Amaya, a 15-year-old member of Domingo Savio, describes it as a safe place, akin to a family where everyone is united, transcending blood relations. She emphasizes the empathy shared among all generations, creating an environment where no one judges or criticizes, making it a secure and familial space.
Having joined at the age of 8 or 7, Amaya recalls a funny and memorable experience of water balloon fights. They gathered, used balloons filled with water, engaged in activities, and eventually threw them at each other. Laughter echoed as they ended up drenched in water.
Her favorite workshop is Folklore dance, and lately, they have been extensively involved in Folklore activities.
Domingo Savio has equipped Amaya with various skills. She highlights a reinforcement workshop where they dedicated time to help with homework, providing support in subjects like math and science. They even offered laptops for computer assignments and aided those who initially struggled with reading. Amaya mentions helping twins, who arrived at the age of 7 without knowing how to read, and now they read perfectly, emphasizing the sense of family and teamwork.
Reflecting on how Domingo Savio has helped her face personal problems, Amaya expresses deep gratitude. She arrived as a child and confided in the staff about things she might not have shared with her mother. During a period of mourning in 2019, Amaya found solace in sharing her feelings at the club, and the staff provided unwavering support in various ways.
Amaya acknowledges personal growth, attributing it to the empathetic environment where everyone learns to understand each other. She mentions maturing, gaining a broader perspective on challenging situations, and learning to appreciate values. The club has instilled gratitude, respect, and good manners in all its members.
To Amaya, Domingo Savio is synonymous with family.
When asked about what makes Domingo Savio different, Amaya attributes it to love. She emphasizes that everything—learning, teaching, and providing tools—is done with love and affection. While other institutions may carry out their activities as a routine, Domingo Savio stands out by offering tools with genuine care and warmth. The focus on empathy and love shapes the unique character of Domingo Savio.