Foundation Work of the New Millennium

The Foundation " works of the new millennium " (Polish: " Dzieło Nowego Tysiąclecia ") was founded in 2000, as a response of the Polish Church to the words of Pope John Paul II, which he during his pilgrimage in 1999 to the Polish people taught. The Holy Father drew attention to the dynamic of civilization and social transformation in 1989, which was indeed necessary and inevitable, but at the same time led to the increase of poverty. This change affected to a large extent the young people who often had little chance because of limited access to education, to develop. The representation of the Polish Episcopate took the decision to establish a foundation, which aimed to help talented young people from poor and disadvantaged regions.

These young people were " the living monument of John Paul II " mentioned. At the beginning of its activities, the Foundation supported 500 young people from five dioceses. After only two years were students from all the dioceses financial aid. Today, the Foundation has over 2500 fellows.

Students take part in an education program to make its attitude as citizens and Christians Similar goals have also put students who form a community in their cities. For all fellows two-week summer camps are organized. Students from high schools and high schools learn about different regions of Poland and know their cultural and scientific riches.

Another important role of the Foundation is to organize the " Pope Day" in Poland. The celebration will take place on the Sunday before the anniversary of the election of Karol Wojtyła instead of the Pope. The Foundation awards every year the price TOTUS to persons or institutions whose activities on the papal teaching is based and contributes to enhancement of human dignity in everyday life.

From the beginning, the Foundation aims to make the special pontificate of John Paul II, the beloved of the poles Pope, in various ways memorable.