From 13.02.-15.02.2024, the BAB hosted the kick-off meeting of the Horizon Europe project SERIGO in Vienna. The SERIGO project generates evidence-based theoretical and practicable knowledge on how the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) can support resilience, social inclusion, and ‘good life’ in European rural areas. Based on the research results and findings , recommendations will be developed on which framework conditions and policy measures are necessary to promote these objectives. Constructive debates and cooperation on this topic will be initiated in the participating EU countries and Turkey with the involvement of various stakeholder groups.
During the two workshop days, 29 project partners from 10 EU-countries and Turkey discussed the joint approach and upcoming tasks of the SERIGO project at the BAB premises. The empirical work is taking place in 26 study regions and co-creation pilots are also being carried out in five selected regions. With clear objectives, defined timelines, and a dedicated team in place, we are confident that the project can make an important contribution to the social inclusion of vulnerable groups in rural regions.
Director Martin Schönhart welcomes the participants to the kick-off meeting at the BAB
Intensive work during the two workshop days at the BAB
Foto Credits: Katrin Hofer (BAB)
On the third day, an excursion took place to the Austrian study region of Schneeberg-Rax in southern Lower Austria. Project partners and other BAB colleagues were warmly welcomed at Gloggnitz train station by representatives of the Silbersberg association and the mayor of Gutenstein, Michael Kreuzer. Stations in the Höllental valley and the Piestingtal valley were explored by coach,
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A warm welcome at the Silbersberg association in Gloggnitz
Foto Credits: Astrid Reitter (BAB)
The Silbersberg association is the focus of the case study to be carried out by the BAB. It offers parentless people with multiple disabilities a family-like living and working environment in Gloggnitz at Haus Silbersberg, at Quellenhof in Schwarzau im Gebirge and at two other locations.
The excursion was a successful conclusion to the kick-off event, which gave the participants an understanding of the work of the Silbersberg association and the Quellenhof, as well as highlighting the (spatial) challenges of the region. The tour of the premises of the "wohnwagon" company site in Gutenstein rounded off this trip and is a positive starting point for addressing the issues of resilience, sustainability, inclusion and quality of life in rural areas. Finally, we would like to thank Mayor Michael Kreuzer for organizing the excursion.
Exchange with the members of the Silbersberg association
Foto Credits: Astrid Reitter (BAB)
