Salesian Civil Association for Youth and Work celebrates 30 years

(MissionNewswire) For 30 years, the Salesian-run Civil Association for Youth and Work has played a fundamental role in the education and support of youth in Venezuela*, including those who have dropped out of school and faced violence in the country. Salesians provide these youth an opportunity to access technical and vocational training to gain the skills for a brighter future.

Students attend classroom training and are able to access the hands-on training needed to succeed in the workforce. Because of the practical and technical skills youth learn, some students have been able to open their own businesses after graduation. Others make a smooth classroom-to-work transition and are able to earn a stable living to support themselves and their families.

The organization is also focused on violence prevention. Through workshops, conferences, and activities, Salesians promote peace, tolerance and respect among all. This helps youth learn conflict resolution, how to problem solve effectively, and how to get along with the people at school and at work. Students leave with the life skills needed to succeed.

A Salesian missionary said, “The Civil Association for Youth and Work network has educational centers throughout the country, from urban and rural communities, that provide youth a safe space where they can learn, grow and dream. Despite the challenges that Venezuela faces, we remain firm in our mission and celebrate with great joy the organization’s 30th anniversary of commitment to youth. We hope it continues to be a beacon of hope for generations to come.”

Salesian missionaries have been living and working in Venezuela long before the country’s political and economic crisis began. They operate schools, youth centers, and other programs that support poor youth and their families.

An estimated 50% of Venezuela’s 28 million people are currently living in poverty, and essential goods such as food and medicine are scarce. While this is a decline from the year before, the population still continues to suffer from extreme inflation. Since 2014, 7.7 million people have fled as refugees to neighboring countries to find work and a more stable way of life.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Venezuela – “Civil Association for Youth and Work”: 30 years of formation for work

Salesian Missions – Venezuela

UNHCR – Venezuela situation 

*Any goods, services or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.