Anffas Toscolano Maderno Achievements, Projects, and Future Plans
The Anffas of Toscolano Maderno concludes a year full of achievements. President Aldo Bussei shares how his commitment began: “The turning point of my life,” explains Bussei, “was my daughter Cristina’s disability. Many doctors had predicted that Cristina would never walk or talk again. Yet today, my daughter goes dancing, speaks very well, works at a local hotel, and volunteers at Anffas in her free time. What initially seemed a tragedy for my family has become a great joy: being able to help many young disabled people and alleviate part of the suffering of their families. The union among those facing similar challenges can accomplish a great deal.”
Activities and Initiatives of Anffas
Today, Anffas of Toscolano Maderno employs over 50 staff members, supported by contracted doctors and numerous volunteers. There are about ten workshops: carpentry, knitting, leather processing, drawing, two flower greenhouses, ceramics, a cooperative bottling Garda extra virgin olive oil, and producing delicious cookies. The products are sold to families, shopkeepers, and, via a truck, at markets in Gavardo, Villanuova, and Laverno.
The young people of Anffas undertake gardening tasks at several villas: their “green thumb” is truly remarkable. Thanks to their skills developed at the Anffas center, a good percentage of the young people are integrated into the workforce: “The results are more than satisfactory,” assures Bussei.
At the main headquarters, besides the magnificent Villa Zanardelli and adjoining structures, the association has a house in a new building in the Monte Maderno area. The modern rehabilitation gym, open not only to the center’s youth, hosts various sports disciplines. Equine therapy takes place at the Gaino center, and swimming sessions are held in the public pools of Salò. The organization has four buses to meet all transportation needs.
Support and Future Projects
The Anffas association of Maderno, which manages its assets independently, receives aid in various forms, including support from private citizens. The Caritas of Brescia provides food supplies: rice, pasta, cheese, stock cubes, and cookies. Significant contributions also come from Comune (Municipality), ASI (Azienda Speciale Industriale), Regione Lombardia, Mountain Community, Lions Club, and Rotary.
In recent years, the bequests of apartments, shops, and some land have increased and represent the future of continuity for us, emphasizes Bussei. Of the sections of Anffas, which number 220 across Italy, he also serves as a national councilor.
Disabled young people are supported by the organization from a very young age. Their parents are informed about managing these delicate situations. “The thought,” reiterates Bussei, “that sometimes keeps me awake at night is imagining my young people once they become adults. Who will host them? Who will protect them?”
For the president of Anffas of Toscolano, a new challenge lies ahead: providing his young people with a facility that can accommodate them with dignity for a peaceful old age. “It is by pursuing this goal,” promises Aldo Bussei, “that we will work tirelessly in the coming future.”