by InTrieste
In a press conference held at the Municipality Council Chamber of Trieste Thursday morning, local officials unveiled the ambitious “Support for Youth in Sports” project. Spearheaded by Massimo Tognolli, the municipal councillor for Social Policies, the initiative aims to foster inclusivity and opportunity for children and adolescents through athletic engagement.
Joined by key figures including Annalisa Castellano, head of the Municipal Social Service, and representatives from the dynamic “Trieste entra in gioco APS” association, such as President Alessandro Busetti and Treasurer Stefano Meroi, the conference highlighted the collaborative effort behind the endeavor.
Councillor Tognolli voiced his enthusiasm, stating, “Today, we present a remarkable endeavor led by the ‘Trieste entra in gioco APS’ association, in partnership with the Pietro Pittini Foundation. The ‘Support for Youth in Sports’ project stands as a testament to the spirit of community, with individuals coming together to champion the cause of inclusivity, particularly through the transformative power of sports.”
He continued, “This initiative is founded on the belief that sports serve as a catalyst for social inclusion and personal growth, offering a path of redemption for those facing adversity. With €15,000 allocated to this noble cause, we have empowered approximately 40 young individuals to access diverse sporting disciplines, thanks to the support of 21 sports associations. It’s a testament to the strength of our community and the impact of collaborative efforts in advancing social welfare.”
The collaboration between the “Trieste entra in gioco APS” association and the Department of Social Services and Policies of the Municipality of Trieste underscores the commitment to empowering youth from economically and socially vulnerable backgrounds. With a total budget of approximately €15,000, supplemented by a generous €5,000 contribution from the Pietro Pittini Foundation, the project aims to provide young people with positive outlets for growth and development.
Now in its third season since its inception in 2021, the initiative has garnered widespread support from local sports associations and clubs, offering young participants access to a diverse range of athletic activities, including soccer, basketball, dance, and more.
Annalisa Castellano emphasized the project’s broader impact, stating, “For the Municipal Social Service, this initiative is not just about sports; it’s about fostering a culture of inclusivity and addressing issues such as bullying and cyberbullying through targeted educational programs.”
The project, which kicks off annually in September, serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration in driving social change. With the support of dedicated partners, including the Pietro Pittini Foundation and a network of local sports associations, the initiative continues to make strides in promoting a more inclusive and promising future for Trieste’s youth.
As Councillor Tognolli concluded, expressing gratitude to all involved parties, the “Support for Youth in Sports” initiative represents a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
