Mission and purpose
Freedom Fund advances transparency, accountability and public understanding of election administration through strictly nonpartisan observer training, independent observation, research, public education and evidence-based reporting. It also supports educational work concerning freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, freedom of conscience, peaceful expression and civil society.
The organization’s election-related work is institutional rather than partisan. Freedom Fund does not endorse, oppose, rate or coordinate with candidates or political parties. Election-related projects are intended to evaluate processes and institutions under neutral, pre-established criteria.
Operating principles
Independence
Findings should follow the evidence and stated methodology rather than the interests of a donor, political actor, government, campaign or outside organization.
Nonpartisanship
Observers and institutional communications must remain neutral toward candidates, political parties and electoral outcomes. Personal political activity by individuals must remain separate from Freedom Fund’s institutional work.
Evidence and transparency
Public reports should distinguish direct observation, official records, verified third-party information, expert analysis, allegations and unresolved information. Material adverse findings should receive reasonable verification and, where appropriate, an opportunity for a relevant authority to respond.
Leadership
President & Director
Mike Calamus
Mike Calamus serves as President and Director of Freedom Fund Inc. His public-interest work has included election-observation initiatives, research, international conferences, public-records work and engagement concerning transparency, democratic institutions and fundamental freedoms.
Freedom Fund’s institutional work is governed by its nonpartisan policies regardless of the personal views of any director, officer, contributor or partner.
International engagement & recognition
Fidelis Legibus — “Faithful to the Laws”
Recognition by the Lawyers for Poland Association
In 2025, the Lawyers for Poland Association honored Mike Calamus with the Fidelis Legibus medal. The recognition reflected the awarding association’s assessment of his international civic engagement concerning democratic processes, election transparency and freedom of expression.
The award is presented here as a biographical recognition. It does not imply that Freedom Fund endorses the political positions of the awarding organization, any political party, candidate, government or opposition group.
International engagement & media
Freedom Fund’s public-interest work includes dialogue with journalists, researchers, civic organizations and public figures who engage with questions involving election administration, election technology, public accountability and democratic institutions. Photographs document meetings or participation in public events; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of Freedom Fund, its research, or the views of other participants.
Board and officers
Mike Calamus
President & DirectorTeet Maidla
Secretary & DirectorEdward Jones
Treasurer & DirectorOrganizational status
Freedom Fund Inc. is a Maryland nonprofit corporation. This website does not state that the organization has already received IRS recognition under Section 501(c)(3), and it does not characterize contributions as federally tax-deductible unless such recognition has been received and is applicable.