PPG volunteers transform flood-damaged preschool in Poland 

For Marcin Dębowski, PPG site lead, Global Business Services, a recent COLORFUL COMMUNITIES® project in Lewin Brzeski, Poland, went beyond applying paint to walls. Rather, it was a meaningful response to an urgent need in the local community. 

One hundred PPG employee and community volunteers agreed, joining the project to restore Publiczne Przedszkole nr 1, a preschool which serves 120 children and staff, after it was severely impacted by flooding in 2024. 

The preschool experienced extensive damage when floodwaters destroyed its basement cloakroom, outdoor garden and performance areas. In response, our Global Business Services (GBS) team marked 10 years of the Colorful Communities program by transforming the preschool.  

“By combining PPG’s resources, our employees’ volunteer spirit, and the creativity of local partners, we not only repaired flood damage but created a more inspiring environment where children can grow, learn and thrive,” said Dębowski. 

From renovating the school’s basement to rebuilding the outdoor area that is central to the school’s community events, the team used paint products fit for a preschool with features like scrub resistance and excellent coverage. 

Meanwhile, artist Rafał Kłosiński together with volunteers created a mural along the fence, depicting the lower sections of trees that seamlessly align with the trunks and foliage behind the fence to form the illusion of a complete forest. Volunteers also revitalized the sensory path, restored and replanted the gardens, repainted indoor and outdoor furniture and fences, and renovated a pergola to provide shade for outdoor activities. 

“On behalf of the town of Lewin Brzeski, I would like to thank PPG for its partnership in our community, as well as the volunteers for their contribution and for sharing what is most precious – their hearts,” said Artur Kotara, Mayor of Lewin Brzeski. “This initiative marked the culmination of renovation work at the facility after the flood, truly the ‘icing on the cake.’ Thanks to this effort, children can now return to learning activities in spaces that are not only renovated, but also colorful, creative and welcoming.” 

ThisColorful Communities project is one of 10 global flagship projects in 2025 celebrating the 10-year milestone of PPG’sColorful Communities program. Learn more about the program.