CORE 2 - Challenging Europe_Manual CORE 2 - Challenging Europe | Page 29

PiNA was founded in 1997 following the initiative of the Open Society Institute of Slovenia, with the aim to support the development of a civil society, democratic dialogue and public access to modern tools of information and communication technology (ICT). Since 1997 the mission of PiNA is to offer quality educational, cultural, artistic and research activities in order to promote social development based on individual responsibility, critical thinking and sustainable living. The association is based in Koper, Slovenia and has 9 office employees (bachelor degree in psychology, anthropology, cultural studies, political science and communication science) and 2 multimedia experts running the multimedia centre within the association (filming, editing, design, animation, 3D modulation). PiNA works also with other NGOs, municipalities, schools and other public bodies, institutes, colleges and universities, independent initiatives, international networks and business companies. PiNA's function is to have a positive impact on the targeted population and their orientation in the modern consumer world. With our activities we seek to encourage our surroundings to constantly reflect and critically re-think social norms, opening space for dialogue and discussion on important social issues. We aim to promote a tolerant civic dialogue and critical thinking, but in particular to promote and encourage active participation in the community. All projects implemented by PINA share a common idea - the social impact. PiNA is open to everyone and promotes equality of opportunity as well as active participation in creating its program and activities. It is important for us that people return to us and encourage others to participate as well in the creative process offered by PiNA's projects.