Project Airone, carried out by the association Il Giardino Segreto and officially launched in May 2022, was created to support orphans of femicide victims. This work confronts a harsh and painful reality. The daily efforts of those involved can only be described as essential and life-changing.
In April of last year, on the sidelines of the 9th edition of the Premio Città di Roma, we at risorse.news explored Airone’s commitment with lawyer Patrizia Schiarizza, founder and creator of Il Giardino Segreto (click here for the full interview). She described the project as “concrete, seeking to offer life opportunities to these children,” including through sports activities. Airone’s dedication was recognized with the Premio Città di Roma, an award that OPES—also a promoter of Project Airone—has been presenting annually since 2015 to institutions, associations, sports, and cultural personalities that have distinguished themselves and brought prestige to their respective fields.
The award was presented by the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policies, Maria Teresa Bellucci, who has long been active in the Third Sector and in supporting associations.
Project Airone: Training Activities
Project Airone does not only provide tangible support to orphans of femicide victims; it also focuses on professional training. Specifically, on March 1 and 2, a free training and update session will be held for lawyers, judges, and guardians on the topic of orphans of domestic crimes and foster families.
The event is organized by the association Cante di Montevecchio, partner and regional coordinator of Project Airone in the Marche region, with the sponsorship of the Bar Association of Pesaro and the collaboration of the Municipality of Fano and the Minor Chamber of Pesaro.
Professionals attending the event will earn continuing education credits. To participate, registration via a dedicated form is required (click here).
This initiative provides an opportunity to deepen knowledge on highly relevant social issues, considering the sadly increasing numbers of domestic violence and femicides. We have often discussed this phenomenon, emphasizing the important role of media in reporting and disseminating information about what happens daily in Italy and beyond. We have also highlighted how institutions, associations, and companies use tools, including mobile apps, to assist women in daily activities or in seeking help.
Together with Katia Pacelli, director of Salvamamme, we discussed how, in many cases, children also suffer physical or psychological violence alongside their mothers. Specifically, Airone addresses the aftermath, intervening when support is delayed or the event is sudden and unforeseeable. The project focuses on children who lose everything and strives to restore their future and opportunities.
Comment from Lawyer Patrizia Schiarizza
Lawyer Patrizia Schiarizza, president of Il Giardino Segreto and coordinator of Project Airone, urged all sector organizations to participate in the training activities, emphasizing that:
“Training should not be viewed solely through a sectoral or professional lens, but through a holistic perspective that enables genuine exchange of knowledge and skills across professions.”
She continued to explain the purpose of the initiative and the association’s aspirations:
“Through Airone’s training, we hope professionals will also engage with tools and languages not directly tied to their profession, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of intra-family violence.”
The ultimate goal is to enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals working with these minors and their foster families, promoting an integrated model of care and support.
