2019 Youth Cultural Program to Poland

On July 6th, 2019 a group of thirty-five (35) students between the ages of 13-15 from States across the U.S. departed from Chicago to participate in the Explorers’ Summer Polish Language and Culture Camp at the Jagiellonian University, accompanied by Bo Padowski, Secretary and Antoinette Trela, Treasurer of the Polish American Congress Charitable Foundation. 

After arrival on campus, the students were given their rooming assignments in the dormitories (2-3 to a room with private bath) so that they could unpack, get familiar with their surroundings and rest.

This two-week Program encompassed daily 3-3.5 hour Polish language lessons, with the students having been tested on the day of arrival and class placement determined by level of knowledge, so that the students in each group were learning at the same pace.

In addition, there were cultural outings and activities including:

• a tour of the Jagiellonian University Museum

• sightseeing of Old Town and Wawel Castle in Krakow

• a trip and hiking in Zakopane

• a workshop at the Stanislaw Lem Garden of Experiences

• a cruise along the Vistula River to Tyniec

• a tour of Ogrodzieniec Castle

• a visit to Bochnia Salt Mine, 

• a visit to Krakus Mound

• sports activities and competitions
  on-campus

• free time for shopping

Of course, the students were given time each afternoon for a break to rest and socialize together after lunch.  In addition to the 35 students sponsored by PACCF, there were 25 students of Polish heritage from a number of other countries, including England, Brazil, Ukraine, etc. who participated in the Explorers’ Camp.  Many new friendships were established, we are sure!

 The PACCF has been sponsoring cultural youth trips to Poland for many years, determined as funds become available.  Participants must be an insured member of one of the Polish fraternals*, or a dues paying member of a local Division or the National Polish American Congress.

*This year, due to the merger of the Polish Women’s Alliance of America into the FCSLA (in 2017), members of all Branches of FCSLA falling within the 13-15 age group, were included and were eligible to participate. 

During the closing ceremonies and dinner, held on Friday, July 19th, the students were each presented with a Dyploma for having successfully completed the Polish language class and each received a small gift from the School.  This was followed by a Disco Dance Party before lights out for the final time.

We were told by numerous faculty members and school chaperones that this group of students was, by far, the most respectful, pleasant and enjoyable group that they have had as participants in the Explorers’ Camp over the past several years.

As the sponsoring organization, PACCF officers are very proud of our participants, as should be all parents and the organizations that sent students, including FCSLA, Polish National Alliance (PNA), the Polish Falcons (PFA) and the local Division and National Polish American Congress.