COOPERATIVA SOCIALE "AL KHARUB"
The Social Cooperative "Al Kharub" operates in a context where social and labour inclusion of people in fragile situations, including migrants, people with disabilities and unemployed adults, is an ongoing challenge. In the agri-food and catering sector in particular, where there is great potential for job creation, there is an urgent need for inclusive and sustainable business models. At the same time, there is growing awareness of the need to protect endangered species, such as the Sicilian black bee (Apis mellifera siciliana), and to enhance sustainable environmental practices such as beekeeping.
Territory
Agrigento
Objective
The objective of the Social Cooperative "Al Kharub" is to promote social and labour inclusion of people in fragile situations, offering them dignified and sustainable employment opportunities. Through the creation of quality goods and services, the cooperative aims to integrate the most vulnerable people into the labour market and promote human growth. At the same time, the objective is also to preserve local biodiversity and promote sustainable practices, such as beekeeping and the safeguarding of the Sicilian black bee.
The Social Cooperative "Al Kharub" is an example of social inclusion, integration and sustainable development in the agri-food and catering sector. Its commitment to the labour integration of people in fragile situations and to the promotion of intercultural culture makes this cooperative a model of social innovation and building a better future for all.
Activities
The activities of the Social Cooperative "Al Kharub" include the management of an Afro-Sicilian restaurant, Ginger-people&food. This commitment in the catering sector has led the cooperative to receive significant recognition, such as entry in the Slow Food Guide to Italian Osterie and the World Couscous Championship award.
In addition to catering, the cooperative is actively involved in beekeeping, with a particular focus on enhancing and promoting the Sicilian black bee, an endangered species.
The role of the Community Foundation
The Community Foundation supported the #ApeOperosa project of "Al Kharub" which was part of the "Ripartenze Inclusive" crowdfunding programme, the call that selected community projects. Thanks to the collaboration with Intesa Sanpaolo's ForFunding platform, the Third Sector organisations selected together with the Community Foundation launched a community crowdfunding campaign. Upon reaching 30% of the amount needed to implement the project, the Community Foundation co-financed the project with the remaining 70%.
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