Building pathways toward independence also means creating tangible opportunities to learn a trade, put one’s abilities to the test and take on an active role in the community. For people with disabilities, access to training and work experiences can represent an important step toward greater independence and social participation. This is the goal of Borgo Blu Cooperativa Sociale, founded in 2024 from the experience of a family that transformed its own journey with autism into a project open to the community. In May 2025, the cooperative opened the Borgo Blu center in Borgata Costiera, Mazara del Vallo, inside a former hotel, offering children and young people opportunities for social interaction and pathways toward independence alongside care and therapy services. This is where “Dolci ribelli” was born, a project designed to promote the employment inclusion of people with disabilities through the creation of a cookie bakery within Borgo Blu. A warehouse that currently needs renovation will be transformed into a fully equipped production space, where participants will be able to develop basic skills with the support of pastry chefs, nutritionists and social and educational professionals. Production will focus on reinterpreted traditional Sicilian cookies, highlighting local ingredients and careful craftsmanship. The goal is to develop the cookie bakery over time into a social enterprise brand capable of creating employment opportunities and ensuring continuity for inclusion pathways. In the future, the bakery may also expand its training role and welcome other people interested in learning a craft related to artisanal food production. Our contribution will support part of the renovation work and the outfitting of the cookie bakery, helping transform an unused space into a place dedicated to training, employment and independence. Details Location: Mazara del Vallo, Province of Trapani Association: Borgo Blu Cooperativa Sociale Beneficiaries: 10–12 adults with disabilities Contribution: 150,000 euros Period: July 2026 – October 2027
