At Som – Fundació, on International Volunteer Day, we want to share some wonderful news that fills us with pride. We have been recognized with the ECOM inDRET Awards for our inclusive volunteering program #JoTbPuc. For us, this is much more than an award. It is recognition of the shared work with the people we support, who make this project possible.
Rafi Vioque and Fernando Valero, individuals we accompany who volunteer, received the award. They were joined by Juanma Martín, Head of the Social Area at Som – Fundació. These moments remind us why we do what we do: to drive real change in society and promote the inclusion of people with disabilities.
What is #JoTbPuc and why is it so special?
Inclusive volunteering redefines the usual role of people with intellectual disabilities. Through volunteering activities, these individuals stop being just recipients of support to become active contributors to the community’s well-being. This change not only empowers them but also positively impacts their self-esteem and self-perception.
Volunteering is a transformative experience. For the people we accompany, it represents a unique opportunity to feel part of a collective project, connect with others, and demonstrate their worth. For the community, it is a way to discover and appreciate each person’s abilities without prejudice or barriers.
Volunteering and Intellectual Disabilities
Inclusive volunteering breaks stereotypes and paves the way for a more accessible and equal society. Often, people with disabilities face obstacles to fully participating in society. With programs like #JoTbPuc, we aim to help eliminate these barriers by offering them a space where they can show everything they are capable of doing.
Thank You for Making It Possible
We would like to thank ECOM for this recognition and congratulate the other award-winning organizations, the Fundació Esclerosi Múltiple and ACAPPS, who also work to build a fairer and more inclusive society. This award would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of the entire team, volunteers, and, above all, the people we support.
Volunteering is a right, and together we will continue to pave the way to ensure no one is left behind.