Interview with member of ASSOC organization

If you could describe your organization in one sentence – what would you say?

Bianca: It is an NGO for vulnerable persons.

When did you start working in Romania?

Bianca: We started working here in 1997.

What is the main goal of Assoc?

Bianca: We aim at increasing the chances of social inclusion.

Bianca Pricop Salagean

How many volunteers do you have in Baia Mare office and how many in Romania?

Bianca: We have around 20 volunteers in Baia Mare.

Do you have some foreign volunteers?

Bianca: At the moment we don't have foreign volunteers, but we had a few in the past and we also plan of having some in the future.

What was your biggest undertaking?

Bianca: I would say providing services for old persons. We have a social center for them, we offer counciling food, medical care.

Plans for future?

Bianca: We plan on developing the protected calls, which are all kinds of services for vulnerable people (disabled persons, people with low income, Roma people). We try to find jobs for people who don't have access on the work market.

What activities do you have right now? Is there something special during summer?

Bianca: No, we have no special summer activities. Right now we have the center for old people, which I've already mention and another daily center for youngsters with disabilities.

Is Assoc well known among people in Baia Mare? What are you doing to involve people in your projects?

Bianca: Yes, very, because we promote our services and make them attractive. We even get donations.

From where are you taking your funds to prepare activities, projects, etc?

Bianca: We have funds from the local authorities and from the EU.

What is the biggest problem in your organization?

Bianca: The problem is that our projects last only as long as we get the fundings.

Do you collaborate with any others organizations?

Bianca: Yes, we do. With Esperando, with the public services of social assistance, the Deaf & Blind Assosiacion, AJOFM.