Our story
Founded in 1993 by Father Silvano Gobbo, the Associazione Opera San Giuseppe was created to provide a practical response to humanitarian emergencies in the world's poorest countries. Its mission began in Albania and then expanded to Tanzania and India.
A dream born out of a crisis
The Associazione Opera San Giuseppe is a testament to the power of targeted support, a commitment that unites people, cultures, and countries in projects of great human and social value.
Our story has its roots in the early 1990s, in the context of critical instability in Albania which pushed thousands of people to seek refuge in Italy, and later, in Switzerland too.
Father Silvano Gobbo: Ticino's guiding light in the humanitarian response towards Albania
Operazione Ticinese Aiuti Albania (OTAA) was founded on 25 June, 1993, in response to the humanitarian crisis in Albania. The association was founded by Father Silvano Gobbo and co-director Giuseppina Hegi. Based in Melide, Father Silvano Gobbo was the association's founding spirit, whose dedication guided the fledgling initiative through its crucial early years, thus laying the foundation for the humanitarian commitment that continues today. RSI interview with Father Silvano Gobbo.
Initially, OTAA announced its presence by sending numerous humanitarian convoys, including 21 trucks carrying relief supplies to Albania. Its first major project was the construction of a School of Arts and Crafts named after San Giuseppe in the town of Rreshen, one of the poorest regions in northern Albania. Opening on 09 November, 2004, the school was so successful that it required an immediate upgrade to include board and lodging facilities.
Aqueduct for the distribution of drinking water to 14 villages in Tanzania
At the same time, the Ticino association "Insieme si può" (ATI) was founded on 03 February, 2003, focusing on international aid. Its flagship project was the construction of a 120-kilometre aqueduct in Tanzania's Njombe region, created to bring drinking water to 14 villages. The project began in 2003 and was completed in 2009. Watch the Tanzania Aqueduct Video
The birth of Opera San Giuseppe
Recognising the success and commitment of both organisations, the OTAA and ATI decided to join forces on 01 December, 2009. The merger gave birth to the Opera San Giuseppe Association, named after the patron saint of workers and artisans.
The name is a tribute to San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph), a central figure in Christian tradition. He is the patron saint of workers and artisans and is thus a symbol of industriousness, justice, and dedication to work. His profile, which depicts him as a carpenter, inspires the association to promote human dignity and education through work and crafts.
This choice reflects the spirit of the association: promoting dignity, education, and solidarity through practical work to serve the most needy populations.
Current projects
After the passing of its founder Father Silvano Gobbo, the association was able to continue its work thanks to the dedication of his niece Rosanna and her daughter Gaia. Our constant goal is to improve the lives of the most vulnerable communities.
Our projects focus on key areas designed to have a lasting impact and are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our primary goals are: 1 (Eliminate Poverty), 4 (Quality Education), and 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
Clear goals, real impact. Today, our main projects focus on:
- Tanzania: Vital support continues for the maintenance of the aqueduct and the multipurpose hall and canteen in the Diocese of Njombe. Furthermore, our project for the construction of a new "San Giuseppe" arts and crafts centre continues to progress.
- India: A new and important commitment aims to support the creation of a family home and places of education for boys and girls.
Note: The Albanian School of Arts and Crafts project was successfully completed and the school is now entirely funded and supported by the Albanian government.