With a rise in drug trade and a spike in violence, Rosario, Argentina has the highest murder rate in the country. In 2013, the number of murders rose by 76%. This year, the figures are expected to be even higher. And despite the construction boom, and prosperous agricultural sector, 30% of Rosario’s population still lives in poverty.
One NGO is working to give children new opportunities and fight the root of poverty. This week’s “Game Changer” is Mario Raimondi. Raimondi is one of the co-founders of the Desafio Foundation. Their philosophy is to give children with difficult backgrounds the opportunity to unleash their talent and unleash their potential. The foundation works with 110 children and has 25 staff members with over 500 volunteers.
In 2001, Argentina suffered its worst ever crisis. Around the country citizens took to the streets. The protests made news around the world, as well as violent clashes with the police. For Raimondi, it was an awakening moment. “I saw the people, and felt like getting involved in the life of the country. It was painful but a wake-up call.”
“I think this is also a problem for the whole society, not just those in poverty, they are still a part of society. Poverty is a problem for everyone.” Raimondi also says that doing the small things can make big changes. “Just a small concept impacts someone else’s life in such a strong way,” he says.
Take a look at this week’s Game Changer, Mario Raimondi.

Game Changer: Mario Raimondi

With a rise in drug trade and a spike in violence, Rosario, Argentina has the highest murder rate in the country. In 2013, the number of murders rose by 76%. This year, the figures are expected to be even higher. And despite the construction boom, and prosperous agricultural sector, 30% of Rosario’s population still lives in poverty. One NGO is working to give children new opportunities and fight the root of poverty. This week’s “Game Changer” is Mario Raimondi. Raimondi is one of the co-founders of the Desafio Foundation. Their philosophy is to give children with difficult backgrounds the opportunity to unleash their talent and unleash their potential. The foundation works with 110 children and has 25 staff members with over 500 volunteers. In 2001, Argentina suffered its worst ever crisis. Around the country citizens took to the streets. The protests made news around the world, as well as violent clashes with the police. For Raimondi, it was an awakening moment. “I saw the people, and felt like getting involved in the life of the country. It was painful but a wake-up call.” “I think this is also a problem for the whole society, not just those in poverty, they are still a part of society. Poverty is a problem for everyone.” Raimondi also says that doing the small things can make big changes. “Just a small concept impacts someone else’s life in such a strong way,” he says. Take a look at this week’s Game Changer, Mario Raimondi.