Initially, the Oratory offered Social Work and Occupational Therapy services. However, thanks to its team's commitment and the identification of new needs in the community, the initiative has expanded significantly. It currently provides a wide range of free services in psychology, occupational therapy and social work and courses in early childhood education, physical education and international business administration.
Located in the St John Bosco Parish, it opens its doors to the entire population, no-one excluded, reaffirming its commitment to equal opportunities. The main goal of the Oratory is to promote the integral development of children, young people and their families through socio-educational activities. This approach aims not only to improve the quality of life of the beneficiaries, but also to strengthen the social fabric of the community.
The centre's initiatives are designed to offer positive alternatives to occupy free time, taking young people away from social risks and guiding them to become active agents of change in their lives and communities.
"We want every young person who comes here to be the protagonist of their own story, making decisions that shape a promising future," says the coordinating team. The work of the Oratory therefore creates a space of hope and belonging, in a region where opportunities are often limited. Projects like this are essential to transform vulnerable environments into places of growth and development.
In light of all this, the Oratory has received recognition as the "Most important Social Entity in southwestern Colombia 2024". This award is the result of teamwork and strategic partnerships, in particular with the academic programs of the Mariana University, whose students and teachers have actively collaborated in the projects of the Oratory. The award will be presented as part of a ceremony to be held on 4 December, at 6.30 pm, at the Auditorium of the Pasto Chamber of Commerce. This event celebrates not only the hard work of the Oratory, but also the collaboration with its partners, which has been fundamental to achieve this result.
The Pasto Oratory continues to demonstrate that with commitment and dedication it is possible to build more just and supportive communities, marking a path of hope and development for future generations.
