AS Roma Launches Social Initiative with Twinning Project at Rebibbia Prison

On March 12, a new social utility initiative was launched with the participation of AS Roma, at the Rebibbia Prison. The yellow-red club signed the membership and collaboration agreement to the educational rehabilitation program "Twinning Project". CEO Lina Souloukou, Chief Football Operating Officer Maurizio Lombardo, and AS Roma striker Tammy Abraham (currently injured) were present. David Dein, founder of the project and former vice-president of Arsenal, and the CEO of Twinning Project Italy, Sasha Fugazzola, were also present. The representatives of Roma signed the contract and subsequently went to the prison's football field to greet the participants and take some photos. "We are honored to have been chosen as the first club in Italy to collaborate on this project of great social relevance", declared Lina Souloukou. "The Twinning Project is proof of how football can impact people's lives in any condition, even in extremely difficult situations like detention. The Friedkin Family and AS Roma commit every day to try to return to their community a benefit commensurate with the passion and affection that is shown daily by the Roman people. For this reason, knowing that thanks to this contribution it will be possible to offer a new opportunity to those who have erred, makes us proud and stimulates us to operate more and more as a true social platform". Sasha Fugazzola, CEO of Twinning Project Italy, commented: "We are thrilled to collaborate with AS Roma as the first Club. We were extremely impressed by their immediate understanding and commitment to the community and social responsibility aspect of the project. Football can unleash a powerful positive force and the Twinning Project will use it to help people change their lives once they leave prison. In Italy, work is already underway in prison communities to reduce recidivism, and this initiative will be based on a structured and proven football program. We believe that the Twinning Project will really make a difference for individuals and communities across the country". The Twinning Project, which originated in the United Kingdom and which Roma inaugurates first in Italy, involves the twinning between professional football teams and penal institutions to offer concrete opportunities to better prepare inmates for release, find employment, and reduce the recidivism rate. The agreement provides for the club's coaches to go to Rebibbia weekly to hold a basic course for inmates who want to learn the basics to train as future coaches. The lessons will cover topics such as improving communication and reflection, teamwork, planning, leadership, conflict resolution, and improving physical and mental health.