Each year, SPAR leaders gather in a different country for the International SPAR Congress to network, share best practice and exchange knowledge. For the first time last year, a donation was raised as part of the event for a local charity – an initiative that was continued at this year’s Congress in Slovenia. 

The 2019 Congress brought together 300 delegates from 46 countries, who with this donation, left behind a positive legacy. The charity chosen by hosts, SPAR Slovenia, was the Malči Belič Youth Care Centre, which celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. A sizeable donation of €45,000 was handed over to the Director of the organisation in the presence of the full delegation of SPAR Partners, all supportive of this initiative, which is in keeping with the SPAR Brand’s spirit of community involvement.

The Malči Belič Youth Care Centre is one of Slovenia’s biggest support homes for disadvantaged children. Its goal is to provide at-risk and homeless children with education and support, helping them live life to the fullest. Located just outside the centre of the capital city, Ljubljana, the 67 residents of the youth centre attend schools in the neighbourhood.

Speaking about the donation, Tobias Wasmuht, Managing Director of SPAR International said: “As a global yet local food retailer, SPAR strives to add value to the communities we serve. The ability to support this worthy cause in achieving its goals of a better life for all Slovenian children is one which is appreciated by the global SPAR family. We are pleased that through this initiative, we can leave a positive, long-lasting legacy, making a real difference to this youth centre in Ljubljana.”

Applauding SPAR’s support, France Rogelj, Director Malči Belič said: “We would like to sincerely thank you for your generous donation. With your help, our children will be able to pursue all of their interests. The donation will enable us to upgrade our learning programmes and participate in additional activities. SPAR is empowering our children to gain new knowledge, competencies and work habits. Most importantly, they will get the life they deserve. Thanks to SPAR’s generosity, Slovenian children will get a chance for a better tomorrow.”

Read more about last year’s legacy awarded to SOS Children’s Village in India at the 63rd International SPAR Congress.

source: SPAR International