In a world characterized by complex social challenges, collaboration between non-governmental organizations and companies has become increasingly important in addressing critical issues in society.
NGOs bring the experience of working in the field, direct contact with vulnerable people in extreme situations, passion, and compassion for fellow human beings, as well as the appropriate approach to social issues such as poverty, education, health, and the environment.

Companies bring financial resources, human resources, and project management expertise. Through collaboration, innovative solutions and effective resolutions are created for such problems.

"In the business world, success is not only measured in numbers, but also by the positive impact you have on the community in which you operate. The Save a Heart Association demonstrates with each action that solidarity and care for those in need are not only important values in society, but also opportunities to make real changes in the lives of the vulnerable."

"By financially and logistically supporting the projects carried out by the association, our corporate partners demonstrate their commitment and responsibility to the community in which they operate. In this way, corporations or entrepreneurs at the beginning of their journey choose to actively contribute to improving the quality of life for those in need and at the same time develop a strong reputation as responsible social partners."

Marinela Doboșeru is the fundraising manager at the Save a Heart Association, the person who brings miracles to life. Marinela is the link between the dramatic cases of children on the brink of life and death and companies with financial power capable of lending a helping hand. Through the CSR partnerships carried out this year alone, the Save a Heart Association has managed to save the lives of dozens of children and alleviate the suffering of families facing difficult trials.

Over the years, dozens of companies, many in the medical, pharmaceutical, and insurance fields, have joined forces to support children in unprecedented medical situations. In the 12 years of the association's activity, hundreds of children have received a chance for life-saving treatments abroad.

"I am also a mother and I know what it means to have a sick child, even if it's just a simple cold... I can only imagine the despair and helplessness felt by the parents we have chosen to support. My previous experience in a multinational company helped me understand the values and needs of business people. Thus, I meet them with strategies that align with their CSR objectives."

"I really wanted to find a way to bring these two worlds together and contribute to saving innocent souls. Fundraising in Romania is both exciting and challenging. Each company has its own values and goals, finding those that align with our mission was a complex but essential process. As proof, the companies that joined us in one project have stayed with us for the next ones."

Collaboration between NGOs and companies is essential for a healthy society. These partnerships bring benefits to those in need as well as to companies, strengthening the relationship between the non-profit sector and the business environment in a joint effort to make the world a better place.

"You surely know the story of Ecaterina Dima, the 12-year-old daughter of Father Nicolae Dima from Bucharest, who spent over a month in a deep coma due to a tumor found in her head. It was one of the most serious cases taken care of by the Save a Heart community."

"We had to raise a colossal amount: 200,000 euros. 3,667 people donated from their little, hoping that Ecaterina would wake up. We received 18,014 donations via SMS, 59,061 euros through the association's online platform, and signed sponsorship contracts with no less than 20 companies. They are the ones who actually saved Ecaterina."

In addition to the tax benefits - many CSR projects are deductible - and the image benefits - by improving the perception of the brand, strengthening the trust of customers and business partners in the services and products offered - companies gain more and more in terms of trust and loyalty from employees when they get involved in social projects.

"Another touching case, where social involvement was remarkable, was that of Ana Ivănescu, the daughter of Roxana Ciuhulescu, diagnosed with severe scoliosis at only 15 years old. In a record time - just 8 calendar days - we managed to raise the necessary amount: 21,500 euros. The life-saving surgery was made possible with the support and generosity of 672 donors, ordinary people and companies. Among the partners who contributed significantly to this success was a Romanian insurance company."

"In a demonstration of solidarity and compassion, the insurance company contributed 5,000 euros. For us, it was another proof that when we join forces, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need. Such acts of generosity show the importance of corporate involvement in the community and their ability to make a significant change in the lives of those in need."

The power of example is essential, and now it is even easier to join a humanitarian cause. Everything is just a click away. To meet the needs of companies that want to support a specific humanitarian cause, the Save a Heart Association has launched a unique system in Romania, with digital signatures for sponsorship contracts.

"Current trends include increasing digitalization, collaborations with social impact, promoting circular and sustainable donations. As a fundraising manager, we must keep up with these trends and adapt our future strategies to meet the requirements of companies and the communities we serve."

Collaborating with the Save a Heart Association is not just an act of charity, but also an opportunity to invest in a better future for the community and develop a brand with solid values and authenticity.