IMPACT OF THE CRESCER PROJECT ON CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS AT RISK AND IN SITUATIONS OF SOCIAL VULNERABILITY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF URUGUAIANA-RS

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of the Projeto CRESCER (Project GROW) on children and adolescents aged 7 to 15 who are at risk and/or in situations of social vulnerability in the municipality of Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The project is a socio-educational, cultural, and instructional initiative that aims to promote values such as citizenship, responsibility, empathy, respect, education, and health. Structured around seven pillars, its methodology encompasses psychomotor, socio-cognitive, and religious practices, combined with the encouragement of teamwork, discipline, and the holistic development of participants. Implemented in partnership with the Department of Social Development (SEDES), the Municipal Department of Sports and Leisure (SMEL), and local private companies, the project primarily operates within the territory served by CRAS III, which covers 23 neighborhoods with significant social complexity. The relevance of this study lies in understanding the concrete effects of local public policies directed at childhood and adolescence in vulnerable contexts, enabling the identification of best practices, gaps, and opportunities for improvement. By highlighting the outcomes achieved, this research aims to support the strengthening of strategies and public policies that are more effective and sensitive to the realities of the communities served.