It takes its name from a type of ant that builds very large and resistant anthills, as the work originally began with children and teenagers working on the streets. Today, dignity of work and through work continues to be one of the key elements of the Movement.
Inspired by the charism of Don Bosco, it works to transform lives through education, work, formal education, sport, spiritual development and close support.
This approach has consolidated Tacurú as a leading organisation in Uruguay, directly impacting more than 1,500 people every year.
The work of the Tacurú Movement is part of the broader social work of the Salesian Congregation in Uruguay. Present in the country since the end of the 19th century, the Congregation has focused its efforts on promoting the rights of the most vulnerable, especially children and young people in situations of exclusion. Over the years, the Salesians have developed educational, recreational and pastoral projects in various communities, always focused on providing opportunities and creating spaces of welcome and hope.
Tacurú is part of this network of Salesian activities in one of the areas with the highest rates of unmet basic needs in Uruguay. It runs projects such as the Oratory, formal educational programmes so that teenagers and young people can return to their studies, a vocational training centre, educational and work-related training programmes, a youth centre, school support, a sports school, early childhood care and others. These initiatives have a comprehensive approach that combines the strengthening of values, emotional support and access to educational and employment resources. The goal is to promote not only individual development, but also the strengthening of the social fabric in the communities where they operate.
The concept of Casa Abierta (open house) in Tacurú and other Salesian initiatives, symbolises the commitment to create safe and welcoming spaces. These are spaces designed to be inhabited through encounter, as an opportunity for transformation and for the construction of new trajectories that allow for the full development of those who participate in the proposal. This approach not only impacts the direct beneficiaries, but also generates positive changes in their family and community environments.
Throughout its more than 40 years of existence, Tacurú has witnessed numerous stories of personal growth. Its impact is reflected in young people who have managed to reintegrate into the education system, enter the world of work and regain confidence in their abilities. These transformations are possible thanks to the support network built up by educators, volunteers and religious who, following the Salesian charism, dedicate their lives to the service of others.
The Salesian Congregation in Uruguay is a testament to its commitment to the most vulnerable sectors of society. Tacurú, as an expression of this legacy, continues to be a place of hope and transformation, demonstrating that education, solidarity and close support can change lives and strengthen communities.
With their sights set on the future, Tacurú and the Salesians in Uruguay are renewing their mission to build a more just and inclusive society, inspiring new generations through the example of Don Bosco.
https://www.infoans.org/en/component/k2/item/23301-rmg-the-social-projects-that-keep-don-bosco-alive-today-the-tacuru-movement-in-uruguay#sigProIda4d35cb190
