2
Table of Contests Message from Jurek Owsiak 4 Our Mission 5 Get to know us! 6 We are the most trustworthy organisation in Poland 6 Our awards: 7 About the Grand Finale fundraiser 8 The 32nd Grand Finale 9 Volounteers 11 Collection Centre 12 International Collection Centre 12 Local initiative - Global Impact 13 On the day of the Grand Finale 14 Corporate Support 14 How to support our mission? 14 Our Finances and Accountability 16 Fundraising practices 16 Financial reports and transparency 16 Equipment Purchases 17 Our medical initiatives 18 Nationwide Programme for Prevention and Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity 18 Nationwide Programme for New-born Hearing Screening 18 Nationwide Programme for Non-invasive Respiratory Support of New-borns 19 Nationwide Programme for Early Cancer Diagnosis in Children 19 Nationwide Programme for Treating Limb Defects in Children 20 Programme for Paediatric Rheumatic Diseases Diagnostics 20 Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Children with Diabetes 21 Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Pregnant Women with Diabetes 21 We support different branches of medicine 22 Dignified care for the elderly 23 Children’s and young people’s mental health services 23 Love Heals 24 We help individuals with disabilities 24 We want to beat sepsis 25 Get even with diabetes! 26 Charitable run 27 CPR for Schools 28 Ambulances purchased by the GOCC Foundation 29 Fighting crises 30 Other initiatives and humanitarian actions 31 Peace Patrol 32 GOCC Landmarks Across the Country 33 Pol’and’Rock Festival 34 The Most Beautiful Festival in the World 35 Our Media 36 Pol’and’Rock Radio 37 Złoty Melon records 37 FAQ 38 SIEMASHOP 40 Szadowo Młyn training centre 42 Long-standing friends of the GOCC Foundation 43
3
Message from Jurek Owsiak Dear Reader, The guidebook you are holding in your hands summarizes everything that the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation does every year. More than 3 decades since our beginnings, when many of our initiatives have already become part of history, and others would remain one-off projects, our Foundation is relentlessly teeming with work that brings all our ideas to life. For the first few years of its existence, the Foundation focused its work throughout the year on supporting a selected branch of medicine that changed every January. For quite some time now, however, in response to the changing reality, year after year, we have taken on a great many different challenges. We never planned for our Grand Finale fundraiser to be dedicated to the post-pandemic diseases and yet, when COVID-19 was raging all over, we assisted Polish health care very strongly. We also provided immediate relief to people tragically trapped on the Polish-Belarusian border, or when war broke out in Ukraine, among others. Furthermore, we were always ready to provide our support whenever it was needed. Despite the fact that for several years the system had been totally bypassing us, unwilling to cooperate in any way, we consistently taught first aid to children in Polish schools. Even in the difficult pandemic times, were we able to maintain our tradition of acknowledging all the volunteers and supporters of the Grand Finale fundraiser, and invite them to the Most Beautiful Festival in the World - Pol’and’Rock Festival, formerly known as Woodstock Festival Poland. Not even for a moment have we slowed down in carrying out our statutory activities and fulfilling our annual Grand Finale fundraiser’s aims, which primarily involve the purchase of medical equipment. It may be hard to believe, but in 31 years we have raised nearly PLN 2 billion and purchased ca. 71,500 pieces of medical equipment. We always buy state-of-the-art equipment, which is now working in almost every Polish hospital, since our Orchestra is increasingly “playing” for children and adults alike. This guidebook brings together the most important facts, figures, and achievements of the GOCC. If you have ever supported the work of our Foundation, we thank you very much. From the very beginning, we have acted very transparently, to the great benefit of Polish society. It is important that the Orchestra “plays” not only in Poland, but also around the world, and this, along with the sums collected, these always being enormous, is probably our greatest success. We strive to unite everyone in a common cause and, regardless of the colours of our thoughts, beliefs, or religion, we can act together. And “together” is our biggest win! Remember that we are “playing” all year round. We hope this guidebook will tell you more about our mission and the opportunities to work with us beyond the Grand Finale fundraiser. On behalf of the whole Foundation and me, I wish you a good time for making your dreams and ideas for life come true. I also wish you good health, a reason to smile every day, and a sense of serenity. Thank you for being with us, because in this way you are also there for those who need your support.
Jurek Owsiak, founder and chairman of the board of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation
In 31 Grand Finales we have raised over PLN 2 billion (EUR 449,438,202) and donated 71,500 medical devices* in aid of public health care in Poland. Your contribution made it possible. Thank you for your support!
* as of November 2023
4
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 2 billion. We purchased 71,500 pieces of medical equipment such as CT scanners, incubators, surgery and rehabilitation equipment, medical devices for oncology wards, 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 the top-quality medical care. The charity has initiated, financed, and helped run eight medical projects, which systematically transform Polish medicine. The GOCC Foundation 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.
5
Get to know us! Jurek Owsiak is the founder, chairman of the board of the Foundation and the longest-serving volunteer of the charity.
Other members of the board are: Professor Bohdan Maruszewski, M.D. - vice-chairman of the board Lidia Niedźwiedzka-Owsiak - member of the board, Medical Section Director Professor Piotr Burczyński, M.D. - member of the board
Supervisory board Professor Andrzej Budaj Irena Eris, PhD Fr. Arkadiusz Nowak Professor Bogumiła Milewska-Bobula Professor Michał Matysiak
We are the most trustworthy organisation in Poland According to 2021 IQS research, 84 % of Poles trust our charity. We score the highest result out of all non-governmental organisations in the country. Our Foundation is associated with such qualities 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. To learn more about the Orchestra, visit our website: en.wosp.org.pl!
6
7
Our awards We have been honoured to receive – among many others: Top Marka Award in the ‘’Festivals” category Freedom of Speech Medal in the “Citizen” category for Lidia Niedźwiedzka-Owsiak and Jerzy Owsiak 1 Architect of Sustainable Development – United Nations – for Jerzy Owsiak 2 European Citizen’s Prize established by the European Parliament 3 Two nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize 4 Polish Medical Society Award 5 Effie Awards 6 Golden Paperclip Award Honorary Award of Polish Cardiothoracic Surgeon Association 7 European Institute of Culture and Media Award – POLONICUS Pearls of Medicine 8 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 Award of the Kyoto-Kraków Foundation by Andrzej Wajda and Krystyna Zachwatowicz for outstanding activity in the spirit of social solidarity 9 Father Tischner’s Prize for Jerzy and Lidia Owsiak Man of the Year Special Award presented by the editor-in-chief of Gazeta Wyborcza The special award of the Polish Business Roundtable named after Jan Wejchert Golden Pearl 2019 for the board game „First Aid”, awarded by Świat Zabawek, Gier Planszowych i Książek The main prize for the board game „First Aid”, awarded by the Committee for the Protection of Children’s Rights 5 Award for work for the public benefit given to Jurek Owsiak by the Polish Business Club Trustworthy Brand – in category of Foundations and NGOs Child-friendly Idea Award in the Best Hit for Child competition „Mamo, To Ja”
3
6
4 1
9
7
8
2
About the Grand Finale fundraiser The 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. 1,700 Collection Centres organise the work of 120,000 volunteers. Our charitable Orchestra ‘’plays” across the world: in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the UAE, across Europe, 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 public hospitals and purchase modern medical equipment. Benefactors can support the effort by putting money in the Collection Boxes, setting up an eCollection Box, 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. The 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 – the so called “Light to the Sky”, that is sending a special signal to the good angels, and stands for a symbol of hope.
8
The 32nd Grand Finale The main theme of the 32nd Grand Finale is ‘’Post-pandemic lungs. We play for kids and adults alike!”. The fundraiser will be dedicated to the purchase of equipment for diagnosis, monitoring, and rehabilitation of pulmonary diseases among the patients of all ages. The Foundation aims to support all the 64 respiratory units across Poland. The GOCC Foundation decided on the aim of the upcoming fundraiser after consulting the current medical challenges in the country with the Polish Society of Paediatric Pulmonology. Experts drew attention to the very serious post-pandemic health issues among children and adults. Additionally, the air quality in Poland is worsening, which is causing an increase in the number of people affected by lung diseases. The Foundation would also like to offer its support to the 1,800 patients with cystic fibrosis living in Poland. ‘’As a representative of the community of pulmonologists working in our country, I can say that we are extremely grateful to the Foundation for taking up this challenge. I think that the problem of lung diseases is somewhat underestimated in Poland. Modern medicine cannot function without modern diagnostic equipment to monitor diseases, but also to perform certain endobronchial procedures, for example. Looking back at the previous editions of the GOCC Grand Finales, we know for a fact that the Foundation purchases modern and innovative equipment. For this reason, once again, we would like to express our gratitude. We believe that, thanks to this Grand Finale fundraiser and the equipment we hope to receive, the level of care for patients with lung diseases in Poland will be elevated” said Professor Katarzyna Krenke, President of the Polish Society of Paediatric Pulmonology
9
10
Volounteers 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.
11
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, and 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!
International Collection Centre 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 to Dubai, UAE. 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 too! Out of 1,700 Collection Centres registered annually, there are almost 100 working abroad.
12
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, the 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 initiative helps – a friendly venue or a great catering company which is ready to offer their services free of charge can help our volunteers to go that extra mile to create a fantastic fundraiser for all community to enjoy!
13
On the day of the Grand Finale 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! Fi
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! Another exciting form of donation is taking part in online auctions held at the Allegro bidding platform. About 200,000 auctions appear on the portal during the Grand Finale. The auctions of the 31st Grand Finale ended with a record amount of PLN 27,681,732.01. In the course of our 23-year-long collaboration with Allegro, we managed to collect almost PLN 178 million for the support of our annual collections’ aims.
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, you 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 1.5 % 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.
14
15
Our Finances and Accountability Fundraising practices Our main fundraising activity is the annual, one-day public charitable collection. 120,000 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 1.5 % of their tax return in aid of our mission. The money raised at the Grand Finale go towards the purchase of medical equipment for a 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 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 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. According to our most recent financial statement from 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.
16
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 organise Open Tenders, when 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.
17
Our medical initiatives en.wosp.org.pl/medycyna/programy
Nationwide Programme for Treatment and Prevention 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 all hospitals in Poland with ophthalmoscopes (devices used to see inside the fundus of the eye) and laser devices. r
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 hearing tests for over 7,364,803* new-born babies! *until October 2023
18
Nationwide Programme for Non-invasive Respiratory Support of New-borns 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 328 neonatal wards in Poland, we bought 932 devices to overhaul the system of breathing support in neonatal care in Poland!
Nationwide Programme for Early Cancer Diagnosis in Children 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 an advanced 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.
19
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 devices such as Taylor Spatial Frames, and Modular Rail System sets. Our latest purchase under the programme from October 2023 is a gait diagnosis and training system for an orthopaedic hospital in Poznań.
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 advanced ultrasound systems for 22 Rheumatology Centres. We have also donated low-field MRI scanners to the three leading treatment centres. Overall, we donated 50 devices. We also aim to raise awareness and educate parents and doctors about children’s rheumatic disease symptoms and treatment.
20
Nationwide Programme for Personal Insulin Pump Treatment of Pregnant Women with Diabetes We launched this initiative in 2004. Throughout the 19 years, we have purchased nearly 2,000 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 We terminated this programme in 2008 when a state-run medical programme replaced our initiative. Our charity purchased 2,978 individual insulin pumps for children aged 0-10 which gave little patients a chance for a simpler and more active life despite diabetes.
21
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 Neonatal surgery Paediatric Gastroenterology Paediatrics Neonatology Paediatric traumatology & orthopaedic surgery Paediatric Otorhinolaryngology, audiology and Phoniatrics Paediatric Urology Paediatric Diabetology Paediatric Ophthalmology Paediatric pulmonology Paediatric rheumatology Geriatrics Children’s and young adults’ psychiatric care
22
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 five 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 875 wheelchairs 229 patient lifts 286 bath chairs
Children’s and young people’s mental health services The conditions at facilities where children and young people can receive help with mental health issues 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, in 2018, 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 8,764,075.23 (over EUR 1,919,253). Overall, we bought 1,744 pieces of equipment and furniture. 34 wards for children and young adults received the following: 798 hospital beds (equipped in mattresses and two sets of bed linen) 510 comfy seats for therapy rooms 37 wards for children and young adults received the following: 190 specialised psychological tests used to diagnose 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 We actively participate in the development of solutions for mental health services for children and young adults. In March 2023, we participated in a debate held by the Senate of the Republic of Poland that addressed the challenges of psychiatry. In May 2023, we established a cooperation with the SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, the SWPS Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Clinic, and RESQL. The Great Orchestra has agreed to fund the implementation of and access to the RESQL mobile app. This app is designed to assist schools in addressing peer violence and promoting mental health among young people.
23
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 5,443 recliners and chairs as well as 323 nursing chairs which will serve parents staying with their children in hospitals across the country. 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!
We help individuals with disabilities Even though our main focus is on purchasing medical equipment for Polish hospitals, we could not stay indifferent to the needs of individuals. Therefore, we decided to finance the purchase of rehabilitation equipment for children and young adults (under 26 years of age) with disabilities. Since 2005 we purchased the necessary equipment for 7,928 children for PLN 32 million. Each year we consider hundreds of individuals’ requests to make sure the equipment is delivered to those who most need it. In 2023 alone, we bought the equipment for 299 individuals for PLN 1,225,870.60*. *until October 2023
24
We want to beat sepsis The 31st Grand Finale fundraiser’s main objective was the fight against sepsis. The fundraiser raised a total of PLN 243,259,389.25 (equivalent to EUR 52,028,528.98 based on the exchange rate of 31 March 2023). Within one year, we successfully conducted two Open Tenders and accomplished the scheduled procurement of medical equipment for microbiology laboratories. We purchased a total of 504 devices* to equip 208 labs across 151 cities in Poland. Why sepsis? Our immune system’s erratic response to the infection may result in a rapid worsening of the patient’s condition. Therefore, it is crucial to make right decisions quickly and administer an effective therapy as soon as possible, ideally within the first hour after the diagnosis. Sepsis – key facts Is sepsis contagious or infectious? No. You can contract a particular microorganism, and this infection could potentially result in sepsis. Approximately every 3 seconds, someone in the world dies from sepsis. Sepsis can occur at any age. The most vulnerable are the extreme age groups - the youngest and the oldest. Immune disorders are a risk factor for sepsis, but sepsis may also occur in previously perfectly healthy people. Most (up to 80%) cases of sepsis start outside the hospital. Sepsis can be challenging to diagnose due to the lack of typical clinical symptoms. Any delay in diagnosis can significantly increase mortality rates, highlighting the importance of timely recognition and treatment. It’s crucial to remember that every hour matters in sepsis. In October 2023, the Foundation organized an outdoor campaign to raise awareness in society about the fight against sepsis and the actions we have taken to address this issue. The billboards with the message ”Poles! Let’s beat the evil! We will win with sepsis!” were displayed in 1,840 locations across the country. *until October 2023
25
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.
26
Charitable run Since 2007, every year we hold a charitable race which helps us raise awareness and money for the purchase of personal insulin pumps for pregnant women with diabetes. The main event takes place in Warsaw, where 5,000 runners participate in a 5K race. Money raised from the sale of starter packs goes towards the purchase of personal insulin pumps. The idea of the charitable run held by the GOCC Foundation in Warsaw gained tremendous popularity. The race is now also organised in a virtual form allowing hundreds of people from all around the world to participate. During the 31st Grand Finale, more than 11,000 people from 19 different countries took part in the event. In total, all the runners covered a distance of 56,000 km. In 2023, for the first time in the history of the Great Orchestra, we also organised the summer edition of the “Get Even with Diabetes” Run during the 29th Pol’and’Rock Festival. 3,250 festival participants, all wearing characteristic orange T-shirts, covered a distance of more than 3 km. Thanks to the “Get Even with Diabetes” Run editions organized by the Orchestra from 2014 to 2022, the Foundation was able to purchase 272 insulin pumps specifically for pregnant women with diabetes. We plan to buy next 76 insulin pumps thanks to the money raised during the latest edition of the run. Learn more about the initiative at en.wosp.org.pl/final/bieg.
27
CPR for Schools 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 (i.e. 91% of all the schools in the country) participate in the programme 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. Break the Record in a Simultaneous CPR session is a nationwide event, held in aid of World Restart a Heart Day on 16 October. 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!
28
Ambulances purchased by the GOCC Foundation Our charity donated 39 ambulances to hospitals across the country. 3 out of these ambulances were purchased for funds raised during the Great Football Games held in the years 2017-2019.
Upon the request of the Kharkiv ambulance station, the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation purchased a fully-equipped type B ambulance. The purchase of the ambulance and its equipment was made possible thanks to the generosity of the UPS Company and a tennis player Hubert Hurkacz’s initiative #acesforaid. The total value of the ambulance was PLN 684,972.49.
29
Fighting crises We aim to go far beyond supporting medicine in Poland, which is why over the years we have engaged in numerous humanitarian and medical initiatives. After the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we decided to address the shortage of medical equipment, especially regarding protective equipment for frontline medical staff. Within our emergency initiative to fight the pandemic, we purchased PLN 70,000 worth of equipment. In November 2021, we opened the Humanitarian Aid Point in Michałowo in response to the dramatic situation at the Polish-Belarusian border. For 85 days, the Humanitarian Aid Point supported volunteers and activists who were working to assist refugees stranded in the forests of the Polish-Belarussian border zone. During this time, they provided 17,000 food supplies, over 40,000 medical items, more than 2,500 clothing items (including shoes), and over 1,500 camping items. We also took immediate action after Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine and purchased medical equipment for our neighbours. We bought devices and disposables for Ukrainian hospitals as well as Polish medical facilities admitting refugees. The action ended in the spring of 2023 when we provided the last delivery of medical equipment to Ukraine on 16 June. We purchased – among others - heart monitors, ventilators, anaesthetic machines, oxygen concentrators, pulse oximeters, USG, ECG, professional first aid kits, and delivered wheelchairs. By June 2023, we pledged over PLN 25,000,000 to aid Ukraine. This amount covered not only the cost of buying medical equipment, but also the operation of two humanitarian aid stations at the Warsaw East railway station and the Shegini border crossing. In February 2023, together with Castorama Poland, we realised aid for the victims of the earthquake in Turkey. We delivered 1,396 units of convectors and heaters to the country facing the disaster.
30
Other initiatives and humanitarian actions The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation always responds to humanitarian crises to support those in need. Learn more about our charity’s missions! 1997 - 156 humanitarian aid transports for victims of floods in Poland 1999 - convoy with medical supplies for Albanian refugees 2005 - humanitarian aid for victims of the tsunami in Sri Lanka 2006 - equipment for 5 search and rescue groups 2010 - STOP FLOODS action in Poland 2012 - 100 Braille typewriters for school in Rwanda 2017 - equipment for 178 volunteer firefighting units in Poland 2020 - PLN 70 000 000 worth of medical equipment for COVID-19 relief 2021 - launch of the Humanitarian Aid Point in Michałowo, on the Polish-Belarussian border 2022 - PLN 25 million worth of equipment and disposable materials for Ukraine 2023 - support for the earthquake victims in Turkey
31
Peace Patrol Members of Peace Patrol are volunteers trained in first aid and event health & safety. Peace Patrol volunteers participate in two significant events – the Grand Finale charitable fundraiser and Pol’and’Rock Festival - but they take part in different activities! 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.
32
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 65 different places named after the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation in Poland and in Europe: 27 roundabouts, 13 hospital wards, 8 squares, 7 bridges, 4 murals, 2 educational facilities, a board, a park, a street and a statue. Cities with the GOCC landmarks: Barczewo, Biała Podlaska, Bochnia, Bydgoszcz, Chełm, Ciechanów, Cieszyn, Darłowo, Dzierżoniów, Dziwnów, Elbląg, Gdańsk, Gorzów Wielkopolski, Gniezno, Gostyń, Gryfice, Haga, Jabłonowo Pomorskie, Jastrzębie-Zdrój, Jaworzno, Jelenia Góra, Katowice, Kielce, Kołobrzeg, Konin, Kostrzyn nad Odrą, Kórnik, Kraków, Lublin, Łódź, Mińsk Mazowiecki, Oleśnica, Opole, Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, Ostróda, Ostrów, Wielkopolski, Piotrków Trybunalski, Poznań, Rawicz, Resko, Rokietnica, Rzeszów, Skarżysko-Kamienna, Słubice, Sosnowiec, Szczecinek, Trzcianka, Warszawa, Włocławek, Wrocław, Zabrze, Zduńska Wola, Zielona Góra, Zielonki-Parcela, Żory You may find the detailed list at en.wosp.org.pl/fundacja/historia/miejsca-im-wosp
33
29. Pol’and’Rock Festival 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 1995 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 two festival stages. We also make sure to promote cultural, educational, and social awareness campaigns. The festival hosts dozens of 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.
34
The Most Beautiful Festival in the World 2022 & 2023
Pol’and’Rock Festival was honoured with the Top Marka Award [Eng. “Top Brand”] in the category of festivals – according to Press and PSMM The Pol’and’Rock Festival is, above all, a great musical adventure, during which the sounds of rock’n’roll (but not only!) release a message and an appeal for friendship, love, and peace in the ether. For the second time, the 29th edition of the festival was held at the former Czaplinek-Broczyno Airport in the picturesque West Pomeranian Voivodeship between 3-5 August 2023. 43 artists graced two music stages, preparing a feast of 42,5 hours of music. There were a series of meetings with amazing people and workshops held as part of the Academy of the Finest of Arts. A great number of NGOs organised their stands. The event featured performances by Spin Doctors, Apollo 440, Lady Pank, Brodka, Napalm Death, Carpenter Brut, Biohazard, LemON, and Krzysztof Zalewski, among others. The line-up traditionally included the winners of the Golden Spinning Top (our audience’s award), Kwiat Jabłoni and Pull The Wire, as well as of the Emerging Bands Competition. Out of more than 700 bands that participated in the Emerging Bands Competition, only 8 have won tickets to play at the Most Beautiful Festival in the World. These bands were: .bHP, Etna Kontrabande, Jagoda Kret, Mùlk, Wojtek Szumański, DOCTOR VICTOR from Czechia, Rootstone from the UK, and Uuhai from Mongolia. The spirit of love and peace reached far beyond the grounds of Czaplinek-Broczyno Airfield through online live streams from our concerts and the AFA meetings. Those festival goers who could not be with us physically were following us online even from the most distant corners of the globe, i.a. Ukraine, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Ireland, Brazil, Indonesia, Australia, Mexico, Canada, the USA, Japan, Argentina, Chile, Iceland, the Philippines, Peru, Malaysia, the Ivory Coast or Morocco! The jubilee 30th edition of Pol’and’Rock Festival will be held between 1-3 August 2024. We will meet again at the former Czaplinek-Broczyno Airport.
Love! Friendship! Music!
35
OUR MEDIA Follow our KręciołaTV YouTube channel for the latest updates about our charity and live music videos from Pol’and’Rock Festival and behind-the-scenes interviews with the stars. There are almost 100 concerts available to watch for FREE on our YouTube channel! In total, you have already watched tens of millions of hours of the most colourful festival memories on the KręciołaTV channel! Now you may also marvel at the 4K quality and relish the Festival’s atmosphere in the privacy of your own home! YouTube.com/kreciolatv Look for @kreciolatv online!
36
Pol’and’Rock Radio Boasting the biggest collection of music recorded live, our festival radio is the best destination for rock music lovers from every corner of the world! Our radio will keep you company during our summer joyful gathering at Pol’and’Rock Festival, adding to the lively atmosphere at the festival field! You can also find interviews and festival playlists at our Pol’and’Rock Spotify channel!
Złoty Melon records Złoty Melon Company [Eng. Golden Melon Company], in which the GOCC Foundation holds 100% shares, is the executive producer of Pol’and’Rock Festivals and Grand Finales, as well as a publisher of Polish rock music live records. All publications of Złoty Melon are characterized by a high-quality sound, assembly and unique design. Graphic designs of each cover are created by a team of graphic designers led by Jurek Owsiak. Złoty Melon has released over 80 records so far - it is the largest collection of live music records on the Polish market. One of the greatest successes of Złoty Melon is the record of the legendary Polish bands – TABU from their concert of 2014 or Majka Jeżowska from her concert of 2019.
37
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 battling coronavirus and engaging in other charitable projects.
How much money have you raised in aid of Polish medicine? We have raised over PLN 2 billion (EUR 449,438,202)! We bought and donated 71,500 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 in 1993 when the first Grand Finale fundraiser took place. No, we are not an orchestra, but music is an integral part of our activities. We love music, and we want everyone to raise funds and have fun at the same time. We ”play” so that children have access to the top-class medical equipment.
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. We are based 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. He was also appointed 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 too. What is the Grand Finale, and when does it take place? Grand Finale is our charitable fundraiser, and it takes place on one day, traditionally on Sunday, in January. Our fundraiser
38
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 to join our community of volunteers and take part in the fundraiser. It’s always fun!
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 are involved in the Grand Finale? 120,000 volunteers support us across the globe! Since the beginning of our work, we estimate that 3,000,000 activists 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 1,700 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 organised by our charity is the biggest non-commercial open-air Festival in Europe – Pol’and’Rock Festival, formerly known as Woodstock Festival Poland. In 2023, our festival was once again held under the open skies in a brand new, picturesque location in Czaplinek-Broczyno Airfield in western Poland.
Is your Festival free?
Yes, it is the biggest free open-air music festival in Europe!
Find out more about us at en.wosp.org.pl and en.polandrockfestival.pl
39
40
41
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 szkolenia@szadowomlyn.pl www.facebook.com/szadowomlyn www.szadowomlyn.pl
photos by: 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, Anna Michałowska, Radek Raszka, Małgorzata Telega, Nikola Naus, Marcin Garczyński, Aleksandra Rutkowska, Artur Ochocki, Aleksandra Kluszczyńska, Bartek Kochanowski, Celina Bojakowska
42
43