March was an intense month, full of encounters and new sparks that illuminated shared paths, intertwined stories, cultivated dreams.
In every place, in every activity, we recognized that glow that comes when we truly meet, when differences are transformed into bridges and the desire to build a world without borders takes concrete form.

Drawing new paths: Remix workshop in Milan

In Milan, in collaboration with the Aisha Project, we experienced an intense and authentic day of intercultural animation. In the first workshop, led by ASCS, we drew maps of our migration experiences: key episodes, obstacles, resources. Every line, every color, every word was a living story. In the second workshop, led by Sara Sayed, we asked, “Where is our safe place?” Between silences, hesitations and certainties, deep emotions emerged.

Together we have created a web of experiences from which to embark on new journeys.

Also in the Remix Milano project, during another Remix Workshop event, we gave voice to our multiple identities through photovoice activities and artistic creations.
The complexity of living “in the midst” of multiple cultures emerged as a precious treasure, an interweaving of places, relationships and stories that enrich our being.

Celebrating women who build bridges: Wasi – Milan

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, at the Carmel Church, we celebrated the meeting “Wasi – beyond borders.”

Stories, listening, mutual trust: cultural differences have been transformed into bridges of humanity, while being a woman has been recognized and valued in all its nuances.
Also in the same project, welcoming takes shape with the opening of Wasi counters in Milan. Thanks to the collaboration with City Hall 1, two Wasi desks were started at the Garibaldi and Scaldasole Neighborhood Houses. Listening, orientation, accompaniment: small spaces of integrated welcome that become home, refuge, sparks of community.

Training Course for International Volunteers
At the Carmine Church in Milan, the Training Course for aspiring volunteers and female volunteers eager to get involved in Scalabrinian missions around the world. Three intense weekends of listening, discussion and personal growth, designed to prepare themselves with awareness and passion to set off towards new experiences of service.

Crossover “The Exit Gates from Europe: Calais”
Also in Milan, the Crossover meeting “Europe’s Exit Gates: Calais,” gave voice to the stories of those living on the margins, in border territories. Letizia Santhià recounted her experience of volunteering in Calais, making the invisible visible, and igniting deep reflections on rights, dreams and humanity.

In the area of intercultural animation., work continues to meet with schools and young people. At the Colombatto Institute in Turin, we met with classes in collaboration with the Pastoral Care of Migrants to discuss migration, work and integration. A valuable opportunity to sow awareness and active citizenship among the younger generation. At the Govone Institute in Alba, we proposed. The Game, an intercultural animation activity that, through play and simulation, allowed children to identify with migration paths. It was a powerful experience where play and reflection were intertwined to promote empathy, awareness and inclusion.

In Ventimiglia, however, we crossed the border that is not only geographic, but also cultural, social and human. With “Border Ventimiglia 25” we listened to stories of broken dreams and denied rights, putting ourselves in a unique and very strong border context.

A journey of authenticity and encounter in Amora

In Amora, a stone’s throw from Lisbon, the Pilgrims project brought us together as young people from different roots, but united by the desire to live and share the Scalabrinian charism.

We walked 14 km as pilgrims to Cape Espichel, where the continent meets the ocean. Silence, nature and prayer guided us in a simple, profound experience that left its mark.
At the Quinta da Princesa, the children’s curious smiles made visible how much each encounter can be a whole world to be discovered. Finally, the Carnival party celebrated the joy of being together, without masks.
A small seed was planted: a path that continues.

Scalabrini House 634
Also in Rome, at Casa Scalabrini 634, our commitment continues alongside the children and families welcomed.
In these months, those living in the House are courageously putting themselves on the line to build a better future, working to strengthen their autonomy in work and housing. Finding housing, however, remains a huge challenge, especially for younger people, who face discrimination and a growing housing problem every day. In the past, thanks to the support of so many and so many, we have managed to build a network of solidarity that has enabled many young people to find a decent place to live. Together, we can continue to ignite new possibilities.

March reminded us that every encounter, every word, every gesture can be a spark. A spark that, together with others, ignites dreams capable of changing the world. We remind you that again this year you can light new Sparks of Dreams by by donating your 5×1000 to ASCS, indicating the Tax Code 03133600241 in your tax return. Every story we have told you also comes to life thanks to gestures like this, small but capable of generating big changes.

Keep following us at ascs.co.uk to find out how you can support our projects and be part of a community that believes in the power of dreams. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!