Our association's general meeting took place last week. It was an opportunity to review our mission and our 2025 figures.
For 25 years, Arca has been driving transformation in the Vila Prudente favela in São Paulo, operating on the belief that breaking cycles of vulnerability requires long-term presence and continuity. Our work spans all life stages — from childhood through adulthood — through two core programs:
Arca do Saber, which offers children and teenagers a safe space for learning, culture, and community,
and Arca do Crescer, which provides young adults with vocational training, mentorship, and pathways to financial independence.
To support this mission sustainably, Arca runs two self-financing social businesses — Le Pain and l'Atelié Arca do Fazer that also serve as vibrant spaces for training, work, and productive inclusion.
Our work originates from the community and remains deeply connected to it. We work within the Vila Prudente favela, recognizing its challenges, but also its potential, talents, and care networks.
ARCA Key Figures 2025
40 employees, 65% are women, 52.5% grew up or still live in the Vila Prudente slum
246 volunteers in the various activities of Arca, both in Brazil and abroad, including volunteers from Arca France
ARCA do Saber:
130 children and adolescents served
83% average attendance at activities
2,142 hours of cultural, sports, and educational workshops: capoeira, languages, digital citizenship, dance, judo, circus arts, percussion, visual arts, rugby and beach tennis
102 families directly supported by the social services team
68,100 meals provided, including breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks
ARCA do Crescer:
455 students directly impacted, including 175 public school students
36 free vocational courses
67% of young people found job opportunities
355 psychological counseling sessions conducted
All of this is possible thanks to you !
