I’m excited to share some amazing news about a project close to my heart that empowers women globally – and it all started in Italy! It’s called Viva Vittoria, and I’m thrilled to be part of it as a volunteer, supporting its online communication on Facebook and Instagram (and soon on Pinterest, fingers crossed!). This post is written by me as an individual, so I’m using my own words to describe it.
What is Viva Vittoria?
Viva Vittoria is a “Shared Relational Work” that organizes events to raise funds to support organizations dedicated to helping women affected by violence. (spoiler: Have you ever seen those aerial images of incredible urban and rural landscapes full of colorful blankets? Yeah, that kind of event).
How does Viva Vittoria Work?
Viva Vittoria is a movement that brings communities together to take a stand against violence toward women -One knitted (or crocheted) square at a time. People who want to say “NO” to violence can make a 50x50cm square that will be part of a magnificent fundraising event -each square will have the signature of the creator, which makes everything more special.
Those squares will not be exposed alone, they will be stitched with a red thread that symbolizes the connection to become a blanket. 4 squares are 1 blanket. So each blanket includes the work of 5 different people. Once the blankets are ready and the day of the event arrives, the volunteers will cover the city’s main square, filling with color the iconic location.
Visitors can visit the installation, choose their favorite (and unique) blanket, and make an offer. All the raised funds will be allocated to centers anti-violence centers and associations that help women who suffer from violence.
Viva Vittoria Next Events
Once a new event is born, it will be published on their official website, vivavittoria.it Always check the website to find the official information. Cristina Begni, one of the founders and President of Viva Vittoria is always available to help with doubts at info@vivavittoria.it
Benefits of Knitting and Crocheting
I love this project for so many reasons. It’s not only helping the organization that will receive the funds, but it is also bringing joy to people who participate in the process. Knitting and crocheting are powerful activities for both mental and physical well-being.
I enjoy knitting and crocheting surrounded by like-minded people, that’s how I learned about Viva Vittoria. I was going to learn how to crochet and knit every other Thursday at a bar called Rab, where we had the “Aperitivo Sferruzzante,” and the teacher was Nicoletta Confalonieri. She is one of the kindest women I have ever met; you can follow her on Sferruzzamente to see her knitting and crocheting courses.
Crocheting also helps me focus and concentrate. When I’m too anxious, I try to start a simple project to keep my hands busy and free my mind of all the worrying things. Like starting a magic circle and do rounds and rounds until I get tired.
Knitting is more challenging for me, but I’m working on a new project and every time I finish a line it feels so rewarding.
How to participate in Viva Vittoria?
Follow Viva Vittoria on Instagram and Facebook to get the latest news. Also, visit the site to find the official information. Once a new event is born, each city will have its own Instagram and Facebook profiles sharing all the news. You can go to “New Projects” and find all the links to the upcoming cities.
Can I run a Viva Vittoria event in my city even if it’s outside of Italy?
Absolutely, you need to contact Cristina Begni at info@vivavittoria.it to start planning it!
Here are some pictures of my visit to Viva Vittoria (Brescia)
