Aura Foundation Summer Gala

The Aura Foundation was established to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) by promoting social and work inclusion. Aura is committed to broadening the range of opportunities available to people with IDs and to help them grow both professionally and personally via three strategic axes: improvement of learning, digital transformation and applied research to the labour integration laboratory. The incorporation of those with intellectual disabilities into the workplace plays a vital role in their ability to connect with others and achieve some independence.

The Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF) has always been deeply committed to improving the lives of people with IDs. On Catalan territory through the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation – Delegació a Catalunya and Aura Foundation it was able to the found Elsa Peretti Academy with the aim of improving the quality of care and increasing the training of people with IDs. By strengthening leadership within networks and alliances in Barcelona’s metropolitan area, the Academy has established itself as an innovative leader in learning methodologies and strategies.

On July 3rd, the annual Aura Foundation Summer Gala was held in Barcelona at the Coliseum Theater, gathering more than 1,200 people and coinciding with the celebration of the organization’s 35th anniversary. During the gala, Aura’s core mission was also emphasized: supporting people with intellectual disabilities through their labor and social inclusion.

The Summer Gala is an incredibly emotional event that the Foundation holds annually to showcase the achievements over the past year. The true protagonists of the night are the individuals with intellectual disabilities who are part of Aura, as they are the driving force behind each project.

During the gala their progress in the workplace was presented, recognizing the inclusive companies that have hired them. The event brought together collaborating companies, participants of the organisation, Aura professionals, and their families in an atmosphere of unity and celebration. The big announcement of the night was the important collaboration with the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation. Thanks to the NaEPF support, the new Training Academy will open its doors in just a few months, allowing Aura to offer a broader, higher-quality training program oriented toward the job market. Additionally, it will enable Aura to expand into a larger space, allowing to accommodate many more people.