COSIANI launches projects to revitalize Río Piedras.

 Through guided tours, the “Routes of My History” project “explores the history, diversity, and traditions” of Río Piedras, “as well as its importance in the social, economic, political, cultural, and educational development of Puerto Rico,” COSIANI Executive President De’Marie Valentín noted. (Wikipedia)

By THE STAR STAFF

The Integrated Services Cooperative for Children (COSIANI) has announced the launch of two innovative projects designed to strengthen community identity and foster creative collaboration in the Río Piedras urban center.

The initiatives, called “Routes of My History” and “Studio C,” aim to support the social, cultural and economic development of the area.

“Routes of My History is an emerging project that directly contributes to the revitalization of downtown Río Piedras through an educational experience based on cooperative values,” COSIANI Executive President De’Marie Valentín said. “Through guided tours, the project explores the history, diversity, and traditions of the town, as well as its importance in the social, economic, political, cultural, and educational development of Puerto Rico.”

The tours, led by two certified interpreters from the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, are described as interactive, dynamic, fun, and educational experiences suitable for all ages. According to organizers, the experience encourages reflection on the legacy and resilience of Río Piedras and explores possibilities for transforming the urban center.

Meanwhile, “Studio C” -- which highlights the “C” in COSIANI -- offers the community access to professional recording, streaming, and podcasting facilities. The project aims to democratize access to high-quality content production, providing affordable services for cooperatives, schools and non-profit organizations.

“With these projects, we reaffirm our conviction that cooperativism is a powerful tool for community empowerment, education and sustainable development,” said Ever Padilla Ruiz, chairman of COSIANI’s board of directors. “We want Río Piedras to continue being a vibrant, creative space full of opportunities for everyone.”

Both initiatives target schools, educational entities and non-profit organizations interested in integrating cooperative, educational and creative experiences into their community programs.