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Neila Baumilienė Awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania

Congratulations to Neila Baumilėnė – awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania!

On July 6th – the Day of the Statehood (Coronation of King Mindaugas) and the National Anthem Day – the President of the Republic of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda, honored 71 individuals with state awards for their contributions to strengthening Lithuania and promoting its name in the world.

Among them was Neila Baumilienė, Executive Director of the Kazickas Family Foundation in New York, who received the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania for:

Initiatives supporting Ukraine (in Lithuania, the U.S., Ukraine, and beyond),
Promotion of Lithuanian heritage and education abroad,
Strengthening ties between the global Lithuanian diaspora and Lithuania.

This award is a meaningful recognition of Neila’s dedication and sincere work, which inspires not only the KFF community but also Lithuanians around the world who care deeply about Lithuania, the ideals of freedom and independence, and the preservation of national identity.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Neila Baumilienė on this well-deserved national recognition. Congratulations!

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Th 11th North American Lithuanian Song Festival 2025

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The 11th North American Lithuanian Song Festival

From June 27 to 29, the 11th North American Lithuanian Song Festival, “One Family – One Nation,” took place in Cleveland, Ohio — the first festival of its kind after a decade-long break. The event brought together 1,500 Lithuanian singers from the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world, who performed in harmony. They were joined by 100 dancers and 2,000 attendees from the global Lithuanian community.

The Kazickas Family Foundation places great value on the Lithuanian diaspora, cultural heritage, and the preservation of Lithuanian traditions. For many years, the Foundation has supported North American Lithuanian Song and Dance Festivals. KFF Vilnius office director Domantė Howes attended this year’s celebration.

The first such festival outside Lithuania was held in Chicago in 1956, continuing a cherished interwar tradition and encouraging the Lithuanian community abroad to support the country’s fight for independence.

The Song Festival is recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity and is included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Sincere thanks to the organizers, sponsors, and all Lithuanians around the world who helped bring this celebration to life!

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VMU Students Awarded the Dr. V. and S. Čepukėnas Scholarship for Promoting Francophone Culture

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VMU Students Awarded the Dr. V. and S. Čepukėnas Scholarship for Promoting Francophone Culture

On June 23rd, the Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas Named Scholarships were awarded for the third time at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). This scholarship is granted to students for their outstanding contribution to the promotion and dissemination of the French language and Francophone culture in society.

The Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas Named Scholarship at VMU was established on the initiative of alumna Neila Baumilienė, Executive Director of the Kazickas Family Foundation (New York branch), with support from the foundation itself. Financial support is also provided by the Čepukėnas daughters, Rasa and Milda. The scholarship was created to honor the Čepukėnas family’s legacy and contribution.

This year, the scholarship was awarded to five recipients: Raimonda Mc Geever, a graduate of the Faculty of Humanities in Foreign Languages and Cultures: Francophone Studies; Karolina Žilytė, a master’s student in Diplomacy and International Relations at the Faculty of Political Science and Diplomacy; Raminta Dimšaitė, a bachelor’s student in Italian Studies and Romance Languages at the Faculty of Humanities; and Daria Livshyts and Aliya Zhumabayeva, bachelor’s students in Business Administration at the Faculty of Economics and Management.

The scholarships were presented during the Faculty of Humanities’ graduation ceremony. They were awarded by the initiators and patrons of the scholarship: Neila Baumilienė, Executive Director of the Kazickas Family Foundation’s New York branch, and the Čepukėnas’ daughters, Milda Krivickienė and Rasa Čepukėnaitė, along with Almantė Meškauskienė, Deputy Director of the VMU Institute of Foreign Languages.

Before the official award ceremony, the recipients met with the scholarship founders for an informal gathering and conversation. The students and graduate shared personal stories about how they first encountered the French language, what inspired them to study it, and how they plan to use the scholarship support for meaningful development. Neila Baumilienė, the scholarship initiator and VMU alumna, also shared how, as a student, she came to know both Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas, and how the idea for the scholarship was born.

About Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas

Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas were long-standing lecturers at Vytautas Magnus University and devoted patriots of Lithuania. Throughout their professional lives, they actively participated in civic life, engaged in philanthropic work, and provided support to those with limited access to education.

Dr. Vaclovas Čepukėnas was a Doctor of Psychology, a French language lecturer in both school and university settings, and an active participant in Lithuania’s armed resistance. During World War II, he served as a volunteer fighter with the Homeland Defense Group. For his civic contributions, he was awarded the Medal of the Founders of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.

Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnienė held a doctorate in the humanities, was a professor of French at VMU, and was among the university’s early and most devoted educators after its re-establishment.

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Birželio 17 d. įteikta kalbininko Petro Būtėno ir jo mokinės Aleksandros Kalvėnaitės-Kazickienės, atminimo premija. Šių metų laureatas – kalbininkas, akademinės ir visuomeninės lituanistinės veiklos puoselėtojas, akad. prof. habil. dr. Bonifacas Stundžia.

Literacy Award Ceremony in Memory of the linguist P. Butenas and his student A. Kazickas

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Literacy Award Ceremony in Memory of the linguist P. Butenas and his student A. Kazickas

On June 17th, the annual award in memory of linguist Petras Butėnas and his student, philanthropist Alexandra Kalvenaite-Kazickas, was presented to distinguished linguist, active public figure, and academic – Prof. Habil. Dr. Bonifacas Stundžia.

The laureate was honored for his outstanding research in Baltic linguistics, especially accentology, his significant contribution to the codification of standard Lithuanian accentuation, mentorship of young scholars, promotion of international Baltic studies, and his long-standing civic work for Lithuanian linguistic and cultural heritage.

Congratulations, Professor!

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This unique summer internship and modern Lithuania discovery program is designed for youth of Lithuanian descent living abroad. It stands out as one of the most prominent initiatives uniting young people of Lithuanian heritage from around the world—bringing them to Lithuania not only to explore their roots but also to contribute to the country's future and grow personally.

“Bring Together Lithuania 2025” Initiative Welcomes Diaspora Youth to Discover Modern Lithuania

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“Bring Together Lithuania 2025” Initiative Welcomes Diaspora Youth to Discover Modern Lithuania

At the beginning of June, the eighth season of the Bring Together Lithuania program was ceremoniously launched at the Kazickas Family Residence in Vilnius. This unique summer internship and modern Lithuania discovery program is designed for youth of Lithuanian descent living abroad.

It stands out as one of the most prominent initiatives uniting young people of Lithuanian heritage from around the world—bringing them to Lithuania not only to explore their roots but also to contribute to the country’s future and grow personally.

This year, over 30 young professionals have arrived in Lithuania from the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Uruguay, New Zealand, and various European countries. Over the course of six weeks, they will take part in hands-on internships at leading Lithuanian companies, NGOs, and government institutions, while also engaging in cultural, educational, and community events.

Participants will intern at a variety of leading organizations, including: Alliance for Recruitment, Architecture Fund, Artscape, 8 Drambliai, Alter Domus, Baltic Environmental Forum, BROSWARM, Delta Biosciences, Ministry of the Economy and Innovation, Elinta Group, Eleving Group, Gutsaga Technologies, Ignitis Group, Innovation Agency, Invest Lithuania, Invalda INVL Asset Management, Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania, Marė Audė, Nord Security, Republican Vilnius University Hospital, TBWA agency, Transparency International Lithuania, UNESCO City of Literature, among others.

At the official opening of the program, participants were welcomed by Program Director and Kazickas Family Foundation Communications Lead Kamilė Perminė and Project Manager Monika Zavistanavičiūtė. They encouraged the young attendees to explore Lithuania with curiosity, form meaningful connections, and share ideas that can contribute to the country’s progress.

“This year we received more than 130 applications from youth of Lithuanian descent worldwide – a record number since the program began. In Lithuania, we welcome the most motivated, curious, and passionate young people who choose not only to reconnect with their heritage this summer but also to help shape today’s Lithuania. They are becoming part of a growing global Lithuanian youth community – one that chooses to engage, take action, and find meaning in their identity through participation. This inspires all of us – those living in Lithuania and those still finding their way here,” said Kamilė Perminė, Program Director.

The program is initiated and supported by the Kazickas Family Foundation, with ongoing support since its beginning from the Lithuanian Foundation, entrepreneur and innovator Vladas Lašas, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania. Its expansion is also actively supported by the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation.

More Than Just Professional Experience – A Deeper Understanding of Lithuania

Participants of Bring Together Lithuania will not only gain valuable professional experience but will also be introduced to Lithuania’s cultural and civic life. The young people will visit the Presidential Palace, Government, and Parliament, and will meet with leaders in business, culture, and technology. The program also includes visits to both major cities and regions of Lithuania to showcase the country’s diversity and modern development.

A Growing Community and Long-Term Connection with Lithuania

Since its inception in 2018, the initiative has brought together more than 150 participants from around the world. Many of them continue to maintain strong ties with Lithuania—some have chosen to live, work, study, or serve in the military here. Others remain active in diaspora communities and global Lithuanian youth activities. Over the years, the alumni network has become a solid foundation for a global Lithuanian network.

Bring Together Lithuania is unique not only in reconnecting diaspora youth with their roots but also in encouraging them to become active citizens, building bridges between Lithuania and the world.

The program is focused on long-term value creation—young people are encouraged not only to discover Lithuania but to bring forward ideas that can help shape the country’s future. According to the organizers, the initiative continues to grow in both participant numbers and the diversity of partnering organizations. This reflects the strengthening bond between the diaspora and Lithuania and a sincere desire to be part of the nation’s future.

More information: www.bringtogether.lt

Photo credits: Giedrius Matulaitis and Bring Together LT

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Today we celebrate the memory of Alexandra Kalvenas Kazickas who was born 105 years ago, June 17, 1920.

Mass and Concert in Memory of Aleksandra Kazickienė

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Mass and Concert in Memory of Aleksandra Kazickienė

Today we celebrate the memory of Alexandra Kalvenas Kazickas who was born 105 years ago, June 17, 1920.

She was a devoted wife and mother of five children. She served as a helpmate to her husband Juozas P. Kazickas (1918-2014) through the tumultuous war years in Lithuania, then in the refugee camps in Germany, and as an immigrant to a new country, America.

Her long life, filled with so many varied experiences, travel and adventure, was in many ways extraordinary, but today we remember her more for those qualities that give true meaning to a life well-lived – her love of her family, her patriotism to her homeland, her loyalty to her many friends and her humility, graciousness and philanthropic generosity.

Even at the most unsettled and difficult times, she kept her faith in God, never failing to express her gratitude for His many blessings.

As she wrote in her diary 70 years ago:

“I have my home, my garden, my beloved corner, my dear children… We are so fortunate, especially me, and I thank you, God, for that good fortune… Dear God, you are unbelievably good to me… I am very happy with my beloved husband and my wonderful children… Thank you, God, for the happiness.”

Alexandra died on June 17, 2011. She was 91 years old.

The family thanks, prof. Renata Marcinkute Lesieur for the wonderful organ music we hear today, prof. Irena Milkevičiūtė, prof. Vytautas Juozapaitis and Aija Jermoloviča for their glorious singing, and Father Lionginas Virbalas for the Holy Mass.

Jurate, Joseph, Michael and John Kazickas, 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren

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Baltic Fundraising Summit 2025

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Baltic Fundraising Summit 2025

The Kazickas Family Foundation is proud to support the Fundraising Summit 2025, organized by Baltic Fundraising Hub. It is created to strengthen the fundraising, communication, and leadership capacities of NGOs in Lithuania. The event brought together more than 200 participants, fostering a dynamic space for growth and collaboration.

This unique event provided a valuable platform for learning, networking, and exchanging best practices, empowering NGOs with the tools and knowledge needed to grow and make a greater impact.

For the second consecutive year, KFF awarded 30 tickets to our grantee organizations. Beyond financial support, KFF is committed to the long-term growth of its partners by investing in opportunities for continuous learning, connection, and collaboration.

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Closing event of the 11th season of Youth Can program

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Closing Event of the 11th Season of Youth Can Program

Around 150 participants from various Lithuanian towns and villages gathered at the President Valdas Adamkus Sports Centre in Kaunas to celebrate the closing event of the season. The day featured activities designed to encourage participants to step out of their comfort zones, boost self-confidence, and foster a strong sense of community.

During the event, both organizers and participants expressed heartfelt gratitude to the coaches for their dedication and hard work throughout the season. Organizers also congratulated the graduating participants, for whom this phase has been a meaningful part of their personal growth journey.

The Kazickas Family Foundation is the program’s founding sponsor and main partner.d alumna Eglė Žilinskaitė hosted the event, while Kaunas Žalgiris athletic trainer Arnas Ikamas energized the crowd. Eleven alumni also volunteered, showcasing the program’s enduring spirit of community and continuity.

Youth Can currently operates in 11 Lithuanian towns: Alsėdžiai, Ariogala, Išlaužas, Joniškėlis, Kybartai, Miroslavas, Pumpėnai, Raguvėlė, Seirijai, Šaukėnai, and Veisiejai.

The Kazickas Family Foundation is the founding sponsor and main partner of the program.

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Blossom of Hope Gala Evening

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Blossom of Hope Gala Evening

We are proud to support the Blossom of Hope Gala Evening—organized by the International Women’s Association of Vilnius (IWAV)—as one of this year’s sponsors. This impactful event raises critical awareness and funding for breast cancer prevention and care in Lithuania.

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Lithuania, with 1,700 new cases each year. While early detection can save lives, the country continues to face one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in Europe.

For 17 years, Blossom of Hope has raised over €380,000—funding lifesaving medical supplies and providing free screenings for women across Lithuania.

In support of this mission, KFF also donated the book Odyssey of Hope (“Vilties kelias”), signed by Jūratė Kazickaitė, that were sold in the silent auction.

You can also contribute by donating or becoming a sponsor. Your support helps provide essential medical supplies—like biopsy needles and breast tissue markers—that enable early diagnosis and treatment.

Every contribution makes a difference: https://www.iwavilnius.com/blossom-of-hope

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Summer Internships in Lithuania

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Summer Internship in Lithuania

Lithuanian National Foundation and the Kazickas Family Foundation invite students to apply for summer internships!

In partnership with the National Foundation, we invite students of Lithuanian descent studying abroad to apply for paid summer internships at non-governmental organizations in Lithuania.

This is a great opportunity to not only gain valuable professional experience but also to contribute to the work of inspiring NGOs in Lithuania, including:

Bring Together Lithuania, Innovation Valley, Global Lithuanian Leaders, Lithuanian Culture Institute, Youth Affairs Agency, Center for Equality Advancement, Transparency International, Inconvenient Films, Lithuanian Centre for Human Rights, and LiJOT.

To apply, please submit:

Resume / CV
A motivational letter

Applications should be sent directly to the contact person listed by the NGO.

Application deadline: May 16, 2025

You can find more details about available internship opportunities here: www.tautosfondas.org/stazuotes/

Scholarship: 600 EUR/month

If you have any questions, please contact vilnius@tautosfondas.org

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