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Cardinal
Karol Wojtyla &
The Kosciuszko Foundation
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On Sept. 4, 1976
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Cardinal Karol Wojtyła visited the Kosciuszko Foundation and told its members that the work of The Foundation is "particularly important at this time. We realize that culture creates a national identity, and in the end creates the nation itself."
Cardinal Wojtyla, who two years later became Pope John Paul II, praised the work of "The Kosciuszko Foundation, which attempts to diligently serve the interests of the Polish people. We must be grateful to everyone who has contributed to these efforts, and to those who are continuing to work towards these goals. This work is one of the greatest components of our national identity."
This was true in 1976, and it's just as true today. The work of the Foundation preserves Polish culture and works to educate the next generation of Polish and Polish-American leaders. Founded in 1925, the Kosciuszko Foundation promotes closer ties between Poland and the United States through educational, scientific and cultural exchanges. It awards up to $1 million annually in fellowships and grants to graduate students, scholars, scientists, professionals and artists, and promotes Polish culture in America. The Foundation has awarded scholarships and provided a forum to Poles who have changed history.
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A Vision for Tomorrow
|  In the 18th century, Tadeusz Kosciuszko said, "By nature, we are all equals - virtue, riches and knowledge constitute the only difference." Education is the key to success, and Kosciuszko dedicated his life to the liberation and education of the underprivileged. He also donated his last will and testament to the education of peasants and slaves. In the 20th century, another virtuous Pole, Stephen Mizwa, followed his example and established the Kosciuszko Foundation whose primary mission is education and promoting Polish culture.
As the years rolled on and the challenges facing Poland changed with the times, the Foundation's work has evolved to meet those challenges. Mizwa started the Foundation after Poland's rebirth following World War I, but his mission took on new meaning during the years of Nazism, Communism and the Cold War. Today, Poland is once again free, part of NATO and the European Union. Many Kosciuszko Foundation alumni have taken part in that transformation.
These days, young Poles and Polish-Americans are uniquely poised to change the world, not just through humanities and the arts, but through the sciences, technology and business as well. But it takes money to finance their dreams through education. With scholarships, they can become the leaders of tomorrow. For the 21st century, the Kosciuszko Foundation wants to build on the examples set by Kosciuszko and Mizwa, but we need your help to do it.
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How You Can Show Your Polish Pride and Fulfill Polonia's Mission
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The Kosciuszko Foundation can only continue its activities supporting Polish culture and awarding scholarships if we receive support from people like you. To become a member of the Kosciuszko Foundation, to make a tax-deductible donation, or purchase tickets to the Kosciuszko Foundation Ball on April 30th honoring "Coach K" Mike Krzyzewski of Duke Basketball, please call 212 734 2130, or visit us on the web at http://www.thekf.org
To receive tax deductions in Poland, please donate to Fundacja Kościuszkowska Polska which will allow Polish citizens to receive tax deductions by calling 48 (22) 621 7067, or visit our office at: ul. Nowy Swiat 4, Room 118, 00-497 Warszawa
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