Charity, along with volunteerism and philanthropy, fosters strong social bonds and contributes to the creation of inclusive, resilient societies.

It can mitigate the devastating effects of humanitarian crises, supplement public services in healthcare, education, housing, and child protection, and support advancements in culture, science, sports, and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

Moreover, charity champions the rights of marginalized and underprivileged groups and promotes human compassion in conflict situations.

What global impact does charity truly have? How can even a small act contribute to a larger cause?

The United Nations recognizes civic engagement as a crucial factor in development and change. But how does it achieve this?

First things first, it raises awareness about how difficult every nation’s, social group’s or personal challenges are, and pushes for collective action in global issues.

Moreover, it enhances the trust among diverse groups and builds social capital while additionally eliminating societal and cultural barriers, together creating cohesion.

Lastly, it builds resilience through community action and enhances the sense of responsibility for one's community.

Today, humanitarian aid remains a cornerstone of modern charity work, as outlined in the United Nations Charter's goal of global cooperation.

In recent years, our focus has been on Ukraine, where war-torn communities rely heavily on such assistance.

While governments provide financial and military support, private organizations and NGOs play a critical role in delivering essential humanitarian supplies and services.

This aid is not only vital for the survival of Ukrainian civilians but also helps to maintain their morale and continue their education.

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Linsenhoff Foundation has been committed to aiding the Butcha Lyceum No. 3, a comprehensive school devastated during the occupation.

The school's roof, windows, and walls were severely damaged, classrooms were ransacked, and computers and teaching materials were destroyed.

Working in conjunction with local partners, we managed to renovate the aula and build shelters so children could participate in the education process safely.

Thanks to these efforts, students can return to their classrooms this Autumn.

"Through unwavering determination and a shared commitment to providing children with not only education but also safety, we have made progress," states Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff.

Charity extends beyond monetary donations. It encompasses social work and raising awareness about pressing issues, actively working toward solutions.

Our supported ZuBaKa project exemplifies this approach.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has led to a surge in integration classes in Frankfurt, accommodating refugee children. ZuBaKa's 'Arriving in School and the City of Frankfurt' initiative assists these newly arrived students in adapting to their educational and social environments.

This project is one of many social work examples.

Since 2014, the Linsenhoff Foundation has been dedicated to supporting integration projects of individuals with refugee and migration backgrounds.

This support focuses on children, adolescents, and particularly girls.

As Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff emphasizes, 'We believe that young people, regardless of their origin or social circumstances, deserve the necessary resources to pursue their educational goals and become active members of society.

While we continue to support our existing projects, this year we're focusing on raising awareness and combating human trafficking, a crisis exacerbated by Russia's unjust invasion of Ukraine.

As of February 2024, nearly 6.5 million Ukrainians have fled their country, joining 3.7 million internally displaced persons.

Women and children, especially unaccompanied minors, are particularly vulnerable to sexual and labor exploitation, forced criminality, and begging.

UNICEF has assembled a team of international experts to assist frontline workers, including law enforcement, child protection authorities, and NGOs, in protecting vulnerable children from trafficking.

As Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff states, 'Charity is about helping in any way we can.' We're proud to join this important cause.

By raising awareness, fostering social cohesion, and supporting humanitarian efforts, charity plays a vital role in addressing global challenges and building a more equitable and just society.

As individuals, organizations, and communities, we can all contribute to this noble cause, whether through monetary donations, volunteerism, or simply by extending a helping hand to those in need.