Page 5 - INNO4CHANGE_WP3_M6_Self-study session_EN

GOING LOCAL

In the heart of Bologna, in September 2013, an idea destined to change the face of

social relationships within urban communities was born: "Social Street." It all began

with a Facebook group named "Residenti in Via Fondazza - Bologna." Its creation was a

tangible response to the awareness of the impoverishment of social relationships, a

plague that led to loneliness, urban decay, and a loss of a sense of belonging to the

community.

The spirit of Social Street is based on the idea of promoting good neighbourliness,

encouraging socialisation among residents of the same street. The goal is to establish

meaningful connections, share needs, professional skills, knowledge, and collaborate

on collective projects of common interest, aiming to reap the benefits of increased

social interaction.

The pillars that supported the success of Social Street are multiple. Firstly, the strategic

use of Facebook as a platform, a widely used and free social network, proved essential.

The use of a closed group on Facebook facilitated the transition from the virtual to the

real, preventing abuse and focusing on the authenticity of interactions.