Livigno, January 3, 2025 – The Winter On the Road project in Livigno concluded with great satisfaction and renewed commitment. From December 27 to January 3, 10 young people aged 16 to 18 participated in an intense and unique educational program, involving hands-on experiences alongside professionals in prevention, safety, and rescue services. The initiative was held concurrently in Bormio, where another 10 participants took part.
The closing event, held at the Livigno Town Hall, featured speeches by several notable figures: Cristina Rupani, Councillor for Social Affairs, who delivered greetings and thanks from Mayor Remo Galli—who spent a night conducting checks with the On the Road participants and the Local Police; Christian Bergamo, Commander of the Local Police; Alessandro Invernici, Vice President and founder of the Ragazzi On the Road association, who brought greetings from President Egidio Provenzi; and Lorenzo Brollo, psychologist and head of the educational team supporting the young volunteers throughout their activities. Additional remarks came from Marco Zini, Councillor responsible for the Olympics; Michele Ricetti, head of the Livigno Youth Aggregation Center (CiAGi), a longstanding partner of the initiative; and representatives from law enforcement and local organizations involved in the project. Their collective presence emphasized the importance of a synergistic approach to shaping aware and responsible young citizens.
Councillor Rupani praised the dedication of the young participants and collaborating organizations, highlighting the importance of such initiatives for the community’s growth. She also conveyed a message from Mayor Galli: 'Thank you to everyone who participated in the On the Road project. This initiative is designed to help us step into others' shoes, an experience that helps tackle and resolve life’s challenges. Over the past week, you have directly experienced what it means to ensure safety and respond to emergencies. I am grateful for your commitment and wish you all the best for the future. Remember to always remain optimistic: with dedication and determination, anything is possible.'
The Councillor added: 'Proposing something authentic and engaging is always a challenge. This week, you experienced the world of law enforcement, local police, rescue services, alpine rescue, and firefighters by stepping into their roles. The project continues to grow, with a new edition planned for summer, aligning with the rapidly approaching Olympics.'
Alessandro Invernici, from the Ragazzi On the Road association in Bergamo, remarked: 'These young participants remind us that the future is in their hands. Through experiences like this, they learn essential values: prevention, safety, and social responsibility, becoming active and aware citizens. The goal," Invernici concluded, "is to cultivate a generation capable of making a difference wherever they go. Thanks to the Municipality of Livigno and all the institutions and organizations that have made this possible for 11 editions, with an eye towards the upcoming Olympics, where Ragazzi On the Road will also play a key role.'
A Transformative Experience
During the Winter On the Road week in Livigno, participants engaged in hands-on activities alongside the Carabinieri Forestali, firefighters, the Guardia di Finanza and Customs Agency at the Foscagno Pass, the Alpine Rescue, Carosello and Mottolino resort rescuers, and AREU operators. Among the highlights were safe driving training on ice at the Ghiacciodromo and the special On the Road night patrol alongside Local Police officers, carried out under the snow.
The participants’ reflections highlighted how profoundly the experience impacted their personal growth:
'I think this was an interesting experience that continues to inspire and motivate me' said Emma, 17.
'I was struck by their dedication and professionalism. They work in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions but are always ready to intervene' added Irene, 17.
'When I saw the impact this project has on people and the community, I realized I needed to keep doing my part'," commented Karen, 16.
'The experience with the rescuers gave me a clear perspective on what it means to be on the front line during emergencies' noted Davide, 18.
All participants expressed a growing commitment to volunteering and community service.
Future Editions and Project Expansion
With the conclusion of this edition, the project looks to the future. In 2025, the 18th anniversary of the Ragazzi On the Road educational program, the initiative will return to Livigno for a summer edition. This edition, already designed with the Olympics in mind, promises new features and aims to involve even more young people while fostering a sense of responsibility and community belonging.
Additionally, the Ragazzi On the Road association continues to expand nationally, exporting its successful format to other regions to educate more young people, particularly those in vulnerable situations or in need of awareness and accountability.
The On the Road project in Livigno remains a shining example of how prevention, safety, and education can serve as tools for building a better future.
Young people interested in participating in upcoming On the Road initiatives can apply now by completing the form on the website www.ragazziontheroad.it.