Rytas Vilnius encourages club members, the basketball community, and all residents and visitors of the capital to pay attention to social challenges, expressions of anger, inequality, and discrimination.

Together Against All is the campaign of a club with a strong values foundation, aimed at supporting, organizing, and advancing a range of social initiatives.

CAMPAIGN GOALS
– Draw attention to social issues relevant to society
– Help people who need support the most
– Express the support of the club and the Vilnius community for people who do not have equal opportunities to integrate into society

For the second consecutive year, Rytas Vilnius is partnering with Gelbėkit vaikus (Save the Children Lithuania) to support the Equal Start initiative. Throughout October and November, the capital’s basketball club and its supporters will raise awareness about the day-to-day realities of the country’s most vulnerable families and help children facing hardship discover their strengths.

In Lithuania today, one in six children remains at risk of poverty or social exclusion. For some, life’s starting point is incomparably harder: they lack not only basic school supplies or a safe environment, but also fundamental encouragement and belief in their own abilities. Basketball teaches that no one is left behind on the court and that a helping hand is always extended to those in need. This partnership aims to carry that arena-born solidarity into the real lives of children.

Laura Milčienė, head of Gelbėkit vaikus, emphasizes that support from the sports community opens up a whole new world for children:

“We are sincerely grateful to basketball club Rytas Vilnius for this ongoing second year of friendship. The Equal Start initiative helps provide better conditions for children from vulnerable families to grow and learn, while encouraging them to believe in their capabilities and courageously lay the groundwork for their future. The personal example set by athletes draws public attention to the challenges faced by children and, we believe, inspires both businesses and society to actively step in. We invite each of you to become part of this mission—your financial support for Gelbėkit vaikus is a direct investment in a strong, confident new generation.”

Martynas Giga, CEO of Rytas Vilnius, points out that the club’s social responsibility extends far beyond the basketball hardwood:

“The arena lights, the victories, and the emotions represent the glamorous side of sports, but right beside us are children whose daily lives are a quiet struggle against hardship. They don’t need pity—they need the opportunity to feel valued, seen, and supported.

Our players are role models to many kids, and we want this platform to become a beacon of hope. When a child from a vulnerable background attends a game, sees a packed arena, and feels that sense of unity, a completely different spark ignites in their eyes. We are very proud to continue this partnership with Gelbėkit vaikus. If we can help even a few children believe that they can achieve great things, our shared efforts will have truly mattered.”

During October and November home games, fans will have the opportunity to learn more about the organization’s work in person. A dedicated Gelbėkit vaikus stand will be open in the arena, where team members will share stories about the daily lives of the children under their care, accompanied by a prize wheel featuring themed souvenirs.

Every game begins with a level score on the board. Let us provide a level playing field for children as well—the organizers invite everyone to help turn a struggle for survival into a fulfilling life:

• By scanning special QR codes displayed inside the arena during home games and across the club’s social media channels.

• In the meantime, you can contribute:

  • Via SMS to 1486: text GV3 (EUR 3 donation), GV5 (EUR 5), or GV10 (EUR 10);

  • Online at: https://p9.lt/parama-vaikams/

Every contribution is a direct investment in a child’s future, helping ensure an equal start in life.