The Faenza man Matteo Violani, class of 2006, received the news this afternoon of the recognition among the new ones “Standards of the Republic”. The notification came for the volunteer service provided during the flood that hit his city. “His commitment – we read in the note – constitutes an example of active citizenship and symbolizes the resilience of an entire community”. Violani served as Pope John XXIII Community And Diocesan Caritas. The news arrived on his 18th birthday. “Receiving this award – he commented to Ansa – it’s a great gift, a great emotion, a recognition of gratitude from the president who represents the community of the Italian people, for the many young people, many even minors like me, who spent themselves with so much energy and joy to help all the people affected by the floods”. Of those days in May he remembers “the great strength that best depicted the Romagna soul. It was in some ways like living in a parallel world.”
The certificate from President Mattarella
The president of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, he conferred 29 Certificates of Honor of “Bishop of the Republic”. Ssolidarity for the environment and culture it is the prevailing theme that inspired the choice of the young Alfieri in 2023. The floods that hit our territory in 2023, in particular Romagna and Tuscany, once again brought to light the altruism, generosity and sense of community of many young people. The Certificates valorise voluntary actions, examples of active citizenship, as well as the stories of young people who have been able to transform their passion for writing or science into a “bridge” to reduce inequalities. The cases chosen, however, do not constitute examples of rare actions, but are representative of widespread behaviour, of spontaneous solidarity: actions and feelings to be encouraged to spread among young people those values that can allow them to become builders of a sustainable future, adults aware of the importance of solidarity in a world crossed by conflicts, climate change, environmental crises.
Matteo, Caritas volunteer and Pope John XXIII
Matteo is one of the many young volunteers from Romagna who made himself available to the community after the violent flood that devastated his city and his region. The commitment and dedication he demonstrated in those difficult days were an example of active citizenship. They constitute a testimony, fortunately among many, of those who have decided not to let themselves be overcome by despair but to react by rolling up their sleeves to do their part in the emergency phase. Despite his young age, Matteo’s determination was motivating for other young people and with his work he became a point of reference for volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
Here is an interview with Matteo conducted by the small in the last months.
