Doświadczenia w realizacji usług społecznych zdobyte przez Centrum Usług Społecznych w Myślenicach
Experiences in the delivery of social services by the Social Services Center in Myślenice

Summary/Abstract: The low level of social activity, changing models of local communities, andthe lack of a cohesive social policy have prompted public institutions to seek innovativesolutions in the provision of support. One proposed response to these contemporaryneeds and expectations is the concept of establishing social service centers (CUS) inPoland. This article outlines the stages of implementing the pilot project “Social ServiceCenter in the Municipality of Myślenice”, conducted between 2020 and 2023. Theproject’s objectives included reorganizing local social services, fostering communityengagement, and promoting the idea of mutual aid and cooperative local partnerships.It discusses the legal framework for creating new institutions, the advantages of universalsocial services, and the challenges associated with transforming the social support system inPoland. Insights gathered during the project’s implementation indicate that the effectivenessof social services requires not only proper planning and financing but also investments in staffcompetency development, strengthened partnerships with social organizations, and flexibilityin adapting activities to the dynamically changing needs of residents. The implementation ofsuch models should be supported by stable legal and financial frameworks at the national levelto ensure the long-term sustainability and functionality of Social Service Centers. Additionally,sharing best practices and experiences among local government units is essential for developingeffective social services across Poland. Through this project, solid foundations were laid forfuture initiatives in decentralizing, integrating social services, and deinstitutionalization, markinga significant step toward improving residents’ quality of life and building stronger, more activelocal communities.

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