Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much

 

Helen Keller

Welcome to Elfo Social Cooperative

Since 1998 (and as an association since 1994), the Elfo Social Cooperative has been building a world where differences become strengths and barriers transform into bridges to inclusion. We are a dynamic community of professionals dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering diversity, offering innovative solutions for sensory, cognitive, and physical disabilities.

 

who we are

who we are

Elfo is a mosaic of experiences, people, and visions. We collaborate with public and private institutions, schools, universities, and families to provide tailor-made educational, social, and cultural services. As a mixed cooperative (Type A + B), we combine educational and social interventions with employment inclusion projects. Our team of over 60 members and 120 employees operates across Tuscany, covering Florence, Prato, Pistoia, Lucca, Pisa, Arezzo, Siena, and Grosseto. Based in Florence, we are active throughout Tuscany, partnering with institutions and communities to make a lasting impact

Why Our Services
Make a Difference

  • Personalization: Every project is tailored to the specific needs of the individual, involving families and communities in a shared process.
  • Co-Design: We collaborate with institutions, schools, universities, and associations to create integrated and innovative solutions.
  • Multidisciplinary Approach: Our teams include experts in sensory, cognitive, and relational disabilities, tackling every challenge with competence and passion.
  • Innovation: We experiment with new tools and technologies, such as braille apps and augmented reality for LIS and cognitive impairments, making our interventions more effective and accessible. The use of advanced technologies also distinguishes us from other actors in the social services sector.
  • Concrete Inclusion: We don’t just talk about inclusion; we make it happen through interventions that combine education, autonomy, and active participation in social life.

what we do

  • Educational Support: Personalized programs for children, young people, and adults on the autism spectrum or with severe cognitive disabilities, provided by highly qualified staff.
  • Sign Language Interpretation: Recognized by public and private entities, we collaborate with regional social assistance organizations, the Universities of Florence and Siena, and the Municipality of Florence. We offer Italian Sign Language (LIS) interpretation, public help desks, and support for sensory-disabled individuals through inclusive tourism services in the Florence area.
  • Inclusive Initiatives: Projects and workshops that encourage accessibility and active participation in cultural, recreational, and educational activities.
  • Community Services: Activities that enhance well-being and autonomy, fostering integration and personal growth.
  • Outdoor Education and Early Childhood Services:

what guides us

What guides us

We are inspired by universal values that shape every action we take:

  • Dignity: Everyone deserves to live a full, free, and respected life.
  • Inclusion: A society where everyone has a place and a role.
  • Innovation: Constantly seeking new tools to improve lives.
  • Solidarity: Building lasting relationships within communities.
  • Empathy: Listening deeply to provide tailored interventions.
Our mission

We envision a society where diversity is celebrated and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Through collaboration, innovation, and dedication, we strive to transform challenges into opportunities for inclusion.

Elfo Social Cooperative:

Your Trusted Partner in Italy for International Collaborations

At Elfo Social Cooperative, we believe in the power of collaboration to create inclusive and sustainable solutions. With over 25 years of experience in education, social inclusion, and community development, we are proud to position ourselves as a reliable and skilled partner for international projects.

Who We Work With
We welcome partnerships with NGOs, charitable institutions, foundations, and other organizations that share our vision of fostering inclusion and improving lives. Together, we can co-create impactful initiatives that address social challenges and empower individuals and communities in the EU and all over the world.

Where We Collaborate

Our cooperative is based in Florence, Tuscany, but our aspirations are global. We are eager to partner with organizations across

  • The Mediterranean region
  • The Arab world and North Africa
  • Sub-Saharan Africa
  • The Middle East
  • Eastern Europe
  • The UK
  • The United States of America

What we offer

What we offer

As an experienced partner, we bring to the table:

  • Expertise in education, inclusion, and sensory, cognitive, and physical disability services.
  • A track record of successful collaborations with public and private institutions.
  • Innovative methodologies, including the use of advanced technologies like apps for braille and augmented reality for cognitive and sensory support.
  • A multicultural approach that respects and adapts to the needs of diverse communities.

Let’s Work Together!

For inquiries and proposals, please reach out to us via email at info@cooperativaelfo.it or get in touch with us at: +390556505327

For our Arabic- and French-speaking friends: If you are interested, please contact us in English, and we will be happy to arrange a phone call or video call with one of our staff members who speaks Arabic or French.

Whether you are an NGO, a foundation, or a charitable institution, we invite you to contact us to explore partnership opportunities. Together, we can build bridges between cultures, share expertise, and create meaningful change.

At Elfo Social Cooperative, we truly believe in the transformative power of collaboration and inclusion. By working together, we can create a more accessible and inclusive world where every individual can thrive.Faithful to our mission and guided by our company motto, we believe that work and inclusion can truly transform lives, offering everyone the opportunity to grow and realize their potential.

“To each according to their abilities, for the development of their potential.”

Join our team at Elfo Cooperative!

Elfo Cooperative is always on the lookout for passionate individuals to join our team. We welcome motivated people who are eager to grow professionally and contribute to our mission of making a real difference in the community.

We give preference to candidates with academic backgrounds or proven experience in the socio-educational, psychological, artistic, or humanistic fields. In particular, we value degrees related to disability support and inclusive education, such as Educational and Training Sciences, Pedagogy, Sociology, Anthropology, Physiotherapy, Cultural Mediation, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and other relevant disciplines (including STEM disciplines). However, an academic degree is not a requirement—if you have OSS or ADB certifications, we would love to hear from you as well!

At Elfo Cooperative, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. We proudly welcome people of all genders, ages, backgrounds, sexual orientations, religious beliefs, and abilities. Our goal is to foster a positive, inclusive, and stimulating work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to express themselves freely.

If you’re excited to join our team and contribute to meaningful projects, send us your application! We strongly believe that collaboration between people with diverse skills and experiences is the key to growing together and developing innovative solutions.

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