Our projects
“The Unbeatable Cup” once again brought together the strength of spirit, sport, and inclusion in Plovdiv.
The team “The Unbeatables” from the Resource Center in Plovdiv won first place in the field hockey tournament for young people with intellectual disabilities, held for the third consecutive year.
With great dedication, speed, and precision, the boys and girls earned the applause of the audience and the gold medal. Second place was taken by Team Plovdiv, while the bronze medals went to the Special Athletes from the National Sports Academy.
“The Unbeatables Cup” is more than a sporting event — it is a cause. A cause for equal opportunities, acceptance, and belief in the potential of every child. For the third year in a row, the tournament was organized with the support of the Bulgarian Field Hockey Federation, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Creators of Hope Foundation.
It is an honor for us to be part of this initiative and to stand side by side with the children from the Resource Center. We believe that through sport they build confidence, character, and a sense of belonging.
The “Unbeatables” team, founded three years ago, is already among the best in Europe and in 2023 won a silver medal at the Special Olympics World Summer Games, competing among more than 7,000 athletes from around the world.
We thank the children, coaches, parents, and partners who prove that when we stand together, there are no insurmountable barriers.
On Saturday, December 13, at the Boris Hristov Cultural Center, something truly wonderful happened – the premiere of the new family production by the Plovdiv Opera, “Glue for a Beard.”
It is a warm and magical story that reminds us how important it is to make time for the people closest to us, to celebrate the holidays together, and to believe in miracles.
With great joy, our foundation provided 90 tickets for children and their parents from RCPPPО – Plovdiv, giving them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic of this Christmas fairy tale, filled with smiles, emotions, and hope.
We thank the Plovdiv Opera for the inspiration and everyone who makes such special moments possible.
The “Creators of Hope” Foundation took part in the charitable initiative “Let’s Welcome Christmas with a Smile”, supporting 75 children and young people with disabilities from the “Different but Equal” Association.
We are happy to have been part of a cause that brought warmth, smiles, and Christmas hope.
Award Ceremony for the Volunteers of the “Inclusive Education” Club, Part of the “Opera Open 2025” Festival.
After a truly magical and unforgettable summer, filled with so many positive emotions and enchanting open-air evenings — accompanied by the sounds of some of the most famous arias from Madama Butterfly, La Traviata, Anna Karenina, The Barber of Seville, and many other masterpieces — the moment finally came to present certificates to our volunteers from the “Inclusive Education” Club. These are the people without whom Opera Open 2025 would not have been the same.
They are the people who gave their hearts, time, energy, and smiles to ensure that every event ran flawlessly and carried that special magic felt by every member of the audience.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
You were part of the spirit of the festival!
We extend our special thanks to Prof. Dora Lefterova from Plovdiv University for her outstanding work as a leader, inspirer, and driving force behind the professional development of future specialists.
Launch of the Training Program for Retail Staff
“Inclusive Customer Service for Clients with Specific Communication Needs”
We are deeply grateful for your participation in the first edition of our training program, implemented with the support of the Regional Administration – Plovdiv, represented by Prof. Dr. Hristina Yancheva, Creators of Hope Foundation, in partnership with RCPPEO – Plovdiv, and with the expert contribution of our inspiring lecturers — Prof. Manol Manolov from Paisii Hilendarski University of Plovdiv, Department of Psychology, and Dr. Ani Roydeva, PhD in Social Psychology.
Today, for the first time at METRO Plovdiv 1, a training session was held on the topic:
“Inclusive Customer Service for Clients with Specific Communication Needs”
This is a topic that is not only important — it is essential.
It is a sign that we are moving forward as a society in which respect, clear communication, and support are an integral part of everyday workplace culture.
We would like to thank the METRO team for their willingness to learn, grow, and set an example of how good customer service can become a truly human gesture.
Every customer is unique.
Some have specific needs.
Others are families raising children with different abilities.
And we can make their day easier, calmer, and more welcoming — with the right approach, the right words, and a little more empathy.
We are proud to have started this journey of growth, awareness, and kindness together.
May initiatives like this become a natural part of the working environment — because every person deserves to be treated in a way that makes them feel understood and respected.
Thank you, METRO – Plovdiv!
Thank you for your commitment to becoming better, more compassionate, and more humane.
This is real change.
With Faith, Hope, and Love – in Support of Children with Special Needs
On the day when the Bulgarian Orthodox Church honors St. Martyr Arethas and the Most Holy Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow,” an inspiring and deeply moving liturgy was held at St. Marina Church, organized by the Plovdiv Metropolis.
Hearts and souls were united in a shared prayer for health, strength, and comfort for families raising children with special needs — a moment that reminded us all of the profound power of faith when it is shared.
The Creators of Hope Foundation, in partnership with RCPPEO – Plovdiv and with the generous support of the “Business for Plovdiv” Association, had the honor of contributing its small yet heartfelt support to this meaningful event.
We invited the children and their families to attend the prayer service and presented them with annual passes for therapeutic horseback riding — a form of therapy that offers not only movement, but also joy, confidence, and new opportunities.
The warm smiles, gratitude, and love we received are proof that when the Church, the business community, and people with kind hearts come together, true change is born.
Let us continue together to create light and hope in the lives of those who need it most.
Opera Open 2025 Has Come to an End – It’s Time to Share the Results of Our Cause!
Opera Open 2025 festival has come to a close, along with our charity campaign dedicated to supporting children with special educational needs and artists in vulnerable situations. Today, we are delighted to share the results of this meaningful initiative.
With great joy, we announce that thanks to all the visitors of Opera Open 2025, we successfully raised 7,125 BGN.
These funds were collected through the distribution of the special charity festival catalogue and ticket sales for the festival’s performances.
But these numbers are more than just figures. They represent living energy dedicated to doing good. They are solidarity transformed into hope.
"Creators of Hope" Foundation provided over 150 tickets to children from the RCSPPPO – Plovdiv and the field hockey club “The Unstoppables” and their families, giving them a chance to experience the magic of opera – moments that take your breath away and remain in your heart forever.
Our successful partnership with the State Opera – Plovdiv opened the doors to an inspiring journey filled with beauty and art. We also extend heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers from the Inclusive Education Club – young people whose dedication and warmth turn help into true inspiration.
The funds raised will be directed towards supporting children with special educational needs and artists who are overcoming life’s challenges in order to keep creating art.
We thank everyone who, through their donations, helps make dreams come true, bring smiles, and inspire hope.
Three unforgettable days of the “Santorelli Cup” 2025 Championship fave passed!
These were joyful and emotional days, filled with happiness, victories, sometimes tears, friendship, compassion, and support.
As organizers, we are incredibly proud and happy to have created something so meaningful. The “Santorelli Cup” truly proved that sport is accessible to everyone – and we witnessed that firsthand on the field of the “Vasil Levski” National Sports Academy.
From the bottom of our hearts, we want to express our gratitude to:
Mr. Petkov, Rector of NSA – for the wonderful venue and all-encompassing support.
Mr. Antonio Antonov – for the partnership and shared belief in our cause.
The Bulgarian Field Hockey Federation, represented by Mr. Jörg Schenk – for his wise advice and invaluable support throughout the entire organization.
We are also deeply thankful to all the incredible teams from:
Belgium, Bulgaria, Ireland, Italy, and the Netherlands.
You were all truly inspiring on the field – showing courage, strength of spirit, and true sportsmanship.
The “Santorelli Cup” team is proud of each and every one of you, because here, there were no losers.
Each of you is a winner!
We look forward with great excitement to next year and the “Santorelli Cup” 2026!
With love for art and the power of kindness!
The “Creators of Hope” Foundation and the State Opera – Plovdiv are joining forces to transform the stage into a space of equal access and shared emotions.
The Opera Open 2025 festival program will offer not only unforgettable moments but also a chance for the audience to become part of a cause that changes lives.
During the performances, donations will be possible through boxes, QR codes, and mobile payments.
By purchasing the festival catalogue or donating even a single lev, you’re taking a step toward a new beginning and well-deserved support.
Funds raised through the campaign will support talented artists, musicians, and athletes in disadvantaged situations – people who continue to create and inspire despite the challenges they face.
View the program here: https://operaplovdiv.bg
Let’s create hope together – through art, heart, and solidarity.
Thank you for standing with us!
With the magic of theatre and the power of kindness – together for every child!
On June 5th, we had the honor of being part of the 19th Annual Concert of the Regional Center for Support of the Process of Inclusive Education – Plovdiv. The event was held under the patronage of the Governor of Plovdiv Region – Prof. Dr. Hristina Yancheva. We are grateful for the invitation and for the opportunity to stand beside these inspiring children, their amazing teachers, and families.
On behalf of the “Creators of Hope” Foundation, we were delighted to announce a new partnership with the State Opera Plovdiv. Thanks to this collaboration, we will provide free tickets for the upcoming Opera Open 2025 festival performances at the Ancient Theatre. Every child deserves the chance to experience culture, feel inspired, and be included in our society.
You are the true Creators of Hope!
When you read with your heart, the words touch.
On May 29, the Louis Braille Community Center and the Sofia Library held Braille writing and reading competitions - an exciting experience filled with talent, inspiration, and strength of spirit.
With the Creators of Hope Foundation, we thank you for the invitation and the opportunity to support this truly significant initiative.
Congratulations to all who turned words into light.
Welcome to the Santorelli Cup 2025 in Sofia!
Dear friends,
With great excitement we invite you to the second edition of the international field hockey tournament for people with intellectual disabilities – Santorelli Cup 2025!
📍 When: June 27–29, 2025
📍 Where: National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski", Sofia
Expect three days filled with emotions, sportsmanship and inspiration! Teams from Bulgaria, Italy, Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands will meet on the field, showing us the power of sport to unite, change and inspire.
The tournament is under the auspices of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is part of the global ID Hockey movement, which strives to make the sport accessible to everyone – regardless of challenges.
Santorelli Cup is not just a tournament – it is a celebration of inclusion, friendship and human potential!
We thank our main partner – the Santorelli company and its owner Michele Santorelli, for their unreserved support and belief in the social power of sport.
Join as a spectator, volunteer, or simply as a sympathizer! Inspiring matches, new acquaintances, and unforgettable moments await you.
Santorelli Cup 2025 – the place where hockey meets humanity.
Admission is free. Come and support the real champions together!
In the heart of Sofia, art not only tells stories but also changes lives by supporting people in disadvantaged situations. In the building of Sofia Municipality – Sredets District, a charitable exhibition entitled “Art for Hope” will be presented, organized by the Creators of Hope Foundation – a public benefit organization dedicated to social inclusion through culture and art.
All artworks in the exhibition have been kindly donated by
Mr. Michele Santorelli, and the author of the paintings is the talented Rosen Karamfilov – an artist with disabilities whose work reveals the power of the human spirit and the pursuit of a fulfilling life despite challenges.
Every visitor will have the opportunity to purchase a painting and thus support the foundation’s work and future initiatives. We invite all residents and guests of the Sredets District to visit this inspiring exhibition and, if possible, to support our causes.
Donation of an acoustic piano for talented children from the RCPPPO - PlovdivThe Creators of Hope Foundation donated not just a piano, but an opportunity – for dreams, inspiration and new horizons – to the talented children from the Plovdiv Regional Center for Early Childhood Education and Training. This donation is our way of giving wings to young talents and showing them that they are not alone on their path.The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Lefterova from Paisii Hilendarski University, Elitsa Mitova from the Child Protection Department, Dimana Ibusheva from the Plovdiv Educational Service, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the "Creators of Hope" Foundation, Michele Santorelli, and Director Ivaylo Kyuchukov, who supported the cause with the belief that education and art go hand in hand.
On December 9, 2024 in Plovdiv, our foundation became part of the Round Table "Inclusion of People with Disabilities in Volunteer Activities in Bulgaria", organized by the Association "Big Brother, Big Sister - Bulgaria", which included people with disabilities, representatives of social institutions and the civil sector from Plovdiv, Sofia, Burgas, Smolyan, Pazardzhik.
Opening of a ramp for people with disabilities at middle-school "Sofroniy Vrachanskyi" in Plovdiv
On December 10th, a ramp for wheelchairs will be opened at SU "Sofroniy Vrachanski" in Plovdiv. This is a big and important step for the school and for our foundation. The project is fully financed with funds collected from the charity auction on November 29, 2023. Thanks to the installed ramp, the school will have a more accessible environment for children, parents and adults who visit the building. Now the school will be more convenient for all it's visitors.
On December 5, 2024, with great pleasure and gratitude we accepted the "ProSport 2024" Award on behalf of "Creators of Hope" Foundation. We thank Special Olympics Bulgaria for organizing the event and everyone who contributes to creating a more inclusive society through sport.
We will continue to be committed to equality and inclusion for all!
Providing 30 therapeutic horseback riding cards
On 24.10.24, the Orthodox Church venerated the miraculous icon of the Mother of God "Joy to All Who Sorrow" and the foundation provided not only spiritual support to the children, but also a special six-month course in therapeutic riding. This initiative offers children unique therapeutic activities that promote both their physical and emotional well-being.
Purchase of a speaking microphone for Kristian Grigorov.
A speaking microphone was purchased for the talented Kristian Grigorov. He is a musician and artist. This microphone will become part of Kristian's new music studio.
Prayer for Children with Disabilities
"Creators of Hope" foundation added it's contribution by inviting 30 children with special needs and their families to the Holy Ascension Church. The foundation provided not only spiritual support to the children, but also a special three-month course in therapeutic horse-riding. This initiative offers children unique therapeutic activities that promote both their physical and emotional well-being.
Joint initiative of "Apart" theater and RCPPPO-Plovdiv
On June 26, the premiere of the show "Don't Touch the Suitcase" took place.
As a result of the joint work, the RCPPPO-Plovdiv and the theater "Apart" concluded a contract for dealing with children with special needs.
The Foundation decided to be involved in supporting these pursuits. The RCPPPO-Plovdiv Foundation and Center decided to split the costs regarding the amount for the continuation of this project.
A second performance will take a place in "Sofroniy Vrachanski" school in December.
Sponsoring of a printed version of book for Rosen Karamfilov
Rosen Karamfilov is a very interesting and extraordinary person. He is a poet, artist and a big friend of Mr. Michele Santorelli, a very creative person with a big heart. The very letters and words turn into incredible poetry from his mouth. Rosen was a participant in our first auction, where his paintings were sold out with a bang. In September 2024, "Creators of Hope" Foundation made a donation for the publication of Rosen's book - "Entrances and Exits".
National Conference on Good Practices outside of School Activities: “Challenges of Inclusive Education”
It was jointly presented by the foundation and the center RCPPPO-Plovdiv to a huge audience, more than 300 people attended, specialists from all over Bulgaria. It was attended by habilitated persons from the Plovdiv, Shumen and Sofia Universities as well as directors of RCPPPO from 17 regions.
The first international field hockey tournament "Santorelli Cup 2024 ID" has ended with a huge success! 🏑
From August 23 to 25 this year in the beautiful Bulgarian resort of Albena, the first international field hockey tournament for children and youth with special needs in sports, was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Santorelli family and in cooperation with the Bulgarian Federation of field hockey.
This event brought together teams from Bulgaria, Italy and Ireland, who showed exceptional sportsmanship, team spirit and unwavering will. The "Santorelli Cup 2024 ID" has become a real celebration of sports and an inspiring example that you can believe in yourself, in your strengths and capabilities, despite all the challenges.
🥇 Congratulations to the national team of Italy, who won the championship!
🥈 Silver medals for the Bulgarian team, which performed well!
🥉 Bronze medals for the Irish team!
Special thanks to the Santorelli family, the main sponsor and patron of this inspiring event, as well as to the Albena resort and Mr. Stanev personally for the wonderful location and accommodation of all participants.
We are looking forward for the next tournament of cup in 2025!
Career Day at the Faculty of Education of Plovdiv University
Members of the foundation introduced the attendees to our initiatives.
The topic of the importance of the social direction in pedagogy, the increased attention to the topic of children with special needs and the opportunities for future employment of students was raised.
Performance "The Eighth Miracle"
On the 12th of June, in Burgas, at the Summer Theater, performance "The Eighth Miracle" by the Bulgarian National Theater "Bulgarians" was performed. "Creators of Hope" Foundation provided 30 tickets for children with disabilities.
All Together”
social inclusion initiative.
On June 27, 2024, we experienced an incredible meeting, organized by the "Creators of Hope" charity foundation in collaboration with Santorelli Company. During this event, we were happy to welcome children with special needs from the "Irreconcilable" field hockey team together with the children from the "Blagonravie" Sunday school at the "St. Athanasius" church in Asenovgrad.
Meeting at the RCPPPO-Plovdiv related to the LIA Erasmus+ Project
On 29.02.2024. we were participants in a fruitful meeting at the RCPPPO-Plovdiv related to the LIA Erasmus+ Project.
We are proud to be a part of a team that proved that where there is a desire, borders and barriers do not exist! The Minister of Sports and the Deputy Minister were present. Contacts and opinions were exchanged, which initiated the idea of holding the “Santorelli Cup”
Production of tactile maps for visually impaired people for public buildings in the Sredets district, Sofia.
The Foundation provided the production of 5 tactile maps for public buildings and sites in the Sredets district. The maps will be placed in public places in the center of Sofia, such as underpasses, the district administration building and other key locations, with the aim of improving the accessibility of the urban environment for visually impaired people, providing them with the opportunity for easier and safer orientation in spaces.
Sindaco Sofia - meeting with the Mayor of the Sredets Sofia district, Mr. Traycho Traykov, on
February 28
We had an interesting and fruitful meeting with Mr. Traycho Traykov regarding the development of an accessible environment for people with limited mobility. As well as to get more attention to this topic and possible ways for joint cooperation between our foundation and the Sredets Sofia district mayor's office.
With the support of the "Creators of Hope" Foundation, on February 14, 2024, children from the RCPPPO-Plovdiv center were included in the XXI National Exhibition-Competition "SAINT TRYPHON CURED" - 2024.
The Foundation organized the trip of the children, parents and teachers.
Children from the RCPPPO-Plovdiv center participated, 2 of them received participation awards, and 1 of the kids won second place.
Meeting at the RCPPPO-Plovdiv with the Minister of Education of Bulgaria.
On 17.11.2023 At a meeting with the Minister of Education, many important issues related to sports for children with limited mobility and developmental disabilities were discussed. The Minister came to award the silver medalists of the Special Olympics in Berlin. Communication of the hockey team together.
Constructive talks were held to encourage the joint efforts of the state sector, the non-governmental sector and business to strengthen efforts in the field of sports and arts for children with special needs. A contact was established, which later developed during a conference at Plovdiv University.
Project 1-2023
Auction of artworks that were bought from artists with disabilities on 29.11.2023 :
Expences:
Organization of auction: 2800 BGN.
Cost of artworks: 15140 BGN.
Bank expences: 105,16 BGN.
Total: 18025,16 BGN.
Income:
Founding capital: 15,000 BGN
Amount raised from the auction: 47,800 BGN
Donations: 15,750 BGN
Total available on 12/14/23: 60,504.84 BGN
For the purposes of the foundation, we are currently researching schools in Plovdiv that are having lack of an accessible environment.
Follow us in our causes.
Income:
Founding capital: 15,000 BGN
Amount raised from the auction: 47,800 BGN
Donations: 15,750 BGN
Total available as of 12/14/23: 60,504.84 BGN
