International humanitarian action – vehicle donation to “Zvečanska”
Peugeot Boxer donated to Zvecanska
Rotary Clubs Lausanne-Ouest and Belgrade Terazije have joined forces to implement and carry out a significant international humanitarian initiative, providing support to the Zvecanska Center for the Protection of Infants, Children, and Youth in Belgrade.
As a result of this initiative, the institution has received a Peugeot BOXER—a specialized van adapted for the transportation of individuals with disabilities. The vehicle is equipped with two wheelchair spaces and an electric hydraulic ramp, significantly improving mobility and quality of life for its users. The total value of this donation amounts to €55,000.
International humanitarian action – vehicle for transporting children “Zvečanska”
The idea for this initiative originated from Mr. Zarko Stevic, past President of Rotary Club Lausanne Ouest. Thanks to the initiative and dedication of our honorary president, Mr. Dragoslav Andric, Rotary Club Belgrade Terazije became an equal partner in this international project. A devoted Rotarian with more than 30 years of experience, Mr. Andric played a key role in the realization of this project in Serbia. We take this opportunity to express our deep gratitude for his commitment and efforts.
In addition to our two Clubs (Lausanne-Ouest and Belgrade Terazije), the campaign was supported by numerous donors: Sava, Petar and Ljubica Petrovic, Branimir Ibrahimpasic, Vladimir Jaukovic (Serbian Business Club Lausanne – Archibald Rice), Ljiljana Stevic (Innerwheel Club Lausanne), Vukasin Dundic, Frank Wilper, Marko Ivic, Rotary Club Banja Luka from Republika Srpska and Rotary International Foundation (Switzerland). We owe special thanks to our charter president Igor Mijatovic, who established contact with the company KDD Auto. The company recognized the importance of this initiative and provided more favorable conditions for the purchase of vehicles.
For their efforts and dedication to the actions, we would like to thank: Zoran Milacic, Milos Stankovic and Kristina Jovic from Zvecanska, Aleksandar Nikolic from Euroimpex Autogroup (KDD auto), Vukasin Dundic for introducing us with Center Zvecanska and logistical support, Marko Stevic, who created the brochure for our action and provided photos and videos of our events, and the Ambassador of Switzerland Anne Lugon-Moulin for her support of our tribal action.
On Friday, March 21, 2025, a formal ceremony was held at the Institution for the Protection of Infants, Children, and Youth “Zvečanska” in Belgrade to mark the donation of a specialized vehicle as part of an international humanitarian initiative. This significant event was attended by members of Rotary Clubs Lausanne-Ouest, Belgrade Terazije, and Banja Luka, InnerWheel Clubs Belgrade and Lausanne, as well as numerous donors and friends of the initiative. The ceremony was further honored by the presence of H.E. the Ambassador of Switzerland to the Republic of Serbia, Mrs. Anne Lugon-Moulin, who expressed her support for this noble endeavor.
International humanitarian action – donation of a vehicle to “Zvečanska”
The President of the Rotary Club Lausanne, Christian Schaer, emphasized in his address the importance of this initiative in improving the living conditions of children. He extended special thanks to the Swiss Ambassador for her support of humanitarian initiatives. He also highlighted the key role of his friend Žarko Stević in the realization of the project. Schaer stressed that the minibus represents more than just a means of transport – it symbolizes a shared commitment to the well-being of children with disabilities. In conclusion, he called on everyone to continue working together to support children, emphasizing the power of solidarity and friendship among nations.
In addition to Christian Schaer, speeches were also delivered by former President of the Rotary Club Lausanne-Ouest, Žarko Stević, the President of our Club, Nadica Mardjonović, the Director of Zvečanska, Zoran Milančić, and the Swiss Ambassador.
Humanity, solidarity and international cooperation
This project embodies the philosophy of Rotary’s founder, Paul Harris, who once said: “Rotary does not exist merely to create friendships, but to build bridges between people and nations for world peace.”
Our club takes great pride in successfully implementing this initiative within its very first year of existence. This achievement is not only a milestone for our club but also a reaffirmation of Rotary’s commitment to humanity, solidarity, and international cooperation. We look forward to continuing to support our community through similar projects that truly make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
For many years, Rotary Club Belgrade Terazije, along with other Rotary Clubs in Serbia, has been actively contributing to social change and improving the quality of life through numerous humanitarian initiatives, as well as projects in education, healthcare, and social responsibility. We remain dedicated to creating a better world through collaboration, mutual trust, and continuous support for those in need.
This project is just one of many undertaken by Rotary, whose members work tirelessly toward the goals of global peace, education, and human rights. This initiative once again reaffirms the power of humanitarian action within the Rotary community, which continues to change lives through solidarity, initiative, and selfless support for those who need it most.
