Weaving a Better Future

The “Weaving a Better Future” project is grounded in occupational therapy through knitting, driven by the Crea Mujer Civil Association - ACERTAR at the “Alfonso Ugarte” Youth Center in Arequipa.

Its main objective is to contribute to the social reintegration of adolescents in conflict with the law, providing training in knitting techniques that develop practical skills, creativity, and concentration.

The project also seeks to strengthen self-esteem, promote social integration, and offer an alternative for income generation, positively impacting the personal development of participants and preventing recidivism, in line with the principles of child and adolescent protection.

Objectives

General Objective

Contribute to the social reintegration of adolescent offenders at the “Alfonso Ugarte” Youth Center through training in knitting techniques, promoting their personal, social, and economic development.

Specific Objectives

1. Train adolescents in crochet and needle knitting techniques.
2. Develop manual skills, creativity, and concentration.
3. Foster self-esteem and self-confidence through goal achievement.
4. Provide an alternative for income generation through the sale of products made.
5. Promote the social integration of the adolescents.

Results

• 21 adolescents were trained, learning crochet and needle knitting techniques.
• Participants produced on average 8 amigurumis and 4 garments each.
• An 85.7% satisfaction rate was recorded among participants, and 90.5% expressed interest in continuing to learn.
• Highlights included the learning of new skills, the kind attitude of the teachers, and the creation of unique amigurumis.
• Feelings of satisfaction and achievement were generated upon completing their projects.
• Interest grew in knitting vests, scarves, and additional stuffed animals.