Who we are?

WE WERE BORN TO RESPOND TO THE PROBLEMATIC SITUATIONS OF VULNERABLE SOCIAL GROUPS…

On March 25, 2003, a group of people committed to the common good refined their thinking and gave voice to the social concerns they shared. This gave rise to the Associação de Desenvolvimento Comunitário do Funchal (Funchal Community Development Association), which years later would adopt the name "Garouta do Calhau"—a cheerful expression characteristic of a Madeiran regionalism, with the humanistic purpose of drawing attention to communities of young people and adults excluded from the ladder of social opportunity. "Garouta do Calhau" holds the status of a Private Institution of Social Solidarity (IPSS).

Our founding principles are rooted in altruism, humanism, dignity, solidarity, kindness, justice, and tolerance. The social philosophy of the founders is based on the belief that citizens, when properly organized, should take responsibility in the social sphere and help correct society's injustices. To fight poverty and social discrimination. To stand for moderation and tolerance. To understand the present and empower those in need with the tools to face future challenges.

"Garouta do Calhau" celebrated 20 years of existence on March 2023. It reaches maturity fully aware of the importance of doing "the right thing" and turning something bad into something good. This motto has guided our mission over these two decades and has inspired us to carry out our work in a closer, faster, more cost-effective, humane, and more compassionate way.

"Garouta do Calhau" celebrated its 20th anniversary in March 2023. With two decades of experience, it remains deeply committed to the principle of doing "what is right" and transforming adversity into something positive. This motto has guided our mission over the years, inspiring us to work in a way that is more accessible, efficient, humane, and compassionate.

The "Garouta do Calhau" project is responsible for five community centers and two day centers for dementia care. The social outreach serves 400 users daily. It is supported by 60

staff members, including social service professionals (social workers, psychologists, and social educators), sociocultural animators, general service assistants, and drivers.

Users benefit from a variety of daily activities: fitness exercises, music classes, swimming, dance classes, theater, computer literacy classes, and cognitive stimulation sessions, among others. In 2023, "Garouta do Calhau" continues its "Férias Divertidas" ("Fun Holidays") project, reaching 250 children during the months of July and August, as well as the "Verão +" ("Summer +") project aimed at elderly attendees of the day centers.

In partnership with the Secretaria Regional da Inclusão e Cidadania (Regional Secretariat for Inclusion and Civil Rights), we have developed the "Proages" program across three parishes in Funchal: São Martinho, Santa Luzia, and Sé.

The largest project currently under development by "Garouta do Calhau" is the construction of an innovative day center, the first of its kind with dual functions—daytime (with 60 vacancies) and nighttime (with 20 beds). This €2.3 million investment is part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR).

A Specialized Day Center will begin operations this year, offering a pilot program with extended hours to provide additional support to families. It is located in the parish of Santa Maria Maior, in partnership with the Funchal City Council (CMF) and Madeira's Social Security Services. If the plan is successful, it will be replicated in Santo Amaro neighborhood.

We are committed to empowering those who seek purpose in life, promoting dignity for the elderly, and addressing the essential needs of children's education and well-being.

We want to keep painting hearts on the stones of the "calhau"!