This is how a simple idea to donate warm clothes turned into a community movement, collecting over 3,000 items for children in need. Together we can do so much.

It was a second week of December 2013, a time of year when warmth should come from both within and around us. The forecast on the news that one night spoke of a bitter cold front sweeping through Serbia, the kind that makes you shiver just hearing about it. But what truly froze me in my tracks was the news that children in shelters – our most vulnerable – lacked warm clothing and shoes.

I couldn’t shake the thought. As a mother, it hit home in a way nothing else could. My first instinct was to pack up everything my own kids had outgrown and donate it. But then a question arose: What if we could do more?

The next morning, I walked into the Novak Djokovic Foundation office with a spark of an idea. “What if we could all pitch in?” I asked my colleagues. The idea was simple: rally people, gather donations, and get those kids what they desperately needed to face the cold. Little did I know that this tiny spark would ignite into something much bigger.

Within hours, the idea had taken a life of its own. My incredible colleagues jumped on board, bringing energy and creativity to the table. We reached out to Delta City mall in Belgrade, and they generously offered their space for a donation drive. Social media played a big role as well, we spread the word, shared the urgency, and called on everyone to help. The response was overwhelming.

In a matter of days, more than several hundred people showed up to donate. Families came with bags full of children’s clothing and shoes; some had knitted scarves and hats, others brought brand-new winter boots. Strangers became united by a shared purpose: to warm the children who needed it most.

By the end of the initiative that lasted only a couple of days, we had collected over 3,000 pieces of warm clothing and shoes. Three thousand! Every single item represented not just protection from the cold but also a message: You are not forgotten. We care.

What began as my personal desire to give turned into a collective effort fueled by the kindness of so many. It wasn’t just about the donations – it was about the power of community, the belief that together, we can accomplish extraordinary things. It was about the magic that happens when you’re surrounded by a team of people who share your vision and amplify your efforts.

Looking back, “Utoplimo decu” remains one of the proudest moments of my career – not because of me, but because of the incredible spirit of everyone who joined in. It taught me a lesson I carry to this day: no matter how big the challenge, the right team and a shared purpose can make the impossible possible.

That December was cold, but it warmed my heart in ways I will never forget. And the reason I share this story now, besides Facebook reminder, is to inspire each and every one of you readers to do what your heart whispers you to do. No matter how small it may feel, doing good, making an effort, offering a hand to others is impactful and means a lot.

A world truly is a wonderful place if we all do our best to help the ones in need.

Happy New Year!