Solidarity Day at the Cottolengo Don Orione

On Saturday, August 22, we experienced another deeply special day at the Don Orione Cottolengo in Los Polvorines, where we shared a day filled with solidarity, joy, service, and, above all, love.

The day brought together Knights and Dames of the Order, as well as volunteers from San Ambrosio School, who continue to demonstrate their commitment and their close connection to the values of our Order. With great enthusiasm, they joined us in spending time with the residents of the Home and helping with several maintenance and improvement projects throughout the facility.

During the morning, we shared a wonderful recreational time with the residents, enjoying drawing and painting activities, music, dancing, makeup, nail painting, and hairstyling. Seeing their smiles, hearing their songs, and sharing hugs, glances, and conversations with them was undoubtedly one of the most moving moments of the day.

We also carried out several projects to improve and beautify the Home. With dedication, effort, and teamwork, we restored and repainted the statue of the Virgin Mary located at the entrance. We also refurbished and painted the kitchen bell.

At lunchtime, we gathered around the table with the residents, volunteers, and staff, enjoying a wonderful moment of community, conversation, and fellowship.

The day also gave us another very special moment: we celebrated the birthday of one of our Brothers together with the residents of the Home. Surrounded by songs, applause, cake, and plenty of joy, we shared a simple celebration filled with warmth and affection.

But beyond everything we accomplished, the most meaningful and beautiful part of the day was everything we experienced alongside the residents and all the love and affection they gave us in return.

It was a deeply moving day, one of those experiences that reminds us that a gesture of kindness, a smile, a few words, a hug, or simply being present can mean so much to another person.

We returned home with full hearts, grateful for every smile, every embrace, and every moment we shared. We went there intending to give, but once again, it was the wonderful women of the Home who taught us just how much we can receive when we open ourselves to a genuine encounter with others.

And they left us with a simple, profound, and powerful lesson:

“AVE MARIA AND FORWARD!”