Guachupita is a marginalized neighborhood located to the East of Santo Domingo the capital of the Dominican Republic. It is mostly conformed by people who have migrated from rural areas into the city in search of better lives. Historically known for being dangerous and drug-ridden, this barrio lacks basic services ( potable water, electricity, waste removal) that are necessary for the progress of a community.
One of the most common issues they face daily is juvenile deliquency due to limited education access. This in turn generates multiple problems and a high rate of unemployment which enables a poverty cycle that can be very difficult to break. When we look at Guachupita we see chaos everywhere, but we believe that amidst chaos there is also opportunity. With the production of our shirts we aim to improve the life of young people, who despite the fact of having been raised under these circumstances strive to overcome and not be defined by their surroundings. Along with FURJUS, a locally based organization, US-AID, and Annibal Segura's Atelier we have created an outreach program that allows young men to be trained and learn the tools of the trade involved in the manufacturing of menswear to later be placed into production lines, ensuring a formal job. At VIRTŪ we do our best to teach people how to fish; its about collaboration, empowerment and building a better future for us all.
One of the most common issues they face daily is juvenile deliquency due to limited education access. This in turn generates multiple problems and a high rate of unemployment which enables a poverty cycle that can be very difficult to break. When we look at Guachupita we see chaos everywhere, but we believe that amidst chaos there is also opportunity. With the production of our shirts we aim to improve the life of young people, who despite the fact of having been raised under these circumstances strive to overcome and not be defined by their surroundings. Along with FURJUS, a locally based organization, US-AID, and Annibal Segura's Atelier we have created an outreach program that allows young men to be trained and learn the tools of the trade involved in the manufacturing of menswear to later be placed into production lines, ensuring a formal job. At VIRTŪ we do our best to teach people how to fish; its about collaboration, empowerment and building a better future for us all.
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