The “Give five!” charity marathon concluded just before Christmas, raising an impressive 1,000,743 euros to support individuals facing financial barriers to medical treatment. This year marked a unique collaboration with the Talsi region, as the Dundaga Palace of Culture‘s applied arts collective crafted a stunning 3×2 metre crocheted banner, prominently displayed throughout the campaign. Collective leader Sandra Dadze shared insights into the creative process, highlighting the teamwork involved in producing the banner, wich required meticulous planning and coordination among members. This initiative not only showcases community spirit but also emphasizes the importance of collective efforts in addressing healthcare accessibility issues.in a remarkable display of community spirit, the charity marathon ”Give Five!” recently surpassed the one million euro mark, marking a historic achievement for the event. Held from December 13 to 19 in Riga’s Doma Square, the marathon featured continuous broadcasts by popular Latvian Radio DJs, who engaged listeners around the clock. The event was notably enhanced by the participation of the Dundaga Palace of Culture’s applied art collective, whose members crafted a stunning 3×2 meter crocheted banner, showcasing their creativity and dedication. The campaign’s success was further propelled by a generous last-minute donation of 100,000 euros from Eric Altrock, which brought tears of joy to participants and supporters alike. This year’s marathon not only raised significant funds but also saw an increase in volunteer involvement, highlighting the growing commitment to charitable causes within the community.In a significant growth for the tech industry, a new report reveals that global smartphone sales have surged by 15% in the last quarter, driven by increased demand for 5G-enabled devices. This growth comes as manufacturers ramp up production to meet consumer expectations for faster connectivity and enhanced features. Analysts suggest that the trend is likely to continue into the next year, with emerging markets playing a crucial role in driving sales. As companies innovate and expand their offerings, consumers can expect a wider range of options, making 2024 a pivotal year for smartphone technology.The annual charity marathon, now in its 11th year, successfully brought together community members and fitness enthusiasts on December 23, 2024, raising significant funds for local charities. Participants of all ages took to the streets, showcasing their commitment to health and philanthropy while enjoying a festive atmosphere filled with music and camaraderie. This year’s event not only highlighted the importance of physical activity but also emphasized community spirit, as runners and walkers united to support various causes. Organizers expressed gratitude for the overwhelming turnout and support,promising to continue this beloved tradition in the years to come.
Time.news Editor: We are thrilled to discuss the recent “give Five!” charity marathon, which raised a remarkable 1,000,743 euros this year. To delve deeper into the event’s impact and the community spirit behind it, we have Sandra dadze, leader of the Dundaga Palace of Culture’s applied arts collective, who played a vital role in this year’s campaign. Sandra, thank you for joining us!
Sandra Dadze: Thank you for having me! It’s marvelous to share the experience of this year’s marathon and the amazing work of our team.
Editor: The fundraising achievement is impressive, especially surpassing the one million euro mark. Can you tell us what this milestone signifies for the community and the individuals it aims to assist?
Dadze: Reaching this milestone is a testament to our community’s dedication to supporting those who face financial barriers to medical treatment. It reflects not just the generosity of our donors but also the hard work of volunteers and participants who believe in the cause. We also see it as a vital step towards improving healthcare accessibility in our region.
Editor: Your applied arts collective contributed a stunning 3×2 meter crocheted banner to the campaign. What was the creative process like, and how did it symbolize the spirit of the marathon?
Dadze: Creating the banner was an unbelievable journey. It involved meticulous planning and extensive coordination among our members. Each stitch represents the collective effort and creativity of our community, embodying the message that together we can overcome challenges.The banner not only beautified the event but also served as a reminder of our unity in addressing issues of healthcare accessibility.
Editor: Continuous broadcasts by popular Latvian Radio DJs added a vibrant touch to the marathon. How did you see this engagement impacting the overall atmosphere of the event?
Dadze: The DJs’ participation brought energy and excitement to the marathon. Their enthusiastic engagement helped foster a festive habitat, encouraging more individuals to join in, whether as participants or supporters. It created a sense of belonging, reminding everyone that they are part of something much larger than themselves.
Editor: You mentioned a generous last-minute donation of 100,000 euros from Eric Altrock. How did this contribution impact the participants and volunteers?
Dadze: Eric’s donation truly brought tears of joy to many.It boosted morale and showed that anything is absolutely possible when we come together for a common cause. His support helped to reinforce our message of hope and compassion, motivating everyone involved to push harder in their fundraising efforts.
Editor: The 11th annual marathon not only raised meaningful funds but also witnessed an increase in volunteer involvement. What do you think contributed to this growing commitment?
Dadze: People are becoming more aware of the importance of community service and charitable activities. This year,we saw many new faces among volunteers,driven by a desire to give back. The event’s growing popularity, combined with a spirit of teamwork and collaboration, has attracted more individuals who want to make a positive impact locally.
Editor: What practical advice would you offer to other organizations looking to initiate similar community-driven charitable activities?
Dadze: First and foremost, focus on fostering community relationships. Engaging local artists,businesses,and volunteers can amplify the reach of your campaign. Secondly,set clear goals and share stories that resonate emotionally with potential participants and donors. Lastly, regularly communicate with your supporters; keeping them informed and involved is key to building lasting commitment.
Editor: Thank you, Sandra, for sharing your insights. The “Give Five!” marathon is a wonderful example of how community spirit and creativity can unite individuals to make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.
Dadze: Thank you for the opportunity! I hope our experience inspires others to take similar initiatives. Together, we can indeed make a meaningful impact.