Community Event Space

Project Description: Workers voted to invest Fair Trade Community Development Funds to renovate an event space at a local nonprofit organization, Casa Pia, which provides assisted living services for the elderly and facilities for community gatherings.
Reason for the Project: Workers at this Brazilian sugar cane operation identified a need for community gathering spaces for cultural and social activities, as well as better infrastructure for elderly community members.
Project Outcome: Thanks to the use of fair trade funds, Casa Pia renovated their event room, which had fallen into disrepair and become unusable. The space can now be used to host cultural and social events to enrich the day-to-day quality of life for Casa Pia's 37 elderly residents. The space provides a setting to build community connections. In addition, the venue will generate an income stream for the organization, as the space can be rented out to the public for weddings and other events.