500 participants of national congress gain knowledge to share with youth.

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (July 2, 2025) Don Bosco’s Argentine Explorers were able to host a national congress to discuss topics that impact Don Bosco scouting in Argentina thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Nearly 500 people met during the three-day meeting, focusing on topics important to the Salesians’ faith. The group also partook in training workshops and music, among other activities.

Participants in the meeting are now able to take the knowledge they learned and bring it to educate youth in the Salesian Scouting Movement.

A Salesian noted, “The youth involved in Don Bosco Scouting are among the poorest adolescents, who have fewer possibilities for the future, are more exposed to danger, and have a greater need to be loved and supported. Our goal is to educate those working with scouts to make sure they have the information they need to do their jobs effectively.”

The Salesian added, “The support provided by Salesian Missions served to significantly reduce the costs of participation of all involved and ensure a quality meeting. From the facilities and the meals to the materials and everything related to the methodology and logistics, we had an enriching experience valued by all.”

Salesian missionaries in Argentina and around the globe provide education and social development programs to help poor youth and their families achieve self-sufficiency and have hope for a better life. Through schools, vocational and technical training programs, youth centers, medical clinics, and more, Salesians are ensuring youth have the services and programs they need to thrive.

More than a quarter of the people in Argentina live in conditions of poverty with no formal employment and poor-quality education, according to the World Bank. The country’s high school dropout rate is close to 37% and youth account for a third of those unemployed. Almost 12% of children ages 5-17 are working instead of being in school and 20% need government assistance. Many face malnutrition, a lack of clean water and sewage, and inadequate housing.

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