A Closer Look: RTL Deutschland’s Charity for Children

'RTL Stiftung - Wir helfen Kindern e.V.' ('We help children') understands the challenges faced by children across the globe. From hunger and violence to inadequate access to education and healthcare, numerous children endure unimaginable hardships. 

Since 1996, RTL Deutschland has been making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children in Germany and beyond.

The charity's 24-hour fundraiser show 'RTL Spendenmarathon' just received the 'green motion' label for its sustainable production. Time to take a closer look at the charity and its annual fundraiser.

Since its foundation, 'RTL Stiftung - Wir helfen Kindern e.V.' has successfully implemented hundreds of major projects and numerous smaller initiatives in collaboration with renowned organizations like UNICEF, Care, and Nestwärme. 

While donations are accepted throughout the year, RTL Deutschland hosts a remarkable fundraising event each November, the 24-hour fundraiser  'RTL Spendenmarathon' (donation marathon) for its charity.  

This marathon brings together donors, celebrities, and media partners to make a collective impact. The 2023 marathon alone raised over 20 million Euros for children in need. 

The 2023 edition of the ‘RTL-Spendenmarathon’, has just received the ‘green motion’ label for its environmentally friendly production. 

To gain the 'green motion' label, a production must meet at least 16 ecological standards. 

The charity's fundraiser show, which lasted for 24 hours and involved more than 1,500 participants, successfully met these standards through measures such as the use of green electricity, reusable crockery and bottles, minimizing air travel for guests, using electric cars for transportation and staying in eco-certified hotels.

The charity and RTL's donation marathon receive widespread promotion and support from various RTL TV stations and other media brands under the RTL Deutschland umbrella, including the renowned news brand 'Stern'. 

This extends the reach and impact of the charity, amplifying its mission. 

Numerous influential personalities have generously contributed their time and influence to the charity, especially during the 'Spendenmarathon'. 

From sports icons such as Steffi Graf, Jogi Löw, and Toni Kroos to global figures like Pope Francis and Queen Silvia of Sweden, these celebrities have joined forces with 'RTL Stiftung - Wir helfen Kindern e.V.' to create a lasting impact. 

Notably, Joey Kelly, a German sports enthusiast, has been at the forefront organizing the annual fitness challenge (“The Kelly Challenge”) during the marathon - raising substantial funds within the last years!

In addition to the recent accolade of the 'green motion' label, the 'RTL Stiftung' has also received the DZI label from the German Central Institute for Social Issues (DZI), acknowledging its trustworthiness as a charity. 

In addition, Wolfram Kons, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of 'Stiftung RTL - Wir helfen Kindern e.V.' and General Manager Charity RTL Germany, was personally recognized for his longstanding commitment with the Order of Merit of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia in 2020.

'RTL Stiftung - Wir helfen Kindern' continues to be at the forefront of social change, working tirelessly to provide a brighter future for children worldwide. 

Through an unwavering dedication, impactful collaborations, and remarkable achievements, the charity and everyone involved serve as an inspiration to individuals and organizations aiming to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children.