The Mother House of the Lasallian Brothers welcomed 53 participants, representatives of 34 organizations, for Bridging the Gap, the first international meeting of Lasallian nonprofit organizations. Over four days, they shared experiences, knowledge, and strategies to strengthen their social impact.

From March 23 to 27 in Rome, the first international gathering of Lasallian nonprofit organizations took place, marking a milestone in strengthening the global La Salle network.

The name Bridging the Gap responds, first, to the mission of all La Salle nonprofit organizations: to reduce inequalities and provide equal opportunities to ensure a better future for children and young people worldwide. Secondly, it seeks to bridge the gap between more developed organizations and those still growing, promoting shared learning and collaborative work as one Lasallian family.

Throughout the four days, participants attended presentations by La Salle partners on the following topics:

Day 1
Juan Esteban Balderrain, from PORTICUS: From synodality to co-responsibility
Kara Wentworth and Roshawnda Washington, from The Nonprofit Center at La Salle University: Strategic Planning

Day 2
John Moffett, from Misean Cara: Measuring Impact
Oscar Merante Boschin and Giulia Micheletti, from Medici con l’Africa CUAMM: Diversifying Fundraising

Day 3
Don Gabriele Pipinato, from the Conferenza Episcopale Italiana: New Guidelines

Day 4
Lorna Pearcey and Rosie Bishop, from CAPLOR HORIZONS: Enhancing the Network

Bridging the Gap not only marks the beginning of a space for encounter, but also the advancement of a shared vision to move forward together in the Lasallian educational and social mission worldwide.