Research conducted by the Jarocin XXI Association indicates a lack of support for youth initiatives in the Jarocin county (Wielkopolskie Voivodeship), and middle-aged individuals, due to their busy schedules, tend to withdraw from social and cultural life. The research also highlights that there is little happening in the city center of Jarocin, representing an untapped potential for the city. The Association’s recommendation was to initiate a social campaign aimed at increasing awareness of the role of social and cultural life and creating spaces for active residents.

In response to this recommendation, we organized the Culture University, a series of diverse micro-projects, including picnics, flea markets, artistic workshops, outdoor cinema, and support and discussion groups, engaging people residing in Jarocin. In total, there were more than 150 events, attended by over 19,000 individuals. The project involved leaders from different age groups and backgrounds, and the program for each activity type underwent social consultations. We utilized spaces that, according to our observations, were previously underutilized for these gatherings. Additionally, we created an online Guide for Active Residents, which includes documentation from the micro-projects, their outcomes, and best practices.

Our partner was the Public Library of the City and Municipality of Jarocin, which provided meeting rooms and training facilities and supported us with its extensive experience in social activities. The branches of the Jarocin Library are small social centers where active residents naturally come together. The library also possesses the necessary know-how and a network of contacts, which proved invaluable in implementing the project. We also utilized the spaces of Echo Cinema and Film Café.

From conversations with project participants, we learned that the discussion and support groups allowed them to engage in conversations on topics of interest and, as a result, become more sensitive to various issues. Some activities, such as flea markets and outdoor cinema, are expected to continue even after the project’s conclusion.