Message from Founder Tom Johnson

I had a contract manufacturing business based in Poland, 30 miles from the Russian border, for 12 years. When I first arrived, Poland was emerging from the fall of the Soviet Union and had not yet joined the EU. It was a time when I learned much about the tragic history of the country, the strong opinions about Russians and others, that had shaped a rare version of nationalism and civic pride out of hardship and neglect. The national pride that evolved was, and still is, inspiring. 

I was fortunate to watch a decade of EU investment that was truly incredible; infrastructure Poles were proud of, and an emerging link to Western Europe that grew stronger seemingly by the day. It was a rare transition and I felt fortunate to witness it, up close.

Beyond the growth and maturation of the economy and integration of the state, I believe the people are, frankly, the country’s best civic asset. I forged many friendships and business relationships that have lasted long after I stopped doing business in Poland-based business. What remained after I left the country was a collection of trusting, lasting relationships that are rare in my life. Like no other place I have been to, or people I have known, the Poles are as loyal and dedicated a group as there may be anywhere.

It is because of my unique experience with the place and the region that the current events have really affected me. I was unprepared for it. I think the jolting images of husbands left to fight as mothers and wives walk their children across the border, the trauma evident in their faces, have sobered many of us. The filters that normally sanitize images of war are gone, and we can all see it: the unprovoked invasion of a peaceful nation, leading to the desperation of thousands who were simply leading normal lives.

The true nature of Poles is now on full display for all to see; a prosperous--but not wealthy--nation has opened its borders to those who find themselves in truly desperate circumstances. It inspires me, and I want to help; my friends in Poland and their new neighbors, and Ukrainian refugees who need attention and care. This is a moment of desperation that requires immediate action to potentially change the course of generations of lives. That is the objective.

I asked a few friends to offer advice on this undertaking. Responses ranged from “Are you really the best suited for this?” to “Contribute to a group already on the ground,” to “This is tailor-made for you; get there as quick as you can.” Although I have contemplated other ways to help, I think going there and being on the ground to assess the situation during the organized chaos is likely the only way to fashion an effective response. 

The only way to know for sure is to go and see.

Tom Johnson