A Mission of Education and Social Impact
Since its founding, the Salesians of BBH have been dedicated to promoting and safeguarding the rights of children and adolescents. They work through schools, universities, social programs, youth centers, and parishes, ensuring a comprehensive and transformative presence. The Province currently employs more than 1,600 staff members across the Brazilian states of Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, Espírito Santo, Goiás, Tocantins, and the Federal District.
As one of the most significant Salesian presences in Brazil, BBH continues the mission begun by Don Bosco and the first Salesians who arrived in the country in 1883. Its work stands out in both basic and higher education, as well as in the management of social projects such as the Salesian Youth Center and CESAM (Salesian Center for Working Adolescents). These initiatives have been instrumental in providing professional training and ensuring the safe integration of young people into the labor market, in accordance with the guidelines of the Child and Adolescent Statute and the Apprenticeship Law.
Despite economic and social challenges, BBH has remained committed to its mission by combining high-quality education with value-based formation and community strengthening. With a governance model rooted in innovation and sustainability, the Province fosters stronger integration between schools, parishes, and social projects, promoting both social transformation and evangelization as outlined in the Salesian Educational and Pastoral Plan (SEPP).
In recent years, BBH has reaffirmed its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), guiding its projects and social initiatives through a coordinated effort across more than 65 Salesian units and 14 provincial commissions.
Advocacy and Public Engagement
BBH is also actively involved in 23 social advocacy platforms, including the National Council for the Rights of Children and Adolescents (Consiglio Nazionale per i Diritti dei Bambini e degli Adolescenti - CONANDA) and the Intersectoral Committee for the Fight Against Child Sexual Exploitation. Through these efforts, the Province contributes to governmental and civil society actions in public debates and the implementation of policies that protect the rights of children and adolescents in Brazil.
Statistics and Areas of Mission
The Province consists of 78 priests, 10 coadjutors, 21 clerics, and 4 novices. The workforce includes 54.8% women and 45.2% men, all dedicated to the Salesian mission. Additionally, BBH collaborates with 11 groups of the Salesian Family, such as the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA), the Salesian Cooperators, and the Volunteers with Don Bosco.
With over 65 operational units, BBH manages:
- 12 primary and secondary schools
- A higher education institution ("UniSales")
- 22 youth centers
- 12 parishes
- 9 social action units
Each month, the Province serves approximately 4,084 children, adolescents, and young people, with the support of 820 partner institutions.
In terms of social responsibility, BBH provides 1,291 scholarships for primary and secondary education and 778 scholarships for higher education, ensuring access to quality education for children and youth in vulnerable situations. Every day, inspiring stories of success and personal growth unfold in its educational and pastoral spaces.
National Recognition for Sustainability, Transparency, and Governance
BBH remains steadfast in its mission, having invested over 16 million reais (more than 2.5 million euros) in school infrastructure improvements over the past two years. It has also supported 3,189 young people in securing safe and dignified employment. Its commitment to academic excellence is reflected in the 363 awards earned in municipal, state, and national youth competitions.
For the fifth consecutive year, BBH has been nationally recognized for its transparency and governance, ranking among the top 100 NGOs in Brazil for charitable donations.
Among its most impactful initiatives are projects aimed at eradicating child labor and promoting fundamental rights and sustainable development. The “Salê Sustentável” (Sustainable Salesian Missions) program, for example, encourages the adoption of socio-environmental sustainability practices within Salesian units, aligning with the principles of the “Don Bosco Green Alliance” and Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’.
Looking to the Future
In light of the 29th General Chapter, the "Saint John Bosco" Province of BBH reaffirms its commitment to the integral formation of young people. By staying faithful to the Salesian charism and expanding its influence in Brazil, BBH strengthens its role in building a more just and supportive future for new generations—honoring Don Bosco’s legacy and bringing hope to the youth who need it most.
