Opis organizácie

Asociación Puente Centro Cultural Árabe was founded in 2003, initially offering computer classes for Arab immigrants. Over the past 20 years, Puente has expanded its services, becoming a key resource for immigrant inclusion and second-generation youth development in Barcelona Province, Spain. Our target groups include men, women, and youth at risk of exclusion, particularly those facing difficulties integrating into Spanish society. We provide language and literacy classes, civic integration workshops, migration support groups, medical orientation, labor integration programs, and youth activities such as English classes, arts, and sports clubs. Volunteers, typically aged 19-30 from the U.S. and Europe, play an active role in our centers, assisting in educational programs, organizing cultural exchange activities, and supporting youth initiatives. They receive logistical, linguistic, and social support throughout their stay. Our team includes Amany Alber (General Director), África Motes (Director, Barcelona), Emily Dark (Director, Mataró), and four other full time staff members, as well as local adult volunteers. Volunteers participate in both centers and join our weekly full-staff meetings to ensure collaboration. Our diverse staff includes Spanish citizens, immigrants, and people with disabilities, with women making up the majority. Puente is proud to have collaborated with network NGO's, the governments of Barcelona and Mataro, and the Universitat Abat Oliba.