Dworzysko drives rural empowerment through circular economy, offering jobs, events, and eco-friendly hospitality

Almost 40% of Poland’s population live in the country’s rural regions, many of which have high poverty rates stemming from limited economic opportunities, geographic isolation, and under-developed infrastructure, education, and social programs. With a mission to drive economic growth for rural communities, Dworzysko is a recreational complex located in the small town of Szczawno Zdrój, in the south west of Poland. Surrounded by nature, Dworzysko combines a passion for caring for the environment and the local community with circular economy principles to offer high-quality accommodation, active outdoor activities, an events venue, and sustainable catering options.

Currently, Dworzysko employs a total of 90 people, almost 85% of whom are from marginalised backgrounds, including Ukrainian refugees, single mothers and women finishing their maternity leave, youth entering the job market, and individuals in long-term unemployment and from low-income rural households. Dworzysko focuses on employee capacity building and facilitates cyclical vocational training in kitchen operations, hotel reception, housekeeping, and restaurant serving.

The facility also offers basic-needs support for displaced individuals most in need, including on-site accommodation and support to get children into local kindergartens and schools. During the summer months, it provides free public transportation, flexible working hours for mothers, and free horse-riding lessons for employees’ children.