“I wouldn’t have such a beautiful life among coal and mountains anywhere else,” says Marcela Krplová, who is in the marketing and accounting business and is hired by companies as a crisis manager for short-term projects. She is a founding member of the Madleine Society, which aims, among other things, to financially support disadvantaged children and help them apply their efforts and talents.
How do you think the combination of philanthropy and entrepreneurship are related?
Philanthropy and entrepreneurship are two seemingly different worlds united by one goal: to provide sustainable aid and support for a better society. Businesses are no longer seen only as profit-making entities, but precisely as key players in promoting positive change or trends. Philanthropy, seen initially as a purely philanthropic activity, is increasingly finding its place within team morale and employee satisfaction.
One of our project partners, SATUM CZECH s.r.o., decided to turn every kilometre run into funds for children’s homes. They then participate in a benefit concert and hand over the donations there. We already assume that the amount will be close to CZK 100,000. Corporate support for children’s homes increases the company’s credibility in the eyes of customers, employees, and partners. It shows that the company has a clear social vision and strives to fulfil its social responsibility. On behalf of the children, I am really pleased that we have more companies like this.
Why children’s homes?
One of the mottos I inherit generationally is “What you give to life, you get from it”. And perhaps each of us enjoys giving more. Maybe because I had some rough times as a child, maybe because I live near a children’s home, maybe because children alone have no chance to make a difference, I decided to direct my philanthropy towards children and 20 years ago, I founded the Madleine Society and the Children to Children project.
Supporting children’s homes is not only about providing funds, but also about building bridges of hope and love for those who need it most. Our decision to focus on this area reflects our belief in the values of solidarity, social responsibility, and care for our future generations. We are committed to continuing our journey and positively impacting the lives of those who are forced to spend their childhood days at a children’s home. And, at the same time, to show that every child deserves a chance for a happy and safe life.
In retrospect, was it the right choice to focus your help on children?
Absolutely! The meetings in homes, at concerts, and the stories that the children tell have thoroughly grounded us many times. There are tough times even in business, but this does not compare. Basically, those corporate troubles are nothing compared to the kids’ anxiety, humiliation, beatings, living with alcoholics, and unfulfilled hopes. It is a good thing there are children’s homes that give them a second chance.
How is the year of celebration going?
The Madleine Society is celebrating its twentieth anniversary year, and the celebrations will reach their peak in December when six benefit concerts Children to Children are being held. These concerts are not only a musical experience but also present a significant opportunity to raise funds for children’s homes. A portion of the admission fee, the total proceeds from the sale of Hope calendars made by the children, and contributions from corporate donors go to the public fundraiser. The fundraising banner account is open, and should there be another donor, its number is 327621706/0300; visit www.madleine.cz to find out all the essentials.
Thank you for the interview.
