Social inclusion begins with access to spaces where people can develop skills, build relationships, and explore pathways toward greater independence. For people on the autism spectrum and people with other disabilities, dedicated services and opportunities to participate in community life are essential to promoting well-being, self-determination, and social and employment inclusion. To help strengthen these opportunities, we chose to support the “Workshop for Inclusion: L’Aquila Social Hub” project, promoted by Autismo Abruzzo APS. For more than ten years, the association has worked throughout the Abruzzo region to foster independence among people with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum, by supporting their social and employment inclusion and creating opportunities for them to develop new skills. Over the years, the association has built a strong network of partnerships with the Abruzzo Region; the municipalities of L’Aquila, Teramo, and Pescara; several Italian and multinational companies, including Amazon, Carrefour, and Micron; the Universities of Chieti-Pescara and L’Aquila; the Academy of Fine Arts of L’Aquila; the L’Aquila University Student Services Agency; and schools of all types and grade levels. L’Aquila Social Hub builds on this commitment by creating a space for workshops in a variety of areas, including communication, art, painting and decoration, theater, photography, and video, as well as opportunities for participants to socialize. The activities will take place in a multipurpose center made available rent-free by ADSU, the L’Aquila University Student Services Agency. In partnership with ASP, the L’Aquila Public Social Services Agency, the project will also establish an information desk in the city’s historic center. The initiative will involve 20 adolescents and adults between the ages of 16 and 40 who are on the autism spectrum or have other disabilities and primarily live in the city and province of L’Aquila. At least 40 family members and caregivers will also be involved through the counseling and support desk, training sessions, and opportunities for discussion and knowledge sharing. Our contribution will support the furnishing and adaptation of the spaces, the purchase of equipment and materials for the workshops, the launch of the information desk, and part of the costs associated with the educators and specialized tutors who will guide participants throughout the program. Creating spaces for people to meet, learn, and participate means providing people with disabilities with greater opportunities for independence and inclusion while helping build more welcoming and accessible communities. Details Location: L’Aquila Association: Autismo Abruzzo APS Beneficiaries: 20 adolescents and adults between the ages of 16 and 40 who are on the autism spectrum or have other disabilities, as well as more than 40 family members and caregivers Contribution: €100,000 Duration: July 2026–July 2027
