Marist Studies Institute of Salamanca

On November 7 and 8, 2013, the Marist Studies Institute of the Pontifical University of Salamanca (UPSA) held the Second Conference on Solidarity and Volunteer Service. Organized on a biannual basis, it was aimed at sharing experiences in the areas of volunteer service,special practices, and practices in solidarity carried out by the faculty students, especially those from the Preschool, Primary Education, and Physical Activity and Sport Sciences programs, and by other people involved in solidarity activities, who are linked to our educational purposes.

Besides sharing experiences on solidarity and volunteer service, the Conference included a presentation of the volunteer program directed by SED (Solidarity, Education and Development, the Marist interprovincial NGO in Spain), and other programs established through direct agreements with a number of institutions working locally or in developing countries. Thereby we wanted to raise awareness and encourage the University community to participate in solidarity, volunteer service, and cooperation activities at the service of a more just, Christian and participatory society.

The Conference was inaugurated by University academic authorities, who are commitment to disseminating the project.

IEM had already organized the First Conference on Solidarity and Volunteer Service in 2011 aimed at publicizing SED, our Marist NGO, launching training and awareness activities in the University, and signing a collaboration agreement between SED and UPSA.

We would like to thank UPSA, and the Marist Provinces of Compostela and Mediterránea for their sponsorship and constant support.

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Fernando González Alonso / Jacinto Escudero Vidal
Marist Studies Institute