Every change—whether in a code repository or the physical world—demands precision and the right stack. This edition of #SidnetDonations is our way of “debugging” reality, guided by the choice of Emil Maruszczak, a Backend Developer in a project for THG.
Emil, who optimizes global-scale systems daily, selected these open-source and non-profit projects for one reason: they tackle problems at the source, fixing faulty mechanisms where it matters most.
Lazygit
The Git version control system is a staple tool widely used across the international development community. While valued for its ability to seamlessly track changes across code versions, its base form is a simple, text-based tool with a stark interface. Lazygit, created by Jesse Duffield in 2018, simplifies Git commands by introducing intuitive keyboard shortcuts and streamlining version management. This open-source tool quickly won over developers worldwide—earning over 70,000 stars on GitHub and becoming a permanent fixture in the IT landscape.
“As a backend developer, I spend most of my time in the terminal, but having a clear overview of what’s happening in the repositories I work on is essential. Git is the standard for countless projects globally, but the text interface provided by the git command is flat and can be clunky. Lazygit allows you to view local and remote changes from a broader perspective without leaving the terminal—using a clean TUI and Vim-like keybindings,” says Emil.
Lex Nova Animal Legal Protection Foundation
While there is no shortage of aid organizations, animals in need still lack adequate legal protection. Pervasive abuse, “dead” regulations, and shockingly low penalties for violations remain a daily reality. The Lex Nova Animal Legal Protection Foundation takes under its wing those creatures for whom legal representation is hardest to find.
The foundation strives to implement legislative changes and create a functioning animal protection system in Poland. Beyond organizing administrative interventions to compel local governments to act, they also defend the rights of harmed animals in criminal proceedings. Lex Nova members are involved in regular educational campaigns, sit on committees reviewing animal rights cases, and work closely with public administration—including participating in parliamentary work.
Lex Nova volunteers also care for Poland’s stray cat population by organizing foster homes, spaying and neutering programs, and vaccinations through their “Purr Factory” (Fabryka Mruczenia) initiative.
“This year’s winter was exceptionally cold and long, which meant a struggle for survival for many animals. When temperatures drop drastically below zero, every zloty for heating or medical treatment is worth its weight in gold. That’s when help is needed most—after all, there is no nobler gesture than supporting those who cannot ask for it themselves,” Emil explains.
The Lex Nova Foundation accepts donations via the RatujemyZwierzaki.pl portal and publishes ongoing fundraisers, petitions, and news on their Facebook profile (content in Polish).