for tsunami-stricken hospitals in Sri Lanka. We supplied five hospitals with much-needed devices. In 2006 we supported Polish Firefighting Services. In 2010 we organised ‚Small Finale’ themed ‚Stop Floods!’. The funds were raised in aid of Polish Voluntary Firefighting Services enabling us to equip 564 units. In 2012 we donated 100 ‚Braille typewriters’ for blind pupils from Kibeho school in Rwanda. In 2013 we organised first Now! Go Online conference on implementation of new technologies and how online presence can shape the work of the third sector. In 2014 we invited Polish NGOs to attend meetings and seminars on NGOs and the digital World. In 2017 we have bought equipment for volunteer firefighters. We donated devices to 178 volunteer firefighting crews. In 2019 we launched our anti-hate and anti-bullying campaign with the nation’s Ombudsman. In 2020 we began our emergency initiative to support fight against COVID-19 pandemic. We donated equipment for nearly PLN 70 000 000. In 2021 we created an outdoor billboard campaign to announce the result of our fundraising initiative and to thank all medics for their work and commitment. In 2021 we have began our support for the activists and medics working to help migrants at the border between Poland and Belarus. We donated equipment for over PLN 40 000.
Peace Patrol is open to everyone willing to meet new people, learn new skills, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime. To become a festival steward and join the Patrol, you must first take part in a weekend training in our volunteer service centre in Szadowo-Młyn.
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The Most Beautiful Festival in the World In 2021 we made a wonderful return to a festival held under the open skies – we have found a new beautiful location for Pol’and’Rock Festival and we were able to hold a safe event for 25 000 attendees. We met for three days filled with music and fun at the Makowice-Płoty airfield in western Poland.
WE BELIEVE IN LOVE, FRIENDSHIP, AND MUSIC! Pol’and’Rock Festival is the largest non-commercial music and arts festival in Europe. Yes, there are no tickets and concerts are all FREE! Formerly known as Woodstock Festival Poland, this massive event drew inspiration from the famous Woodstock Music and Arts Fair in 1969. The Festival, held in Poland since 1994 continued to nurture the ideals of peace, love, and friendship, becoming a cult event in central Europe. Festival line-up is a vibrant mixture of emerging talent from all over the World and ultimate festival headliners, taking over five festival stages. We also make sure to promote cultural, educational, and social awareness campaigns.
Each participant had to be vaccinated and we have introduced additional safety measures such as rapid COVID-19 tests for all entering the festival site. A vibrant Main Stage hosted both Polish and international bands (including Slift from France, Dubioza Kolektiv from the Balkans, Jahcoustix from Germany and Morgane Ji from Reunion Island). Festival participants enjoyed, yet again, an atmosphere of friendship, music, and love. The Academy of the Finest of Arts hosted a plethora of distinguished guests and representatives from NGOs, who ran 444 different workshops. It’s a place of learning, exchange of ideas and experiences. When we asked you how did you like the festival, we received a resounding YES from 98% of participants. We are also very happy to note, that the same percentage of festival attendees said they felt safe at the event.
The festival hosts over 75 NGOs which present their initiatives and teach the festival-goers about their mission. The spheres of activities span from sports and recreation to human rights, equality, and LGBTQ rights. The Academy of the Finest of Arts hosts meetings with esteemed public figures, authorities in different fields: scientists, travellers, activists and artists. We estimate almost 700 000 people visited Pol’and’Rock Festival in 2019!
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No Hate, Just Rock!
OUR MEDIA Follow Kręcioła YouTube channel for the latest updates about our charity and for live music videos from Pol’and’Rock Festival and behind-the-scenes interviews with the stars. There are almost a 100 concerts available to watch for FREE at out YouTube channel! youtube.com/kreciolatv Look for @kreciolatv online!
Standing up to hate together. We believe that the solution to hate and hate speech lies in positivity. By tapping into creativity, friendliness, and kindness, we can put a stop to the spreading epidemics of hate. We would like to reach as many people as possible and to spread the message of support, friendship and trust. We believe that we can win this fight - as long as we all come together and create a community of mutual support and understanding. The first step of our awareness campaign was a debate. We were joined by top experts in the field: lawyers, educators, and social campaigners. Our initiative is backed by the Polish Ombudsman, Adam Bodnar, and we were overwhelmed by the public support of our idea.
Pol’and’Rock Radio Boasting the biggest collection of music recorded live, our internet radio is the best destination for rock music lovers everywhere! Listen online: radiopolandrock.pl
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Szadowo-Młyn training centre Time for an adventure! Combining team-building and survival activities, retreats at the Szadowo-Młyn centre are a great way to bring your team together and learn new skills.
For adults We offer company retreats, team-building and first aid training courses tailored to your team’s requirements.
For kids We organise summer and winter camps for children and teenagers. Filled with fun activities, survival tasks and a lot of opportunities to learn, holiday camps are a great way for kids to learn, explore their skills, and meet new friends. Our qualified instructors will focus on building your kid’s confidence and knowledge. Ośrodek Szkoleniowy Szadowo-Młyn Szadowo 1, 82-500 Kwidzyn, tel. +48 55 261 34 55 szadowomlyn@szadowomlyn.pl www.facebook.com/szadowomlyn www.szadowomlyn.pl fot. Łukasz Widziszowski, Paweł Krupka, Dawid Ilnicki, Ola Drutkowska, Marlena Kuczko, Igor Kohutnicki, Cezary Lewandowski, Michał Kwaśniewski, Damian Mękal, Dariusz Breś, Marcin Michoń, Lucyna Lewandowska, Marta Szpakowska, Stanisław Wadas, Dominik Malik, Grzegorz Adamek, Paweł Wołochowicz, Bartosz Chodorowski, Marcin Zieliński
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