Associazione Don Bosco 2000 - Impresa Sociale

The Association Don Bosco 2000 - Social Enterprise was born in1998 in Piazza Armerina (EN), a rural town in the middle of Sicily, Italy. The association's main mission is to promote human development, education, and social inclusion through solidarity and international cooperation. Since its establishment, Don Bosco 2000 has worked and dedicated its resources to the creation of partnership networks and the planning of interventions for the development of the territory and people, with particular reference to the weakest and most disadvantaged sections of society, including children and unaccompanied minors. At Don Bosco 2000, our work is structured around four key pillars of action: 1. Reception and Integration We manage reception centers throughout Sicily, offering shelter, care, legal and psychological assistance to migrants and refugees. Our ultimate goal is to support each individual toward full social, economic, and housing autonomy. We do this by guiding our beneficiaries through personalized training paths and professional integration, helping them access stable employment opportunities. We are especially committed to protecting and supporting victims of human trafficking and severe forms of exploitation, offering specialized care and reintegration programs. 2. Social Enterprise and local Development We create professional and employment opportunities for the people we welcome—often in symbolic places such as confiscated properties formerly owned by the mafia. Our social enterprises span several fields: Sustainable agriculture; Ethical fashion; Hospitality and tourism; Non-formal education for children, including inclusive recreational activities for vulnerable youth and children with disabilities; Cultural heritage management, including a Museum of Legality and Anti-Mafia, where we address topics like food security and democratic principles; Community engagement and cultural programming. Indeed, our work is deeply rooted in our territory: we operate in a rural area of Southern Italy, deeply affected by depopulation and the lack of opportunities for young people. We aim to reverse this trend by creating spaces for youth leadership and innovation. 3. Volunteering and Sport Volunteering and sports are the beating heart of Don Bosco 2000. We promote civic engagement, inclusion, and accessibility by involving young people in local and international volunteer projects, and through sports initiatives that foster participation, resilience, and teamwork. 4. International Development Cooperation For over 10 years, we have implemented development projects in Senegal, Gambia, and Mali. Our efforts focus on: Building medical dispensaries in rural villages with no access to basic health systems; Supporting children in need through nutrition, healthcare, safe spaces, and schooling; Implementing circular cooperation projects that address the root causes of forced migration. We empower young people to stay and thrive in their countries by helping them create income-generating activities in sustainable agriculture, farming and small businesses, building a new generation of conscious local entrepreneurs.