The main aim of the project was to develop the competencies of seniors in the area of civic dialogue, strengthening the voice of older people and their influence on shaping senior policy at the municipal level, as well as social activation and strengthening public participation of older people, through: - developing and testing training programs and methods for senior leaders; - increasing knowledge about the functioning and achievements of municipal senior councils in Poland and Norway; - exchanging information and good practices in the field of civic dialogue and methods of activating older people; - building relationships and cooperation between leaders from Poland and Norway; - increasing the competencies of the Foundation's staff in the field of educational support for seniors. The implementation of these goals was intended to increase the educational opportunities for seniors in the area of social and civic activity, activation and the strengthening of their voice in the local forum. The cascade method will enable the knowledge acquired by leaders to be passed on to other seniors. Well-prepared senior leaders will be more effective in activating the senior community and in passing on knowledge to less active seniors.
Foundation for Active People and Places supports seniors from several years, and from 10 years coordinates Malopolska Network of Senior Councils – a place for exchanging experiences between senior councils. Senior councils represent seniors in dialogue with local authorities to improve the quality of life for this age group, take their problems into account and meet specific needs, including education, access to healthcare, counteracting exclusion and fulfilling their needs. However, they are relatively new in Poland, and their establishment and effectiveness depend on the goodwill of the local government and the conscious rights and possibilities of seniors. It is important to create opportunities to develop competencies seniors who want to foster dialogue with the authorities and build mechanisms of participatory democracy. So far, no educational program has been created in Poland aimed at preparing seniors to perform the functions of senior council members. People who want to engage in this activity come from different backgrounds, have different professional experiences and skills. It is therefore necessary to equip them with the knowledge and skills that will allow them to be partners in dialogue with local authorities.