To instill in people - especially youth - the values of leadership, courage and integrity, as exemplified by the life of Jan Karski.
In the midst of World War II, Jan Karski was dispatched by the Polish Underground to inform Western Allies about the reign of terror in German Nazi-occupied Poland and to seek intervention. Karski’s courageous mission, against all odds in the darkest of hours, qualifies him as Humanity's Hero.
The Foundation grew out of the successful Jan Karski US Centennial Campaign, which placed Dr. Karski's name in nomination for the Presidential Medal of Freedom in December 2011. President Obama awarded the posthumous Medal on May 29, 2012 at a White House ceremony.
The Jan Karski Educational Foundation presents the Spirit of Jan Karski Award to individuals who through their actions have demonstrated the values represented by Jan Karski and have distinguished themselves by defending human rights, speaking out against aggression and on behalf of the integrity of ethnic and religious groups and sovereign nations.
Polish students are inspired by Karski's testimony to participate in the 2021 Annual Holocaust Art & Writing Contest, “Sharing Strength and Sustaining Humanity."
The Jan Karski Educational Foundation mourns the loss of Leonard Kniffel, a Polish-American writer, former publishing executive for the American Library Association in Chicago, and a JKEF supporter.
The Jan Karski Educational Foundation shared the Karski legacy with Social Studies teachers at the annual, virtual Florida Council for the Social Studies Conference on February 20, 2021.
The Jan Karski Educational Foundation responses to an excellent commentary on Polish-Jewish relations by AJC’s Executive Director, Davis Harris.
A moving video with a contemporary and universal message that encourages you to follow the values represented by Jan Karski.
