For many unaccompanied foreign minors and adolescents who have experienced abandonment or educational poverty, the transition to adulthood is particularly challenging. Without professional skills and real employment opportunities, the risk of social exclusion becomes even greater. For this reason, we have chosen to support the Taste Lab project promoted by the Opera Nazionale per le Città dei Ragazzi Foundation, a legally recognized ecclesiastical organization based in Rome. The Foundation welcomes and supports young people living in vulnerable circumstances by providing housing, healthcare, social services, educational and recreational activities, and vocational training, guiding them along a genuine path toward social inclusion. Located on Via della Pisana in Rome, the Città dei Ragazzi (City of Youth) is a residential campus currently comprising four apartment-style housing units managed by a team of educators. Accredited by the Municipality of Rome, these independent living facilities provide a safe and supportive environment where minors can develop personally, ethically, and socially. Each year, they accommodate approximately 40 adolescents. Every young resident follows an Individual Educational Plan, developed together with the Rome Municipal Department of Social Services, which oversees its implementation. These personalized plans are designed to provide each participant with the skills and tools needed to build the greatest possible level of independence. The Taste Lab project aims to renovate the kitchen and dining facilities at Città dei Ragazzi, transforming them into a vocational training center for the hospitality and food service industry. The goal is to create a space that also serves the wider community while generating skills, employment opportunities, and social inclusion. The project focuses on two main areas: Renovating and modernizing the kitchen and adjacent dining hall, making them suitable for entry-level culinary training courses and for hosting community events. Expanding the Foundation's vocational training program by making full use of these two complementary learning environments. The training courses will be open both to young people living at the residential community and to external participants. Led by two professional chefs, the program will consist of two 30-hour modules offered every six months. During the first year, up to 16 students will participate and receive a professional training certificate upon completion. Starting in 2027, the program will have the capacity to train approximately 30 participants each year. Participants who successfully complete the program will also have access to internships and employment opportunities with restaurants and hospitality businesses partnering with the Foundation. Our contribution made it possible to carry out the essential infrastructure upgrades required to launch the project, transforming an everyday space into a place where skills, opportunities, and—above all—a future can be built. Details Location: Rome, Italy Organization: Opera Nazionale per le Città dei Ragazzi Foundation Beneficiaries: 16 students during the first year and approximately 30 students annually starting in 2027 Contribution: €90,000 Period: January 2026 – April 2027
