Marika’s Job: LodAbili Project Success Story | Pizzeria Employment

Italian program Empowers Young Woman with Disability Through Inclusive Employment

A groundbreaking initiative in Lodi, italy, is fostering inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, allowing 21-year-old Marika Di Mauro to continue a vital “On the job” training course and build a pathway toward a brighter future.The program, known as LodAbili, is demonstrating the power of collaboration between local organizations and businesses to create real-world experiences and challenge societal perceptions.

LodAbili emerged from a partnership between the Eureka and Mosaico cooperatives, the Municipality of Lodi, local trade associations, and a network of participating businesses. Its core mission is to establish tangible spaces where individuals with disabilities can gain valuable socio-occupational experience and demonstrate their capabilities.

Did you know? – Italy has a long history of supporting disability rights, with laws promoting inclusion in education and employment dating back decades. LodAbili builds on this foundation.

From Summer Project to Enduring Prospect

the current opportunity for Di mauro builds upon a prosperous pilot program, the “Spring” project, initiated by the Lodi Planning Office during the summer months. This initial phase proved the viability of providing practical training and support within a real-world work environment. Di Mauro, who receives autonomy training services from the eureka cooperative, is now applying those skills at salvino Di Gregorio’s Agripizza restaurant.

“I set the table and clear the table – she explained – I clean the tables and bring the drinks, sometimes even the pizzas, than I prepare the boxes for takeaway. I still feel embarrassed with customers, but I’m learning to relate to everyone.”

A Restaurant Embraces Inclusion

agripizza, located on Viale milano, has become a beacon of inclusion and growth under the ownership of Salvino and Mari. The owners embraced the LodAbili program, recognizing the value of providing opportunities for all. “I believe that opportunities should be equal for everyone,” the owner stated, “which is why I accepted the proposal of Marika’s parents, my loyal customers.”

The program’s impact extends beyond individual job placements.Lia Spagliardi of eureka emphasized that these activities are designed to allow participants to experiment, learn, and showcase their strengths. A local city councilor, a key promoter of LodAbili, expressed hope that the project will inspire confidence in individuals with disabilities and their families.

Pro tip: – When considering inclusive hiring, focus on a candidate’s skills and potential, not their limitations. Adapt roles if needed to maximize contributions.

Shifting Perceptions of Disability

The LodAbili project aims to fundamentally shift how society views disability, promoting the understanding that it can be a source of “added value and richness in human, social and work relationships.” By showcasing success stories like Di Mauro’s, organizers hope to encourage more businesses and communities to embrace inclusive practices and recognize the potential of a diverse workforce. This initiative serves as a powerful example of how targeted collaboration can unlock opportunities and foster a more equitable society.

Why: the LodAbili project was created to address the lack of employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and to challenge societal perceptions of disability.

Who: The project is a collaboration between the Eureka and Mosaico cooperatives, the Municipality of Lodi, local trade associations, and participating businesses. Marika Di Mauro, a 21-year-old woman with a disability, is a key participant, gaining experience at Agripizza restaurant.Salvino and Mari, the owners of Agripizza, are also central figures, actively embracing the program.

What: LodAbili is an inclusive employment program providing socio-occupational experience to individuals with disabilities. It began as a summer pilot program (“Spring”) and has evolved into a sustainable initiative,currently offering Di mauro a training position at Agripizza.

How did it end?: The article doesn’t describe a definitive end to the project.Instead,it highlights its ongoing nature and future aspirations. LodAbili is currently active, with Di Mauro continuing her training. Organizers hope to expand the program, inspiring other businesses and communities to adopt inclusive practices and