“New Horizons” a Social co-operative enterprise
In May 2012, a Development Partnership with the name “EPANODOS” – “Re-enter”, implemented a “European program of Local Interventions for Special Social Groups” which aimed at supporting ex- prisoners in their effort to be re-integrated in the open community. Support offered in the frame of the above program, included counseling services that focused on the involvement of the beneficiaries in the labor market. These services included legal and occupational counseling, psycho- social support and a follow- up supervision for a period of three months after they have been hired. Skills development, self- image strengthening and creating an occupational development plan were some of the main objectives of the program.
The participants were supported in creating or enriching their CV, taking part in role- play, so as to be ready for job interviews and were exposed to the legal and organizational conditions of today’s labor market.A big part of the program was the promotion of social entrepreneurship. In this framework, the participants had the opportunity to create and run a social co-operative enterprise involved in the field of green economy, with themselves as members and employees.
Their entrepreneurial initiative was supported by the 180- hours training course they received as part of the program, considering “Green Development”.In June 2014, the social co- operation, called “New Horizons” that ten beneficiaries of this program created, commenced operations. “New Horizons” members are highly motivated people with knowledge and professional experience from diverse working environments. Its business scope mainly includes cleaning buildings and office facilities as well as maintaining gardens. The most important is that as “New Horizons” operates under an environmental consciousness, uses environmental- friendly methods for cleaning, fertilizing, etc.
