Marko Tomasevic’s dedication to community and culture is evident in his commitment to helping children with special needs. In this interview, Marko shares his journey of volunteering, fundraising, and supporting Best Buddies, an organization that positively impacts lives globally. Marko also reflects on how his Serbian roots shaped his values and how he’s used his connections to make a difference.
Marko’s Journey of Volunteering, Fundraising, and Giving Back
What initially motivated you to support the Best Buddies organization?
My desire to support Best Buddies came from firsthand experience. When I was there, spending time with the children, it really gave me a new perspective on how to help them. I saw how much of an impact even the smallest gestures could have. That experience made me realize I wanted to be involved and do something meaningful for these kids.
How has your Serbian heritage influenced your involvement in this cause?
Yes, most of my family lives in Serbia, and I’m very connected to it. I speak Serbian at home, and spending time in Belgrade each summer has had a significant impact on me. Through my family’s culture, I’ve learned a lot about community involvement and generosity. Those values have always been important to me, and I carry them with me in everything I do. When I was volunteering, I could really feel the importance of giving back—something I’ve seen my family practice for years.
Can you tell us how you raised funds for Best Buddies?
The success of the fundraiser was largely due to the incredible generosity of the people around me. I decided to use the Go Fund Me platform to raise money, and I reached out to friends, family, and people in the Serbian community living in America. It was amazing to see how many people were willing to help. By sharing the cause with those in my neighborhood and network, we were able to raise significant funds. The response was overwhelming, and I’m so grateful to everyone who supported us.
How does it feel knowing you helped children in need from so far away?
It felt very fulfilling, honestly. Even though I’m far from Serbia, knowing that I helped these children felt like such a meaningful accomplishment. The small contributions that we made were so significant to these kids and their families. What may seem like a small gesture to some can create a world of change for others. That realization made the whole process even more rewarding.
What advice would you give to others who want to help?
I would definitely encourage others to get involved in any way they can. Whether it’s through volunteering, fundraising, or simply supporting local organizations, every little bit helps. It’s heartwarming to see the impact one person can make just by being proactive in their community. It’s amazing how connected we can become and how much help we can provide to people all over the world. We all have the ability to make this world a better place if we just take the initiative.
What values from your Serbian background have influenced your actions?
One of the most important values I’ve taken from Serbian culture is the importance of community involvement. Growing up, I watched my parents and extended family always step up to help others. I carried that with me when I started volunteering with Best Buddies. The bond I formed with the children—playing sports, making soap, and dancing—was something I’ll never forget. They taught me how to be honest, direct, and loving, which is so important in any relationship. That spirit of community has shaped everything I do.
Do you have any final thoughts on supporting children with special needs?
I’d say, go for it. Volunteering and fundraising for children with special needs is one of the most fulfilling experiences you can have. Not only are you helping those who are underprivileged, but it also enriches your own life in ways you can’t imagine. Seeing the joy and progress of these kids is heartwarming, and it’s a reminder that, together, we can make a real difference. If more people get involved, we can create a world of change for everyone.
