„"Before the Coffee Gets Cold – Read Me a Book" is a social campaign that aims to raise awareness of the problem of loneliness – and to highlight the potential of each of us to combat it. We want to remind people how powerful simple gestures are: presence, conversation, reading a passage from a book to someone, spending an hour or two with someone. No rushing, no judgment.
We increasingly encounter people who feel lonely: seniors, the sick, migrants, people living far from their families, and even young people struggling with difficult emotions. Loneliness doesn't always look the same, and it's not always immediately apparent. That's why it's important to talk about it and combat it.
Why a book?
The campaign is inspired by the novel "Before the Coffee Gets Cold"—a story about people longing for conversation, understanding, and a second chance. This book reminds us how important relationships are and how small moments of closeness truly matter.
Our readings aren't performances or artistic events. They're peaceful, warm gatherings where we read short excerpts from a book and then simply spend time with people: talking, listening, and sharing our reflections. It's a moment of pause in the daily grind—both for those listening and for the volunteers.
Why do we do this?
Because we believe that volunteering truly changes lives – both for those who help and those who need help.
Our goal is:
- reducing the feeling of loneliness,
- building friendly, warm relationships,
- showing that everyone can help, regardless of age or experience,
- promoting volunteering as something simple, accessible and much needed,
- creating a space for conversation, experiencing emotions together and being together,
- strengthening social sensitivity – so that we notice those who feel invisible more often.
The campaign is also intended to encourage us to look around: maybe there is someone in our building, in our yard, or in our family who could use attention, time, or conversation?
What do our „readings” look like?
Each meeting is led by three or four volunteers and lasts approximately two hours. We read short excerpts from a book that can be thought-provoking, calming, and provide a moment of respite.
After the reading, there's time for a completely casual conversation. You can share your emotions, ask questions, share your own stories, or just sit together.
At 100%, our activities are social and non-profit. We don't charge any fees. Everything is organized by people who simply care about others.
Dates and locations of December readings:
- December 12, 2025, 1:00 PM – Cafe Łukowa
- December 15, 2025, 4:00 p.m. – Świdnica Municipal Public Library
- December 17, 2025 – Detention Center in Świdnica
- December 18, 2025, 11:00 AM – Intercultural Café, Initiative Support Center, Rynek 39-40.
The meetings will look a little different in each location, because the people participating are different. But the essence always remains the same: to be with another person before their coffee gets cold.
Where can you get involved in similar activities?
The campaign is also an invitation to contact the Świdnica Volunteer Center. There you can find out:
- how to become a volunteer,
- what activities can help,
- which organizations in Świdnica are looking for support,
- how to find volunteering opportunities that match your interests and opportunities.
Contact:
phone: (74) 856 29 93
