Education provides a second chance for a better life
Amidst the vibrancy of Naples, Italy, there’s a hidden gem that most residents and visitors don’t see. It’s the Don Bosco Center, a place where migrants, runaway youth, abandoned kids, and school dropouts are welcomed with open arms.
The Center fulfills the immediate needs of these at-risk children and young people with safe housing and nutritious meals in a caring environment. And it provides the opportunity to gain a meaningful education that will lead to promising opportunities down the road.
The Center’s impact is lifechanging. Take Luca, for instance. Today, he’s a thriving 23-year-old young man who has come a long way since his childhood in Campania. His youth was marred by episodes of violence and bullying which led to his arrest and expulsion from school.
Luca was taken by police to the Don Bosco Center where his outlook dramatically improved. He quickly made close connections with the staff and began taking courses in cooking, mechanics and logistics. His hard work and determination have earned him a certificate as a chemical expert and today he’s showing his gratitude by helping other troubled young people get their lives on the right track.
In addition to serving needy youth from Italy, the Center has been a place of refuge for hundreds of migrant and runaway children. “Kids arrive at the docks looking for safety and better opportunities,” explains Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions. “At first, they’re desperate to find food. Then they loiter around with no one noticing or caring about them,” he adds.
Eventually, the children are discovered by the police or someone from the Don Bosco community and then taken to the Center. It’s the first step in a journey of healing, learning and growing.
The Don Bosco Center in Naples is just one example of how we are offering second chances for a better life through compassionate guidance and beneficial education … thanks to caring friends like you.
A promising path for youth in Nigeria
The St. John Mary Vianney Parish – a Salesian community in Kubwa, Nigeria – is bustling with activity. “The parish is a comprehensive center with educational and social programs for the poor,” explains Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions. “Special attention is given to young people who will benefit the most from the opportunities made possible by our missionaries.”
The parish includes the new Don Bosco Technical Institute where young people can gain useful skills in electrical systems, renewable energy, construction, plumbing, tailoring, catering, computer technology, and communications.
“Many industrial complexes in the area are searching for skilled workers,” says Fr. Mike. “Vocational training offered at the Institute allows young people immediate access to stable jobs.”
In addition to the Don Bosco Technical Institute, our missionaries in Nigeria offer a wide range of support services that benefit a diverse population of impoverished ethnic groups from all over the country.
An overwhelming need for after-school programs, cultural activities, and skills training have put a strain on the parish’s facilities — and resources are stretched thin. Thankfully, a new community center is under construction to meet the growing demand.
“The new large spaces will allow our Salesian missionaries to create a spirit of peaceful coexistence which breaks down ethnic barriers and makes social integrations easier,” added Fr. Mike.
In a country plagued by poverty and suffering – which are steadily worsening – our missionaries in Nigeria are providing a ray of hope and a promising path toward a brighter future for deserving children and young people who desperately need it.
