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Project Objectives:
General Objective:
FÉNIX aims to significantly improve the quality of life of vulnerable elderly individuals with disabilities by strengthening their functional, cognitive, psychosocial, and relational capacities. Through occupational therapy and workshops, the program promotes personal development, fostering an active and dignified aging process.
Specific Objectives:
1. Improve or maintain functional and cognitive abilities through therapy.
2. Promote assertiveness, confidence, and critical thinking.
3. Enhance self-esteem and strengthen social bonds.
4. Prevent the loss of autonomy in daily activities.
5. Strengthen memory, attention, language, and perception skills.
6. Address social and cultural needs.
7. Ensure an active, independent, and fulfilling old age.
8. Develop manual skills for improved self-sufficiency.
Project Description:
FÉNIX responds to the rapid aging of the population and the urgent need for specialized care for elderly individuals with disabilities. According to the WHO, the global elderly population has doubled in recent decades, posing significant social and healthcare challenges. The UN reports that the population of individuals 65 and older now exceeds that of children under five.
In Colombia, official data (DANE) shows a 25.3% increase in the elderly population over the last five years. This demographic shift calls for programs that ensure an active, healthy, and dignified aging process.
Aligned with public policies on aging and disability, FÉNIX is a pioneering initiative designed to improve the well-being, autonomy, and social participation of elderly individuals through personalized attention and structured evaluations.
The program assesses participants in key areas such as mood, physical health, cognitive function, emotional state, and social engagement. A total of 17 indicators are used to measure its impact.
Identified Needs & How FÉNIX Addresses Them:
1. Cognitive, physical, and emotional decline, increasing the risk of mental and physical illnesses. → FÉNIX provides gerontological and psychological care, as well as physical, manual, and relational activities.
2. Geographic barriers in Medellín (steep terrain, inaccessible infrastructure) make mobility difficult for elderly individuals with disabilities. → FÉNIX provides transportation to activity centers.
3. Poverty and food insecurity cause some participants to arrive without having eaten. → FÉNIX provides nutritional snacks before activities.
4. Extreme poverty conditions affect basic living needs. → FÉNIX provides food, wheelchairs, home repairs, and essential supplies.
5. Overburdened caregivers experience physical and emotional exhaustion. → FÉNIX provides relief, rest opportunities, and training for caregivers.
6. Elderly individuals are often excluded from their families. → FÉNIX organizes intergenerational and educational activities to foster inclusion.
7. Some participants require additional psychosocial support. → FÉNIX connects them with institutional resources for further assistance.
Estimated Beneficiaries:
• 130 direct beneficiaries (elderly individuals with disabilities).
• 130 caregivers.
• 400+ family members and support network members.
Sustainability Plan:
To ensure FÉNIX continues beyond its initial funding, the program relies on:
1. Public Sector Support: FÉNIX is being positioned as a citywide initiative in Medellín, working with the local government to integrate it into public policy and programs like "Buen Cuidado."
2. Corporate Sponsorships: Various companies and organizations have provided annual donations as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs.
3. Rotary Club Support: The Rotary Club of Medellín has committed a percentage of its annual surplus to FÉNIX.
4. Program Expansion: As participants gain more independence, the reliance on direct assistance decreases, allowing new individuals to join.
5. Grants & Funding Opportunities: The project actively seeks funding from social benefit programs.
6. Community Fundraising: Activities such as bazaars, raffles, and donation drives are conducted to sustain the program.
7. Community Events: Initiatives such as bingo nights and partnerships with new allies help raise funds and awareness.
Community Involvement:
FÉNIX is designed to be a community-driven project, with participation from:
• Local leaders
• Neighborhood associations (JAC, JAL)
• Gerontology, disability, and health committees
• Educational institutions providing students for internships and professional practice
• Residents and volunteers from the areas where beneficiaries live
The local community plays a key role in identifying elderly individuals in need, securing spaces for activities, training staff, and connecting FÉNIX with new support programs.
Budget Overview:
Concept COP (Colombian Pesos) USD (Approx.)
Total Project Cost 140,855,400 $31,940
Local Rotary Club Contribution 2,085,000 $500
District 4271 Contribution 2,085,000 $500
International Rotary Club Contributions TBD TBD
Colombian District Contributions TBD TBD
International District Contributions TBD TBD
Rotary Foundation Support TBD TBD
Final Message:
With your support, FÉNIX will continue changing lives, restoring dignity, and ensuring that no elderly person with disabilities is left behind.
For more information, please contact:
📩 Didier Vélez Madrid / Dora Luz Mejía Piedrahita
📧 didiervema@gmail.com / gerencia.refugiosc@gmail.com
📞 (+57) 300 616-2717 / (+57) 315 822-5182
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