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    ENGLISH TEACHING
     
    The program is addressed to schools, teachers, local leaders and non-governmental organizations. Through training and grant competitions, it supports efforts aimed at improving the quality of English language teaching to children and youth from small towns and rural areas. The program’s rich offer contributes to the professional development of English teachers who are working in small localities.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Nidzica Development Foundation “NIDA”
    3 Rzemieślnicza St., 13-100 Nidzica
    tel. (48 89) 625-36-51, tel./fax (48 89) 625-36-62
    e-mail: j.kowalczyk@nida.pl

    englishteaching.org.pl

     

    News
     
    XX Jubilee English Teaching Market is over
    XX Jubilee English Teaching Market is over
    How to work effectively with students with special educational needs? How to support communication ...
    EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
     
    This is a system of support for local initiatives aimed at equalizing educational opportunities for comprehensive development of children and youth from small towns and rural areas. The program consists of regular grant competitions as well as training and regional forums enabling the exchange of experiences between NGOs and other entities involved in projects related to education and training of children and youth.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Civis Polonus Foundation
    Bagatela 10 St., Ap. 36, 00-585 warsaw
    tel. +48 509 725 536; (48 22) 827 52 49
    e-mail: fundacja@civispolonus.org.pl

    rownacszanse.pl

     

    News
     
    Ready for the Future. Debate on the challenges faced by youth
    Ready for the Future. Debate on the challenges faced by youth
    It’s already for the third time that the “Equal Opportunities” program initiated probably as ...
    LEARNING SCHOOLS (LES)
     
    The purpose of this program is to improve the quality of Polish education using the best foreign models and domestic experiences. Its objective is to improve teaching and assessment methods and comprehensive school development based on cooperation of teaching staff members. Schools develop new solutions and share their best practices. The program includes post-graduate studies for school principals as well as interactive Internet courses for teachers. Particular emphasis is placed on schools in rural ...
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Center for Citizenship Education Foundation
    10 Noakowskiego St. Ap. 1, 00-666 Warsaw
    tel. (48 22) 875 85 40, fax (48 22) 875 85 40 int. 102
    e-mail: ceo@ceo.org.pl

    The School with Class Foundation ("School with Class")
    19 Śniadeckich St., 00-654 Warsaw
    tel. (48) 518 287 625
    e-mail: fundacja@szkolazklasa.org.pl

    sus.ceo.org.pl

     

    News
     
    Principals of Learning Schools met at Łochów
    Principals of Learning Schools met at Łochów
    ‘With Energy And Courage In Taking Care Of Ourselves’ was a slogan of this year’s Summer School ...
    PAFF AND UW SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
     
    The objective of the program, implemented jointly with the University of Warsaw (UW), is to prepare candidates for the teaching profession. This one-year postgraduate, full-time study is addressed to graduates of MA/MSc studies in Polish language, math, biology and history. The innovative curriculum was developed in cooperation with Columbia University Teachers College in New York. The PAFF and UW School of Education also conducts training sessions, seminars and e-learning courses for in-service ...
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Foundation for Quality Education
    ul. Banacha 2C, 02-097 Warszawa
    tel. (22) 55 43 790, (22) 55 43 789
    e-mail: kontakt@szkolaedukacji.pl

    szkolaedukacji.pl

     

    News
     
    School year inauguration at the School of Education
    School year inauguration at the School of Education
    The subsequent group of the PAFF and UW School of Education students started education on September ...
    PROJECTOR - STUDENT VOLUNTEERS
     
    The idea is to tap into the intellectual potential and energy of university students in order to promote equal educational opportunities for children and youth from small localities as well as activating the volunteers’ social involvement. This is achieved by having groups of student-volunteers carry out educational projects at schools and other institutions.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Educational Enterprise Foundation
    ul. Marii Curie Skłodowskiej 3/2.32
    20-029 Lublin
    e-mail: biuro@projektor.org.pl
    tel: +48 507 703 240

    www.projektor.org.pl

     

    News
     
    Relationship Space. Gala of the 19th round of the „PROJECTOR” program
    Relationship Space. Gala of the 19th round of the „PROJECTOR” program
    “Our actions (…)  wouldn’t have such a value but for you – people who offer their energy, new ...
    BRIDGE SCHOLARSHIPS
     
    A joint undertaking by NGOs, public institutions and firms is addressed to secondary school graduates from rural areas and small towns. The program enables them to receive scholarships for their first year of academic study. It opens the recipients a door to further assistance within the Top Student competition, language scholarships, doctoral scholarships as well as foreign internships.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Educational Enterprise Foundation
    27/29 Sterlinga St., 90-212 Lodz
    tel. (48 42) 632-59-91, 631-95-58, fax (48 42) 630-27-81
    e-mail: fep@fep.lodz.pl

    www.stypendia-pomostowe.pl

    Polish-American Internship Initiative: www.paii.pl

    The Good Network Foundation (“My Scholarship” and “e-volunteering”)
    ul. Marszałkowska 6/17, 00-590 Warszawa
    tel. (22) 825 70 22
    e-mail: biuro@dobrasiec.org

    www.dobrasiec.org

     

    News
     
    Bridge Scholarships handed over. Report from the event
    Bridge Scholarships handed over. Report from the event
    Almost 770 students received scholarships under the Bridge Scholarships Program this year; ...
    FOSTERING RESILIENCE IN CHILDREN AND YOUTH
     
    A new undertaking aimed at enhancing children’s and youth’s mental resilience. The objective of the program is to develop teachers’ and educators’ competence; in their educational work they more and more often have to deal with young people who are depressed, have low motivation, experience loneliness and lack of self-esteem.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

     

    The School with Class Foundation
    19 Śniadeckich St., 00-654 Warsaw
    tel. (48) 518 287 625
    e-mail: fundacja@szkolazklasa.org.pl

     

    The Education for Democracy Foundation
    9/11 Nowolipie St., 00-150 Warsaw
    e-mail: biuro@fed.org.pl

    News
     
    PAFF with a new program for enhancing children’s and youth’s mental resilience
    PAFF with a new program for enhancing children’s and youth’s mental resilience
    The objective of the program is to develop teachers’ and educators’ competence; in their educational ...
    THIRD AGE UNIVERSITIES (TAU)
     
    The objective of this program is to unleash the social energy of senior citizens. It is carried out at two levels: the “Seniors in Action” grant competition, under which senior citizens come up with ideas and carry out projects for the benefit of their local communities and intergenerational integration, as well as support for the Third Age Universities by providing them with training opportunities and mini-grants for cyclical activities that promotes TAU students’ volunteering.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Association of the Creative Initiatives "ę"
    55 Mokotowska St., 00-542 Warszawa
    tel. (4822) 396-55-16
    e-mail: listy@seniorzywakcji.pl

    seniorzywakcji.pl

     

    News
     
    10 years of the „Seniors in Action” competition
    10 years of the „Seniors in Action” competition
    The 10th round of the „Seniors in Action” competition is pending. The competition, with its ...
    SUPPORT FOR NGOS
     
    An information and support system for Polish NGOs and civic initiatives. It includes the Non-Governmental Organizations’ Portal ngo.pl, the free Infoline 801-646-719, a database of organizations and institutions, as well as the “Third Sector” quarterly. The program also offers training, counseling and publications on NGO management (“FIMANGO”, “PROMENGO” and the Kursodrom.pl). It also supports non-governmental organizations with information and advocacy efforts designed to help them effectively obtain ...
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    "MIS@NGO”: The Klon/Jawor Association
    5 Szpitalna St. Ap. 5, 00-031 Warsaw
    Info-line (48) 801-646-719, fax (48 22) 828-91-29
    e-mail: klon@klon.org.pl
    Non-governmental Organization's Portal: www.ngo.pl
    www.eu.ngo.pl

    "FIMANGO": The Civil Society Development Foundation
    6 Kłopotowskiego St., Apt. 59/60, 03-717 Warsaw
    tel.(48 22) 616-33-16, fax (48 22) 616-32-46,
    e-mail: fimango@frso.pl

    “NGO Training”: The Academy of Civic Organizations Foundation
    ul. Królowej Marysieńki 48
    02-954 Warszawa
    tel. (22) 550 28 10
    e-mail: faoo@faoo.pl
    www.kursodrom.pl

     

    News
     
    New image of ngo.pl portal
    New image of ngo.pl portal
    Clear and understandable, intuitively navigated, with content presented in attractive form, ...
    ACT LOCALLY
     
    Grant competitions organized by the network of Act Locally Centers (ALC) lend support to many different initiatives of non-governmental organizations and informal groups that activate communities of villages and small towns, serving their developmental aspirations. The activities involve cooperation of various partners and all respond to the specific needs of their local communities. As a result, they contribute to the building of social capital and the overall improvement of the quality of life. ...
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Academy for the Development of Philantropy in Poland
    6 Marszałkowska St. Ap. 6, 00-590 Warsaw
    tel. (48 22) 622-01-22, fax (48 22) 622-02-11
    e-mail: arfp@filantropia.org.pl

    dzialajlokalnie.pl

    News
     
    Training sessions for Act Locally Centers Network. Report
    Training sessions for Act Locally Centers Network. Report
    A series of training sessions for Act Locally Centers Network took place from February 27 to ...
    SECTOR 3.0
     
    The aim is to broaden the knowledge and skills of non-governmental organizations’ employees and activists in the practical use of modern information and communication technologies (ICT). The program comprises several components: informational (website, VOD, and blog), promotional (Sector 3.0 Festivals), advisory (ICT Mobile Advisors network and e-learning), and financial (Innovation Fund).
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Information Society Development Foundation
    ul. Kopernika 17, 00-359 Warszawa
    tel.: (48 22) 123 90 20
    Contact person: Dawid Szarański
    mobile: +48 530 69 11 99

    sektor3-0.pl

     

    News
     
    Even PLN 150,000 for a #TechForGood project
    Even PLN 150,000 for a #TechForGood project
    Do you have a status of NGO and an idea of how to solve a certain social problem using ICT ...
    PAFF LEADERS
     
    This undertaking is primarily addressed to active participants of various PAFF programs, supporting development of the local leaders’ skills and qualifications necessary to work effectively for the benefit of their communities. The program uses the tutoring method; placing a tutor with a leader for a protracted length of time. Program alumni are encouraged to participate in workshops, study visits to Poland and other countries, and meetings with public figures.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    Zbigniew Pełczyński School for Leaders Foundation
    12A Wiejska St., 00-490 Warsaw
    tel. (4822) 556-82-50, (4822) 556-82-54, fax (4822) 556-82-51
    e-mail: liderzy@szkola-liderow.pl

    programliderski.pl

     

    News
     
    How social narrations impact leadership
    How social narrations impact leadership
    Why TV commercials show seniors in the context of medicines improving memory or seniors that ...
    PRO PUBLICO BONO
     
    Under the program, PAFF currently supports the Bolesław Wierzbiański Award for local newspapers, offers training for local media journalists under the “Media Forum. Local Development” project, and organizes the annual Civic Congress in Warsaw.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Local Press Association (The Bolesław Wierzbiański Award)

    The Media Forum Foundation (“Media Forum. Local Development”)

    The Institute for Market Economics (Civic Congress)

    The Pro Publico Bono Competition Foundation (2000-2014)

     

    News
     
    Local media journalists met at the PAFF Head Office
    Local media journalists met at the PAFF Head Office
    Digital transformation of a title, local portal subscriptions, interventional journalism, and ...
    LIBRARY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
     
    From 2009 to 2015, thanks to the partnership of PAFF with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, 3,808 public libraries in municipalities and rural communes with population of up to 20,000 inhabitants had been supported. They have become modern multifunctional centers which provide access to information, culture and education. From 2021 to 2023, the program reached over 400 new libraries. One of our methods for consolidating program outcomes is to increase the digital competencies of librarians and ...
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Information Society Development Foundation
    ul. Kopernika 17, 00-359 Warszawa
    tel.: (48 22) 123 90 20

    biblioteki.org

     

    News
     
    How do libraries help? The 14th Library Congress
    How do libraries help? The 14th Library Congress
    How Can I Help? Was the slogan of this year’s 14th National Library Congress, that took place ...
    PAFF LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS
     
    The purpose of the program is to initiate and develop cooperation among beneficiaries of various PAFF programs who establish Local Partnerships and involve other local organizations and institutions, as well as entrepreneurs, self-government bodies, and media in the implementing partnership projects responding to diagnosed local community needs. Their activities, using the method of animating local communities worked out in the program, contribute to the consolidation of social capital.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Academy for the Development of Philanthropy in Poland
    ul. Marszałkowska 6/6, 00-590 Warszawa
    tel. (22) 622 01 22

    www.lokalnepartnerstwa.org.pl

     

    News
     
    The Partnership Development Academy is on
    The Partnership Development Academy is on
    Almost 40 representatives of 15 Initiative Groups coming from the most active municipalities ...
    GREEN LEADER
     
    The program supports local leaders who want to gain knowledge and competencies in conducting actions aimed at protecting the environment in their local communities and dealing with climate change, as well as effectively obtaining EU funds for implementation of their initiatives.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Sendzimir Foundation
    46a Mokotowska St., Ap. 25
    00-543 Warszawa

    zielonylider.org

    tel. +48 663 202 050

    Contact person:
    Maria Wiśnicka
    Project Coordinator

     

    News
     
    25th round of the Competition for the Benefactor of the Year
    25th round of the Competition for the Benefactor of the Year
    “Do good all year round” – that slogan has accompanied socially responsible companies for the ...
    LANE KIRKLAND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
     
    A scholarship program for young leaders from Eastern Europe as well as the South Caucasus and Central Asia. Through the two-semester post-graduate studies at Polish universities and professional internships, scholars have an opportunity to learn about Poland’s transformation experience and integration with the European Union. The offer includes one-semester courses for academics.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Leaders of Change Foundation
    Al. Jerozolimskie 133 lok. 56
    02-304 Warszawa
    Program Director: Urszula Sobiecka
    tel. (48) 504 103 904

    kirkland.edu.pl

     

    News
     
    Kirklanders started their studies in Poland. Inauguration in Cracow
    Kirklanders started their studies in Poland. Inauguration in Cracow
    Under the 25th round of Kirkland Program, 37 students coming from 10 countries of Eastern Europe, ...
    REGION IN TRANSITION (RITA)
     
    The program supports initiatives of Polish non-governmental organizations aimed at sharing various aspects Poland’s experience in transformation This is implemented in cooperation with partners in Eastern Europe, the Southern Caucasus, and Central Asia. The program offers grants, training opportunities and experts’ support, as well as assistance in establishing cooperation with foreign partners.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Education for Democracy Foundation
    9/11 Nowolipie St., 00-150 Warsaw
    e-mail: rita@fed.org.pl

    programrita.org

     

    News
     
    Meeting of Region in Transition Ambassadors
    Meeting of Region in Transition Ambassadors
    Almost 80 participants of PAFF’s “Region in Transition” (RITA) and “Support for Ukraine” programs ...
    STUDY TOURS TO POLAND (STP)
     
    These study visits, implemented since 2004, are to show the realities of Poland and the EU to active citizens of East European, Southern Caucasus and Central Asia countries. The participants are university student leaders from Ukraine, Belarus, Russia and Moldova as well as professionals from countries of the Region. Under the program, the Foundation supports the Warsaw Euro-Atlantic Summer Academy (WEASA) addressed to experts coming from Eastern Partnership countries.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Leaders of Change Foundation
    Al. Jerozolimskie 133 lok. 56
    02-304 Warszawa
    e-mail: stp@studytours.pl

    studytours.pl

     

    News
     
    WEASA: integration and revitalization of cooperation at the time of crisis
    WEASA: integration and revitalization of cooperation at the time of crisis
    From July 1 to July 7, 2024, the 12th round of Warsaw Euro-Atlantic Summer Academy (WEASA) ...
    SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE
     
    A special program launched by the Polish-American Freedom Foundation in response to the war in Ukraine is addressed to Polish NGOs helping the civilian population in Ukraine as well as war refugees coming to Poland.
    PROGRAM MANAGER:

    The Education for Democracy Foundation
    ul. Nowolipie 9/11, 00-150 Warszawa
    e-mail: ukraina@fed.org.pl

    Contacts persons:
    Sylwia Gajownik, the Education for Democracy Foundation, Tel. +48 535 854 424
    Agnieszka Świeczka, the Education for Democracy Foundation, Tel. +48 605 787 757

    fed.org.pl/wspieramy-ukraine

     

    News
     
    Over PLN 1.6 million for intervention projects
    Over PLN 1.6 million for intervention projects
    Under “Support for Ukraine”, the new program of the Polish-American Freedom Foundation, 59 ...
    Completed programs
     

    At every single stage of its activity, the Foundation takes various options into consideration when it comes to responding to the emerging needs and problems covered by its program mandate and the financial frameworks.

    For example, the Foundation launched one of the first non-commercial educational portals, which aimed to publicly provide fast and low-cost access to educational resources and services for schools, teachers, students and parents. Among the undertakings made in direct response to requests, an initiative related to reforming medical care was kicked off. As part of it, managers in health care were trained in effectively overseeing medical centers. There were also two programs devoted to tackling unemployment mainly addressed to job-seeking youths and vocational groups threatened with structural unemployment. When Poland was struck by two devastating floods (in 2001 and 2010), the Foundation mobilized additional funds to support schools, libraries and local organizations, mainly in rural areas, which suffered the greatest damage.

    Joining the European Union opened new prospects for Poland. The Foundation launched the "EURO-NGO" Program in 2013, under which a network of 120 experts was created. The goal of the program was to prepare NGOs to acquire EU funds.

    The Foundation placed particular emphasis on the possibility of transferring the previously gained experiences to new activities by making use of its network of contacts and know-how. The Library Development Program serves as an example of that. Its launch was preceded by experiences gained in the “Village in Transition: Building Information Society – e-VITA” Program. Under this program, the "e-VITA Method" was developed as a compound know-how offer of designing and implementing initiatives devoted to the computerization of communes with the active participation of residents. In the completed programmatic field "Citizen in a Democratic State of Law," the Foundation assisted in the development of free legal advocacy for a decade. Among other reasons, the program was launched as a response to the reforms introduced in the sphere of justice administration. "Transparent Community" and "Transparent Poland" were the result of great social interest in governmental transparency, especially at the local level. The guidelines for "Transparent Poland" were further promoted in other countries, just as the experiences of numerous other Polish NGOs were transmitted abroad through the "RITA" Program in the past.

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    Initiatives in Education
     

    THE POLISH EDUCATIONAL PORTAL “INTERKLASA”

    The purpose of the program, carried out between 2000 and 2011, was to create and manage an Internet platform affording access to educational resources, content and services, thereby contributing to the modernization of education and equalizing opportunities for schoolchildren from various environments. As one of the first professional, non-commercial educational portals in Poland, www.interklasa.pl was addressed to learners, teachers and parents. It was a joint undertaking between the Polish-American Freedom Foundation and the Interkl@sa Initiative. The modern technological infrastructure was provided by the Poznań Supercomputing and Networking Center (Poznańskie Centrum Superkomputerowo-Sieciowe). The Portal’s editorial staff organized educational competitions such as the “Contest for the School Website” and the “Interkl@sa Quality Trademark Competition”. It also offered various services such as the “Multimedia Library”, including a wide scope of educational aids, the “Virtual Class” supporting long-distance learning and teaching, and the “Interactive Schools’ Map”, providing information on each of the 30,000 registered educational institutions. The Portal was honored twice by the “Komputer Świat” magazine as the best and most interesting educational website. In 2007, it won the “Webstarfestival” contest promoting the best internet projects in the “Education” category. 

    Program Managers:
    The Economic Education Foundation (2000-2008)
    Poznań Supercomputing and Networking Center (2008-2010)
    The "Polish Educational Portal Interklasa" Foundation (2010-2011)

    THE COMPUTER FOR A TEACHER

    The program, implemented between 2000-2005, was addressed mainly to teachers in junior-high schools in small towns and rural areas. It was intended to enable the purchase of a personal computer by means of a preferential instalment payment system. The Foundation paid the interest and covered the costs of the commission. Over 3,000 teachers from all over Poland took advantage of the offer. “Computer for a Teacher” was the first PAFF undertaking whose execution and outcome were made subject to external evaluation. The results of the survey conducted by the “Pentor” Institute confirmed that the purchase of computers had helped teachers to prepare better lessons and encouraged them to make broad use of educational resources available on the Internet, with special regard to the Interkl@sa Portal.

    Program Manager:
    The National Foundation for Computer Literacy (2000-2005)

    COMPUTER LONG DISTANCE TRAINING

    Using the experience gained in the “Computer for a Teacher” Program, the Foundation launched free distance computer training via the Internet. The project, which was implemented between 2002 and 2004, enabled teachers to participate in training sessions on the subject of free Internet use. Participants in the training learned how to use Internet resources, create websites, prepare multimedia presentations, and build tools for testing their pupils’ knowledge. The program consisted of two modules: distance training via a dedicated Internet service and daily workshops. Nearly 1200 people completed the training and received certificates recognized by the Ministry of National Education and Sports.

    Program Manager:
    The National Foundation for Computer Literacy (2002-2004)

    TRAINING FOR HEALTH CARE MANAGERS

    The program, implemented in 2000-2006, was designed to raise the level of knowledge in the field of modern management of medical institutions. Within the undertaking, 22 training institutions received funding and over 400 post-graduate study scholarships were awarded to health care managers, coming mainly from small towns. The offer also included conferences with the participation of foreign experts, who shared their experiences in managing modern health care systems with Polish doctors. The program resulted in designing and implementing a system of social accreditation of post-graduate study programs in managing health care services.

    Program Manager:
    The Society for Health Care Managers (2000-2006)

    FOR CHILDREN

    This program, carried out between 2005-2010, aimed at fostering equal educational opportunities for children from rural areas and small towns by creating the best possible developmental environment and improving the quality of elementary education. The program’s guidelines were set out in the document called “A Strategy for Elementary Education Development”. In the program’s pilot edition, selected elements of this strategy were implemented in seven rural communes with the assistance of experts and partnerships (NGOs and local authorities). The experience gained during the program’s first year was used as the basis for a “Report on the Situation of Small Children in Poland,” one of the first studies of this kind in the country. Additionally, a database of NGOs supporting elementary education was created, which is available at the website: www.dladzieci.org.pl. In the program’s second edition, 24 NGOs took part in training sessions devoted to modern methods of working with small children. And, 17 non-governmental organizations were awarded grants for projects to introduce elements of the "Strategy".  In 2007 a Partnership for the Education of Small Children was established, affiliating nearly 50 non-governmental organizations. The program’s third edition was aimed at popularizing the resources of the program.

    Program Manager:
    The Comenius Foundation for Child Development (2005-2010)

    ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION

    The objective of the program, in operation between 2004 and 2010, was to support initiatives aimed at stimulating and fostering entrepreneurial spirit among junior-high and high school students, especially in villages and small towns. The program’s main component was called “Junior-high Enterprise.” That initiative was jointly implemented with the Junior Achievement Foundation which supports teachers who help shape creative, entrepreneurial attitudes among their pupils as well as teaching effective teamwork.  To meet the needs of the program, an online system distributing educational materials was created and made accessible at: www.junior.org.pl. It was used by more than 3,200 teachers and nearly 1,300 schools.  The program offer also included the National Competition for the Best Student Initiative “IDEA” and support for the National Entrepreneurship Olympics, organized by the Foundation for the Promotion and Accreditation of Economic Education. Every year a few thousand high school students from all over Poland take part in the Olympics. PAFF still provides its patronage for the Olympics.

    Program Manager:
    The Junior Achievement Foundation (2004-2010)

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    Development of Local Communities
     

    VILLAGE IN TRANSITION: BUILDING INFORMATION SOCIETY (e-VITA)

    The program, carried out between 2004-2011 stemmed from the experiences of the “Village in Transition” (VITA) Program and aimed at promoting the practical application of modern information and communication technologies (ICT) in the social and economic development of rural areas, as well as preparation of local communities and local governments to acquire EU funds. In the first years of the program implementation the model solution – e-VITA method - was developed and in subsequent years financial and expert support was provided for communities that started to build their technical infrastructure, including public Internet hotspot sites and Internet networks. Thanks to the operation of 13 partnerships, 11non-commerical community computer networks were set up, as a result of which residents of 60 villages acquired Internet access. Additionally, 1360 residents enhanced their computer and Internet literacy, and 500 people took part in Internet training for project creation. Educational activities were also performed as part of the program. They were mainly addressed to entrepreneurs, NGOs and youth. Model solutions within this program (the e-VITA Method) were presented in publications, during seminars and on the “Witryna Wiejska” website.

    Program Manager:
    The Rural Development Foundation (2004-2011)

    EURO-NGO

    The program, launched in 2003, was to help NGOs use funds offered by the European Union. As part of the program a public information system to counsel on principles and mechanisms of the EU funds was created. The system was addressed mostly to civic initiatives and non-governmental organizations’ leaders from small towns and rural areas. In the years 2004-2006, thanks to the counseling provided by 120 “EURO-NGO” Experts, Polish non-governmental organizations managed to acquire over $48 million from EU funds for the implementation of 373 individual and 21 partnership projects. The program is continued within the “EURO-NGO+” path as part of the “Support for NGOs” Program.

    Program Managers:
    The Network of Support for NGOs “SPLOT” (2003-2006)
    The Association of Forum for Non-governmental Initiatives (2006-2007)

    UNDOING UNEMPLOYMENT

    This program, implemented in the years 2001-2006, was intended to encourage local initiatives for combating unemployment and its effects. All told, it reached 1,165 persons, who benefited from psychological counseling and legal advice as well as vocational and in-service courses. They also took advantage of the employment agency service supported by a specially organized databank with 3,000 job offers. Almost half of those taking part in the program found new jobs shortly thereafter or created new ones through self-employment. Next, the activities focused on spreading information about the outplacement method having been adapted to the needs and capabilities of NGOs and local social partners. In the years 2004-2006 almost 300 labor market experts completed the „Outplacement Academy” training. The creation of the labor market institutions portal www.bezrobocie.org.pl is another result of the program.

    Program Managers:
    The Enterprise Development Foundation in Suwałki (2001–2003)
    The Foundation for Social and Economic Initiatives (2004-2006)

    WORK IN POLAND

    The purpose of this undertaking, based on the experiences of the “Undoing Unemployment” Program was to bolster the competence and efficiency of non-governmental organizations in the realm of services for the labor market. The program comprised research and analyses, educational-informational activities targeting NGOs and their local government partners involved with the unemployed as well as grants for local efforts implemented with the use of ICT. The program also entailed training for non-governmental organizations through the “distance learning” method.

    Program Manager:
    The Foundation for Social and Economic Initiatives (2007-2010)

    CITIZEN AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

    The program, implemented in the years 2002–2004, was intended to improve relations between local governments and local communities through establishing clear and consistent mechanisms of cooperation between local authorities and citizens as well as organizations representing them. The program resulted in the creation of “Cooperation Charters” developed jointly by representatives of local governments and the third sector. Experiences of the program constituted the basis for launching the “Transparent Community” campaign.

    Program Manager:
    The Foundation in Support of Local Democracy (2002-2004)

    VILLAGE IN TRANSITION "VITA"

    The program, carried out between 2000 and 2003, aimed to stimulate grassroots civil initiatives among rural communities with low levels of activity and also to initiate a regular exchange of information and experiences between non-governmental organizations and local leaders working for the benefit of villages. The program was implemented in three stages: informational – covering over 1,500 persons from 72 communes; training – with approximately 3,000 persons participating in 120 workshops; and executive – consisting of the implementation of 77 local projects, many of which were continued even after PAFF ceased financing them.

    Program Manager:
    The Rural Development Foundation (2001-2003)

    FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT FOR NGOS (FIMANGO)

    The program, carried out between 2000 and 2006 aimed at improving the quality of financial management in non-profit organizations. This was achieved mainly through free-of-charge training courses in which more than 1,300 accountants and people responsible for NGO finances participated. Since 2007, these training courses have been carried out within the framework of the PAFF “Support for NGOs” Program.

    Program Manager:
    The Civic Society Development Foundation (2000-2006)

    THE 2001 FLOOD

    The initiative was launched in 2001 in cooperation with the „Rzeczpospolita” daily. PAFF awarded 17 grants to support the schools most touched by the flood, located mainly in rural areas. Almost 200 small businesses obtained preferential loans to repair damages caused by the flood, provided by the Micro Fund and subsidized by the Foundation. Thanks to the co-operation with the “Klon/Jawor Association”, a special website called “The Flood” was established.

    Program Manager:
    The KLON/JAWOR Association in cooperation with “Rzeczpospolita” daily (2001)

    THE “FLOOD. RELIEF!” PROGRAM

    The initiative, launched in May 2010 was a joint undertaking of PAFF, the Center for Citizenship Education Foundation and the Information Society Development Foundation, all under the auspices of the “Gazeta Wyborcza” daily. The goal of the initiative was to help flooded schools and public libraries located in small towns and rural areas, where the flood had struck. At the same time, PAFF, together with the Academy for the Development of Philanthropy in Poland, launched a campaign to help all the local civic organizations participating in the “Act Locally” Program that were located in the flooded areas. 72 schools and public libraries as well as 70 local civic organizations received financial support. Voluntary Fire Brigades were also provided with aid.

    In cooperation with: the Center for Citizenship Education Foundation, the Information Society Development Foundation and the Academy for the Development of Philanthropy in Poland (2010)

    CITIZEN AND LAW

    Implemented between 2002-2014, the program was to support the development of various forms of civil and legal counseling. It did so by providing support to non-governmental organizations which dispense free, expert legal information and advice and encouraging citizens to exercise their rights in the public sphere. Thanks to the development of the free legal counseling the program provided assistance mainly to individuals in difficult financial straits or life situations. It also fostered public debate on reforming the system of access to legal assistance. Cyclically, a grant competition was organized for non-governmental organizations providing legal and civic consultancy, in which 190 projects were funded. This made it possible to provide over 170,000 legal and civic consultations. The activities within the program were overseen by a Council of Experts comprised of authorities from the legal community. The work of the Council led to the creation of the www.mediacjajestemza.pl website, promoting civil mediation and the Pro Bono Center, thanks to which NGOs may obtain free legal assistance from well-known law offices. Also, the “Active Citizen” Forum was created, which dealt with obstacles limiting voter turnout and developed recommendations on how to improve citizens’ involvement.

    Program Manager:
    The Institute of Public Affairs (2002-2014)

    TRANSPARENT POLAND

    The aim of the „Transparent Poland” campaign, implemented in 2005–2008, with joint participation of local governments and communities, was to introduce and consolidate six principles of good governance: transparency, zero tolerance for corruption, civic participation, predictability, accountability and professionalism. The campaign was the product of a partnership between the PAFF, the Foundation in Support of Local Democracy, the Stefan Batory Foundation, the ”Gazeta Wyborcza” daily newspaper, the Agora Foundation, the Center for Citizenship Education Foundation and the World Bank. It stemmed from the experiences of the “Citizen and the Local Government” and the pilot “Transparent Community” Programs. The campaign was joined by 800 local governments from all over Poland. 426 of them received certificates confirming completion of the program. Local governments participating in the campaign could take advantage of experts’ support – in total more than 3,000 local officials were trained under the campaign. The experiences of the program were presented to interested countries, including Ukraine, Georgia, Bulgaria, Romania, Kazakhstan and the Balkan countries.

    Program Manager:
    The Foundation in Support of Local Democracy (2005-2008)

    TRANSPARENT COMMUNITY

    The “Transparent Community” Program being a pilot for the “Transparent Poland” initiative, was carried out in 2004 with the participation of selected local governments. Its goal was to improve the quality and promote appropriate standards of public life in small towns. The pilot program prepared 16 local governments to become consultants for the “Transparent Poland” mass campaign. 800 local governments from all over Poland applied, ready to implement a set of tasks developed under the “Transparent Community” action.

    Program Manager:
    The Foundation in Support of Local Democracy (2003-2005)

    SUPPORTING LEGAL REFORMS: COMPUTER TRAINING

    In 2001 the Foundation launched a program which aimed to support activities undertaken by judicial institutions to take advantage of modern computer technology in self-education and access to information. Within the program, almost 6,000 judges and judicial administration staff took part in training sessions. Centers for computer education were either created or supported in Białystok, Wrocław, Szczecin, Kraków, Gdańsk and Warsaw, also serving smaller centers. In total 380 computer training sessions were carried out. In 2006, after the completion of financing from PAFF, training sessions in those centers were continued from the courts’ own resources as well as those of the Ministry of Justice.

    Program Manager:
    The “Iustitia” Judges Training Center Foundation (2001-2005)

    RELIEF FUND FOR NGOS AND CIVIC INITIATIVES

    The program, implemented in 2020-2023, supported NGOS during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped them counteract and mitigate its negative effects. The offer was addressed to both organizations involved in the implementation of PAFF programs (e.g. Act Locally Centers) as well as those that haven’t cooperated with the Foundation before but whose activities match its mission. Thanks to the Fund, NGOs adapted to the new conditions and were able to implement projects aimed at people who need assistance the most. The priority was initiatives aimed at minimizing educational losses, ensuring safety, overcoming isolation and improving the mental and physical health of children and young people from towns with up to 20,000 inhabitants, children with disabilities, from migrant families or families facing economic constraints. NGOs also received institutional support in the form of donations to cover administrative and payroll costs. A total of PLN 9 mln was channeled to 250 projects. In addition, information and advisory activities were carried out to improve the quality of activities carried out, as well as networking meetings. One of the results of the program is a publication presenting good educational practices for building the mental resilience of children and adolescents.

    Program Manager:
    The Education for Democracy Foundation

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