Fattore J, the experience of care and awareness of Carlo Urbani students
The new volunteering experience at the Rome headquarters of the Progetto Itaca association (Via Nomentana 512) ended with enthusiasm and participation. Ten students from classes 5ª D and 4ª E of the Carlo Urbani high school in Ostia were involved in the Fattore J project [see the news item The journey of care to Ithaca].
Following the success of the first edition, Progetto Itaca renewed its participation in the initiative, welcoming the students to awareness-raising and social inclusion activities aimed at people with mental health issues. On 20 and 21 May, led by Cristina Raho, director of the association, and Gaia Buono, head of the work area, the students were able to experience a real “typical day” alongside the members, patients considered ready to take part in recreational and pre-work activities at the facility.
From a shared breakfast to the assignment of tasks in the active workshops (gardening, cooking, office work, music), the students took part in all phases of the day, interacting with the members and contributing with willingness and respect.
‘It was a wonderful and intense experience,’ said the association's representatives, ‘and we were all very happy to host the students, who blended in well with the members and helped us with various activities.’
The students also spoke enthusiastically about this opportunity for authentic exchange:
"It was a constructive, interesting and stimulating experience. You get to know lots of people with ideas and characteristics that are different from your own. I'd like to do it again outside of school," says Chiara.
The Fattore J project, promoted by the Fondazione Mondo Digitale in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Italia, aims to develop empathy, awareness and social responsibility in young people, while also offering concrete opportunities to encounter the world of volunteering and the complexity of the healthcare experience.
