“Bridging more than bonding": good practices of some Sub-Saharan African migrants associations in Verona

This study analyzes some territorial behaviours of the Sub-Saharan African migrants associations in Verona. The main aims of the research project are: to increase the knowledge on roles and functions of recognized African associations in Verona as well as of informal groups; and to shed light and render visible specific realities that could be "models" of creativity and reproducible good practices for integration. Preliminary results confirm that the involved associations adopt common strategies, that is they create opportunities of network, cohesion and collaboration among members, they are of support and help with Italian bureaucracy, and in other difficult life moments such as coffin transport to homeland. Besides all this, some of these associations would desire to develop new economic, cultural and social perspectives aimed to increase relationships among them and with the local territory.