For the sixth consecutive year, ADVANS Group has made solidarity the theme of its New Year’s celebration. The 2026 ceremony was held on January 20 at the group’s headquarters in Cachan, attended by representatives from Clowns Z’hôpitaux and the Gustave Roussy Center. Their remarks highlighted the demanding reality of working in a hospital setting and the progress of cancer research, while emphasizing the challenges that remain critical for patients. The donations were presented by Radomir Jovanovic, Chairman and CEO of ADVANS Group.
Paris, January 29, 2026 – Launched in 2021, the ADVANS Group’s “Solidarity Greetings” provide an opportunity to reaffirm the group’s commitment to research and the well-being of patients and the elderly. In his speech, Radomir Jovanovic reflected on the significance of this initiative, which has become a highlight of the ADVANS Group’s calendar:
“This year, we are donating €5,000 to Clowns Z’hôpitaux and €25,000 to Gustave Roussy.
These amounts are modest given the scale of the needs, but they come with a great deal of respect and appreciation for your work. Your commitment is admirable, and we are proud to stand by your side.”
He noted that the company has stopped using promotional greeting items since 2020 in favor of providing long-term support for causes that make a real difference.
Testimonials that resonated with the audience
Clowns Z’hôpitaux: Promoting Well-Being in Healthcare Settings
Béatrice Callens, the association’s treasurer, highlighted the demands of this unique profession:
“The clowns who work in hospitals and nursing homes are trained artists, capable of handling delicate situations with tact, observation, and sensitivity. Their mission is based on listening, respecting each person’s pace, and great humanity.
In a climate where many organizations struggle to secure funding, the steadfast support of the ADVANS Group is all the more valuable and enables us to continue these essential initiatives. A heartfelt thank you.”
She then gave the floor to Gwladys Batta, a clown artist, who spoke about the meaning behind her work. In particular, she recounted a touching encounter with a patient suffering from a degenerative disorder, with whom she had managed to establish a brief but precious connection through a simple shared foot movement—a true “foot dance.”
She also spoke of elderly people who, during a first visit, shyly crack open the door to their room, only to welcome her a few months later with a “my friend,” arms wide open, during a second visit.
About the Clowns Z’hôpitaux Association
Founded in 2004 and recognized as a public interest organization, the association works in hospitals, nursing homes, and specialized facilities to offer moments of listening, emotion, lightheartedness, and companionship to patients and their loved ones. https://www.clown-hopital.com/
Gustave Roussy: Real Progress, and Much More to Be Done
Lisa-Marie Labrouve, speaking on behalf of the Gustave Roussy Center, outlined how donations are put to practical use and the progress that has been made:
“Today, nearly 80% of pediatric cancers are treatable, and recent progress has been significant. But there are still 20% of cases where research must absolutely advance, and a crucial challenge: supporting children who have recovered in the years that follow.
Jovanovic spoke of “modest” amounts, yet they still represent nearly €100,000 over five years, which is far from modest. They enable us to make a lasting contribution to funding targeted research projects and to strengthen support for young patients and their families. Thank you for your loyal and consistent commitment to our cause.”
About the Gustave Roussy Center
Gustave Roussy is Europe’s leading cancer center. It combines care, research, and education, with recognized expertise in immunotherapy, personalized medicine, and pediatric oncology. https://www.gustaveroussy.fr/