ALTOS DE CAZUCÁ COMMUNITY

In a country scarred by a decades-long conflict, InnoSocial has been dedicated to fostering unity among diverse social groups, including those directly impacted by the war called “desplazados” and those transitioning to civilian life part of the “FARC” or “ELN”. With a steadfast dedication to making a positive difference, the organization groundbreaking projects have focused on empower individuals and communities grappling with socio-economic difficulties. The work has been very challenging due to the nature of the 60 year war and the consequences that the country went through and the trauma.

Our research team embarked on a transformative mission to address the aftermath of war and inequality in Colombia, a developing country that has endured significant challenges. One prevailing issue we aimed to tackle was the prevalent mindset that cheating and stealing were perceived as the quickest means to make a living. We recognized the urgent need to shift this mindset and instill a culture of honesty and integrity within the community.

With a strong focus on reconciliation, peace, and inclusion, our objective was to design an innovative social and behavioral change approach that would effectively challenge these deeply ingrained beliefs. By conducting extensive user-centered research, we sought to understand the underlying factors contributing to this mindset and identify strategic interventions that could bring about lasting change.

We started a comprehensive approach to address the underlying issues within the community and create a positive shift towards honesty and integrity. Recognizing the lack of basic values in the community, particularly among the youth, we organized workshops and debates that focused on instilling essential values and understanding the root causes of the problem in Colombia.

By delving into the core of the issue, we aimed to lay a solid foundation for change. Through these workshops, we empowered individuals with new perspectives and opportunities, encouraging them to reevaluate their actions and choices. By challenging prevailing notions and emphasizing the benefits of honesty and integrity, we sought to promote a profound change in mindset.

Once the workshops were completed, we transitioned to phase 2, where we leveraged user-centered design principles and integrated technology to assist the community in creating their own businesses. With the aim of exploring alternative pathways to livelihoods, we facilitated the development of innovative ideas that aligned with their skills and resources. By incorporating technology, we provided tools and resources that would enhance their entrepreneurial journey, empowering them to pursue honest and ethical means of living.

Through our holistic approach, we aimed to foster a culture of trust, fairness, and social progress within the community. Our ultimate goal was to contribute to Colombia's journey of growth, resilience, and transformation by equipping individuals with the necessary skills, values, and resources to create a better future.

OUTCOMES OF THE PROJECT

• The Project was done after the 3 years of the historic signature of the Peace Process in Colombia and there were members of the community that were victims and victimizers. Our project helped to develop a social collision within the community promoting peace and reconciliation.

• From the project 15 entrepreneurs created their own business, 12 of them are currently operating, 5 of them were single moms entrepreneurs.

• During the project we developed a workshop about domestic violence and 2 days after, the team of researchers, social workers, and volunteers were stolen with guns but 60% decided to come back to the community. A month after we made an agreement with the local police that was not able to enter in the community to establish a special office that protected the families of the community and the outsiders that worked inside of it supported by the local leaders.