by Guisela Chiarella
Among the dignitaries and organizations present at the arrival ceremony of the Amerigo Vespucci, Italy’s historic naval training ship, one group stood out for its humanitarian mission. The Francesca Rava Foundation, a longstanding partner of the Italian Navy, was in attendance to mark the occasion and reaffirm its commitment to supporting vulnerable children worldwide.
“We are so happy to be here today to celebrate the arrival of the Vespucci because we are also a humanitarian partner of this iconic vessel,” said Maria Vittoria Rava, chairwoman of the Francesca Rava Foundation.
For years, the foundation has organized visits for children from its orphanages in Latin America and other parts of the world to step aboard the Vespucci, offering them a rare and enriching experience. “We’ve traveled around the world, bringing children from our orphanages to visit the Vespucci, giving them a special day filled with wonder and joy,” Rava explained. “These are children who have faced immense hardship, and this experience allows them to dream beyond their circumstances.”
Looking ahead, the foundation has planned an ambitious tour across Italy, where it will arrange for children living in shelters to visit the Vespucci at each of its stops. Volunteers will accompany the children, ensuring they have an uplifting experience on board.
“In Italy, we support numerous shelters for abandoned children,” Rava said. “At every marina where the Vespucci docks, we will organize visits for these children, giving them a day of happiness amid the difficulties they face. Volunteers will join them to create a truly memorable experience.”
The Francesca Rava Foundation has long been dedicated to aiding vulnerable children, both in Italy and abroad, through education, medical assistance, and social support programs. By partnering with the Italian Navy and the Amerigo Vespucci, the organization continues to blend humanitarian outreach with the power of shared cultural heritage and national pride.
