The Regional Director for the Communities stated that the Regional Government has promoted "a proximity action" with the various social organisations, considering the work developed with the Azorean diaspora "fundamental for the full integration of our communities".
 
“In this particular we are living, the permanent dialogue with the institutions that are close to our emigrants and their descendants contributes to the joint effort of looking for the best solutions that fulfils their expectations,” said Paulo Teves. 

The Regional Director spoke Wednesday in Horta at a meeting, held by video conference, with several leaders of entities that make up the International Network of Social Intervention Organisations. 

"This partnership with the Regional Government, embodied not only in the annual support to your activities but also in the analysis and resolution of specific issues, is an important tool to deepen the knowledge of the socio-economic reality of our communities," stressed the government official. As he further emphasised, the solution, in many cases, is found "through the sharing of experiences among the various players that take action in different social contexts. 

At this meeting, the participating organisations provided information on the adaptations that had to be made in face of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in public services as well as in the organisation of educational initiatives (classes) and intergenerational meetings. 

The teams of these organisations have also paid special attention to the situations of people in vulnerable situations, namely the elderly, seeking to maintain permanent contact through various communication platforms. 

Likewise, we have noted the strong spirit of solidarity among Azorean communities as evidenced by the numerous anonymous people that provided support to the social organisations working on the ground. 

The meeting was attended by representatives from 11 organisations, namely the Abrigo Centre, the Working Women Community Center, Centre d'action socio-communautaire de Montréal, the Luso Support Centere of Hamilton (Portuguese Support Services for Quality Living) and the Mission Sainte-Croix (Canada). 

Additionally, the Immigrant's Assistance Centre, the Catholic Social Services, the Southeastern Massachusetts SER - Jobs for Progress, VALER - Valey Area Living Enabling Resources, POSSO - Portuguese Organisation for Social Services and Opportunities (USA) and the Vasco da Gama Club (Bermuda) also participated in this meeting. 

Created by the Regional Government several years ago, the International Network of Social Intervention Organisations has as its fundamental goal supporting the integration of Azorean emigrants and returnees, through the coordinated action among various institutions. It also plays a key role in fostering cooperation and sharing information, experiences and good practices that enable faster responses to challenges. 

Under the coordination of the Regional Directorate for the Communities, this network also working in coordination with organisations in the Autonomous Region of the Azores. Its action covers several areas, through the promotion of social centres, awareness-raising sessions on various themes, professional guidance services and job search support, English and Portuguese classes, training on new technologies, home support and preparation classes for obtaining citizenship, among others.