The "New Year Tree of Wishes" was launched at the National Centre RUSSIA
The all-Russian project of the Movement of the First, the "New Year Tree of Wishes", was launched in the "Space of Opportunities" at the National Centre RUSSIA on World Children's Day, 20 November.
"The ‘New Year Tree of Wishes’ is a meaningful opportunity to offer support to every child and young person, regardless of where they live or their health conditions. Initially, targeted assistance is provided to children in the run-up to the New Year, and later conditions are created for their further integration into active projects. On 2 December, the fifth International Forum of Civic Engagement #WEARETOGETHER will open at the National Centre RUSSIA, where the central ‘New Year Tree of Wishes’ will be installed so that every participant can make someone’s dream come true," — said Grigory Gurov.
A warm pre-holiday meeting with Ded Moroz from Veliky Ustyug also took place. The country’s chief winter wizard arrived at the National Centre RUSSIA directly from his residence to speak with the children, answer their questions and present the first gifts. They asked him about life in Veliky Ustyug, fairy-tale transformations, his personal preferences and preparations for the upcoming holiday. Ded Moroz noted that people still retain their faith in magic.
"Despite scientific and technological progress and our digital age, nothing changes in your hearts. You remain kind, wonderful people who believe in miracles. Both the little ones and the grown-ups — you are all the same to me. I love you all," he said warmly.
The chief winter wizard highly praised the Movement of the First for initiating and organising the campaign "Russian Children’s Ded Moroz".
"The main goal of the campaign is to bring joy and say 'thank you' to those who are obliged to work during the New Year holidays while others celebrate with their families. And I am glad to see a young generation of my wonderful helpers growing up. I trust them and share my fairy-tale magical power with them. No one should be left without a gift, good cheer and warm New Year wishes — even those who, unfortunately, will not be able to welcome the New Year at home," he explained.
He also emphasised that the festive atmosphere is supported by the "New Year Tree of Wishes" campaign, which has been held in Russia for several years: "The New Year Tree of Wishes is one of the most wonderful New Year miracles. With every snowflake of my frosty soul, I thank those who truly help children whose lives, unfortunately, are not unfolding in the best way. For these kind deeds, my dear ones, you have my deep gratitude."
In conclusion, the winter wizard reminded both adults and children that great miracles begin with small steps.
"Start with tiny steps — and you will not even notice how your life becomes filled with light. It is no coincidence that the main motto of my New Year fairy tale is 'Do good'," the wise winter wizard concluded.
Event photobank
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Leaders in volunteering, charity and social partnership – took part in the 5th International Forum of Civil Participation #WEARETOGETHER.
President of Russia Vladimir Putin picked three cards with children's wishes off the New Year tree at the National Centre RUSSIA.
