Since then, it has been coordinating aid campaigns, pooling resources, organising transport - and above all: maintaining direct, friendly contact with our Rotary partners in Ukraine.
"Within a few days of the outbreak of war, we established a functioning structure in the 1920 district. What followed was not chaos, but lived solidarity and Rotary determination," recalls Felix Spitzer, UA Relief Coordinator and driving force behind the relief movement.
Because Rotary is more than just a global network. It is a community of values, driven by compassion, drive and a deep desire to take responsibility. And in this time of need, this spirit has become more tangible than ever - in keeping with our motto: Service above Self.
Coordination, drive and heart
What began with spontaneous Zoom meetings developed into a professional support system within a very short space of time. A "Hub of Help" was established in Vöcklabruck, which served as a logistical hub for donations in kind. Thanks to our Rotary connections, we were able to open up secure transport routes and organise aid deliveries directly to Ukraine.
The strategy was clear and effective: humanitarian aid based on three pillars - needs-based fundraising, efficient logistics and direct support on the ground. In this way, aid was brought to where it was really needed. Without detours. Without loss. With a clear focus on humanity - and with the Rotarian guiding principle as our daily motivation: Service above Self.
Youth camps - places of peace in the midst of horror
A particularly moving sign of this help are the Rotary Youth Camps, which were launched in 2022 - supported by the vision of many clubs. In 2025, this heartfelt project will be organised for the third time.
"For over 100 children and young people from Ukraine, these camps have become places of peace - far away from war and insecurity. With sport, games, creativity and loving care, we were able to give them back a piece of their childhood. Many of the friendships formed there still exist today," says Felix Spitzer, the driving force behind Ukraine Hilfe!
These camps are a shining example of how Rotary not only helps, but also gives real hope - in a sustainable and deeply touching way.
Numbers that tell stories
Behind the many measures are impressive figures - and yet in reality they are stories of courage, compassion and drive:
- Almost 30 lorries with medical supplies, food, hygiene goods
- Over 650,000 euros in cash donations
- Total aid volume of around 2 million euros, including donations in kind
Whether rescue vehicles, emergency generators, medicines or housing for refugees - all of this was made possible by the dedicated cooperation of clubs, individuals and sponsors. Every contribution was a piece of hope. Every euro meant life, warmth and security.
Shaping the future - with hope and responsibility
The first stage was a sprint. But what lies ahead is a marathon. Reconstruction in Ukraine, supporting refugees, integration, promoting peace projects - all of this requires perseverance, vision and Rotary determination.
Rotary will continue along this path: with new projects, with in-depth youth work, with the targeted integration of Ukrainian friends into our clubs. Because those who give hope take responsibility - for today, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow.
Rotarian friendship - the supporting foundation
What remains in the end goes far beyond aid supplies and numbers. It is the Rotarian friendship that has supported this extraordinary commitment. It has built bridges where others saw boundaries. It has connected, supported, moved - and comforted.
Our aid to Ukraine is more than just a sign of solidarity. It is an expression of how Rotarians see themselves, says Felix Spitzer: "Every person counts. Every action has an effect. Every spark of hope changes the world. And it is a living expression of our motto: Service above Self - selfless service as an attitude and a mission.
