Society Sant'Egidio (St. Giles)

 

Earlier this week we had dinner at Gli Amici Restaurant. At first glance this appears just like another delicious Italian restaurant in the Traverser neighbourhood. We had the opportunity to chat with Sophie Janssens, a volunteer for the community who shared how the Society of Sant'Egidio (St. Giles) is helping to find meaningful employment for adults with intellectual disabilities. The Society was founded by Andrea Riccardi in 1968, is run by lay people whose purpose is to serve those outside the community, the poor, the disabled, those with mental illness, migrants and the elderly to name a few, they are united in prayer and reading of scriptures. The community took on the name of Sant'Egidio who is know as the patron saint of the poor, the disabled, those with mental illness and the outcasts. The Society has also been recognized for their work in the efforts of peace negotiations as they helped establish dialogue which brought an end to the Mozambican civil war in 1992. They are a global community found in 73 countries, with over 50 000 members whose charism is praying and working for others.

 This visit had special meaning for me, as I am a Special Education teacher. Listening to Sophie share challenges faced by those in her community resonated with my own experiences. Similar to our educational system in Ontario, teachers plan curriculum to support and prepare students in finding post secondary employment, that will put them on the path of independent living. But finding employers who are willing to take a chance and hire those who may require additional training is extremely challenging. Here at the Society Sant'Egidio  the restaurant employs fifteen adults with intellectual disabilities along side the trained chefs and other restaurant staff. Some trained staff have found employment outside of this flagship restaurant.  Volunteers from the Society Sant'Egidio help to ensure that the restaurant is running smoothly, and any additional help needed is available.  The Society volunteers also run approximately twelve art programs throughout Rome that are staffed and supplied by volunteers. These art programs appear very similar to adult day programs that are organized in Ontario; however, our programs are for a fee, which can be a financial hardship for families. The Society is not a social services program, they rely on donations from the community as well as government funding when available.

 

I would highly recommend you visit this restaurant if you are in the neighbourhood. The service was impeccable and the food absolutely fabulous. Another example of the good work of the Society Sant'Egidio.