Práticas educativas na associação beneficente recriando a vida: acolhimento de crianças e adolescentes em Erechim

Abstract

This dissertation investigated the educational practices involved in volunteer work within the Associação Beneficente Recriando a Vida in Erechim, Rio Grande do Sul, through the lens of Popular and Social Education. The interest in this topic stems from the author's work in a public university and the desire to understand how organized civil society supports individuals in vulnerable situations, especially in the face of public sector limitations. Based on Paulo Freire’s teachings on the transformative power of education and its role in fostering self-esteem, the study sought to answer the following question: to what extent do the volunteers' educational practices at Associação Beneficente Recriando a Vida contribute to the social inclusion of the children and adolescents involved? The general objective was to identify the educational practices carried out by the volunteers and understand their contribution to the social inclusion of the young participants. The specific objectives included characterizing the concepts of Popular and Social Education, presenting the association and its operational context, diagnosing the challenges faced by the volunteers, and developing a guiding document as an educational product. The research is justified by its relevance to the Graduate Program in Education at UFFS – Erechim Campus, particularly within the research line focused on Non-formal and Popular Education. The study aimed to generate scientific knowledge on the topic and provide a practical return to society through the creation of a guiding document for volunteers. Methodologically, it followed a qualitative and exploratory approach, using bibliographic research and a case study. Data collection included semi-structured interviews and on-site observations, seeking to identify educational practices that support the social inclusion of children and adolescents into society and the world of work. The results revealed a strong concern for welcoming and meeting the basic needs of those involved; however, there is a lack of organization and intentional focus on the emancipation of the individuals.