Computer Course for Young Workers, Londrina, Brazil

Computer Course for Young Workers
Londrina, Brazil

TOF 98-08

Londrina, in the southern state of Paraná, is a city of around 400,000 people of many different national origins. Its new YMCA is very active in many fields. Five development programmes, strongly supported by volunteer workers, enjoy the recognition and support of the local community:

Young Volunteers at Work organize an annual winter campaign to collect clothes for people in need and make a year-round collection of toys which are distributed during a special Christmas party. They also participate in the yearly "Children’s Week Programme" involving thousands of children, conducted by the county administration.

A Medical Bus which is fully equipped provides free medical services to children up to the age of twelve.

People with Physical Disabilities are given assistance and care by medical students using the YMCA facilities, such as the swimming pools.

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'Bread for the Little Ones', takes care of children gathered from the streets who come twice a week free of charge for recreation and swimming classes, within the wider purpose of rebuilding family life and improving health care and school attendance.

Senior or Third Age Groups are offered gym and swimming classes, sports, dancing parties and opportunities for companionship and conversation.

The purpose of the Computer Course for Young Workers is to provide better job opportunities. Since computer knowledge has become an almost universal requirement for many jobs this professional training for those from the lower income level will be a very real help to increase the income they need to meet basic needs such as food, clothing and education. Experience has shown that it also leads to personality growth and increased confidence and to a greater understanding of citizenship as well as faith in God. Keeping young people off the streets and providing an environment of friendship, warmth and the human respect that comes with work is another motivation for the YMCA’s efforts to increase this educational programme.

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