To create paths of solidarity and support for entering the world of work for young people with disabilities and their families. These are the objectives of G.I.O.I.A., ( JOY in English and acronym for “Young”, “Commitment”, “Employment”, “Inclusion”, “Hospitality”) the project inaugurated in Rome and promoted by the Order of Malta’s Embassy to the Holy See in collaboration with the Order of Malta’s Grand Priory of Rome and the Diversa Arte social cooperative. The project, entirely funded by North American and Italian sponsors, aims to promote the social inclusion and independence of young disabled people by offering them inclusive vocational training in the tourism and hotel sector.
The event was attended by Fra’ John Dunlap, Grand Master of the Order of Malta – accompanied by Grand Commander Fra’ Emmanuel Rousseau, Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, Grand Hospitaller Fra’ Alessandro De Franciscis, Receiver of the Common Treasury Fabrizio Colonna and Card. Gianfranco Ghirlanda, Patron of the Order. The President of the Capitoline Assembly, Svetlana Celli, and the President of the VIII Roman Municipality, Amedeo Ciaccheri, also participated.
The “Holiday Home with Social Purpose”, in Via Ostiense in Rome, is located in an apartment complex belonging to the Grand Priory of Rome, four of which have been completely renovated and adapted to the specific needs of future guests of the Centre. These consist of a reception centre and a house with a dual mission: young disabled people can stay there for gradually increasing periods to experience independent life outside the family, and are also given vocational training and integration in the tourism industry thanks to working in a real Holiday House open to the public and an integral part of the Centre.
The Grand Master of the Order of Malta, Brother John Dunlap, said: “The launch of activities in the Ostiense Centre which hosts the G.I.O.I.A. project is important for the young people who will work and live there. It is also important for the Order of Malta, which is launching a project in Rome, initially small but very close to its original mission. Together with many other programmes worldwide, it reminds us that the Order’s charism does not only involve hospitality and assistance, but also and above all serving the Lord with our work, our serenity, our spirit of brotherhood and with loving our neighbour.”
The young people will be supported by professional and experienced tutors and will enjoy a wide-ranging experience in managing a small holiday apartment, from computer reservations, to preparing the rooms and receiving guests. The project will enable an initial group of 10-12 young people, for a period of up to 3 years, to gradually integrate in society in an inclusive environment and to acquire new skills useful for subsequent entry into the workforce.
