The American International League of Florence (AILO) is helping children’s charity Soccorso Clown to spread magic through hospitals and elderly facilities in Florence.
Jocelyn Fitzgerald, Dr. Bobo and Judi Roselli-Cecconi
AILO and Soccorso Clown have a 12-year relationship. On October 18, a “thank you” ceremony was held at Soccorso Clown’s office, attended by AILO’s current president Judi Roselli-Cecconi and previous president Jocelyn Fitzgerald. The AILO representatives presented new lab coats and other tools of the trade purchased through a generous contribution by AILO. In return, artistic director Vladimir Olshansky, aka Dottore Bobo, and several of the hospital clowns gave a demonstration of the methods used when working with children and the elderly. Also in attendance were AILO’s vice-president Maria Teresa Medri, Soccorso Clown’s administrative director Caterina Turi and several happy hospital clowns.
At the Soccorso Clown’s offices
Soccorso Clown is a charitable organization, the first hospital clown care service in Italy. Established in Florence in 1997, the programs are present in hospitals and elderly facilities throughout Tuscany, Rome and Milan. Each year, more than 40,000 children and over 1,000 elderly people have their hospital stay made a little easier, and each patient and resident is rewarded with a smile that will never be forgotten.
AILO Vice-President Maria Teresa Medri, current president Judi Roselli-Cecconi and previous president Jocelyn Fitzgerald
AILO is a charitable ONLUS organization, founded in 1975 and based in Florence, with members from around the world. The mission is to contribute to community well-being through programs of social assistance and fundraising for charity, within the city and province of Florence. AILO endeavours to promote friendship and understanding between its members and the Italian community, through its cultural and social activities.
Each year AILO chooses 10-12 Florentine charities, donating monies raised through their annual Christmas Bazaar, held on the first weekend in December. This year, the Bazaar will be held on December 2 and 3 (3.30-7pm on Saturday, 10.30am-7pm on Sunday) at the Convitto della Calza, near Porta Romana. Join in the fun, buy your holiday gifts while helping AILO spread joy by funding worthwhile charities in Florence.
Soccorso Clown onlus
Via Montebello 32, Florence
+39 338 7144970
