What is the H. Stepic CEE Charity?

The H. Stepic CEE Charity is a non-profit association working to improve the living conditions of children, juveniles and women in Central and Eastern Europe. The association was founded in Vienna in the year 2006 and has its office in Vienna.

Why was the H. Stepic CEE Charity founded?

The H. Stepic CEE Charity was founded by Dr. Herbet Stepic, CEO of Raiffeisen International Bank-Holding AG and Deputy Chairperson of the Managing Board of Raiffeisen Zentralbank Österreich AG. He is one of the leading Austrian bank managers and owes much of his professional success to Central and Eastern Europe. By establishing the association, he wants to give something in return to the people living in this region.

Who supports the H. Stepic CEE Charity?

The H. Stepic CEE Charity is supported by members and donors. Physical and legal persons may become members of the association.

How is the money used?

The membership fees and donations are paid into the account of the H. Stepic CEE Charity. The revenues are used exclusively to carry out and to support projects and initiatives for the benefit of children, juveniles and women in Central and Eastern Europe, in accordance with the criteria defined in the by-laws. The H. Stepic CEE Charity accounts for them properly and with transparency. The association informs its members about the use of funds in an annual report.

How much of my money goes directly to the people who need help?

Revenues may only be used for the purposes listed in the by-laws.

As Raiffeisen banks on site cooperate in the projects on an ongoing basis, these can be implemented without any bureaucracy and with cost efficiency. The assistance can be provided swiftly to wherever it is needed. The members of the board, as well as the members of the association work for the association on an honorary basis. As the association does not hire any staff, there are no personnel costs.

How is project implementation the correct allocation of the funds guaranteed?

An annual activity report on the supported and implemented projects and the use of revenues makes sure that funds are used with transparency. The local Raiffeisen banks at the project sites give their active support to the association in connection with the proper use of the funds.

Which projects are supported?

The activities of the association are not oriented to making a profit. The object of the association is to promote and support children, juveniles and women in Central and Eastern Europe in social, economic, health and cultural respects, as well as in the fields of vocational training, continuing vocational training, school training and education. The association provides assistance to children, juveniles and women who are in pecuniary needs and/or need welfare services, health care, care or recreation on account of their social or health situation. The association supports the school and university training and further training of children and juveniles in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as their education and care. The association promotes cultural exchanges between children and juveniles in Central and Eastern Europe.

Are there projects that are not supported?

All projects that do not satisfy the aforementioned criteria and thus do not comply with the by-laws of the association do not receive any support. This includes, in particular, projects that are not launched in Central and Eastern Europe.

How are projects launched?

The Board of the H. Stepic CEE Charity launches the projects. It can also react to proposals that are submitted by the persons who are familiar with the situation in the respective countries.

How can I become a member?

You must enter your personal data in the column “How can I become a member” and apply for admission as a member. For legal and organizational reasons, the completed form must be printed out and sent by mail or fax to the indicated contact address.

How do I pay my membership fees?

Membership fees must be paid on an annual basis. It is possible to arrange for a direct debiting service. You may indicate your approval for having the amount debited to your account on the application form.

What are my rights and obligations as a member?

Extraordinary members help facilitate and support the assistance projects of the association by paying their membership fees and by possibly making additional donations. Ordinary members fully participate in the work of the association and support the association not only with their membership fees but by cooperating actively and on an honorary basis. All members have the right to attend the annual meeting. Only ordinary members have the right to vote at annual meetings, as well as the active and passive voting right in elections.

How can I terminate my membership?

You can end your membership at any time and with immediate effect by sending an e-mail or a letter to the board of the association.