L’Espérance celebrates 150 years of integration and sharing
The specialized institution for people with disabilities celebrates a rich history. A new “sensory” space has been set up as a symbol.
Posted today at 07:27
A sensory garden has been laid out to mark in an original way the 150th anniversary of the institution which welcomes people with disabilities in Étoy.
24 HEURES/VANESSA CARDOSO
“In 1872, the adventure began without running water. Refueling was done in a communal fountain. What a journey and what determination to arrive at this year of the 150e!” slips the municipal of Étoy Jean-Marc Schlaeppi. This anecdote sums up well the evolution of the L’Espérance foundation.
For his 150e anniversary, the specialized establishment for people with disabilities launched a whole series of festivities on August 31st. In addition to the traditionally organized music festival, the management also wanted to create a new space for residents: a sensory garden.
“We have grown aromatic plants, which will help develop the sense of smell, describes Dominique Pont, from the entertainment department of L’Espérance. This will give the recipients the opportunity to recognize certain foods that they might find on their plate.”
Jean-Claude Pittet is the general manager of L’Espérance, in Étoy.
VANESSA CARDOSO/24 HEURES
In a century and a half, no less than 2,000 beneficiaries have benefited from the structures of L’Espérance. “It’s a life project that we have built with them,” assures director Jean-Claude Pittet with a touch of pride. Today, around 300 adults take courses in more than 20 workshops.
The origins of the place
A man very committed to the integration of people with disabilities, Auguste Buchet created the L’Espérance foundation in 1872. It must be said that at the time, the needs for specialized reception were very important, while suitable places were sorely lacking.
In 1903, the first workshops were set up within the institution, which notably acquired two vines in order to employ some of the boys to work the land. Throughout the XXe century, L’Espérance continues to grow, becoming an essential institution comprising 17 buildings spread over 11 hectares. This gives a small idea of the major role it plays in this very specific field, with in particular 23 workshops between Étoy and Gland.
Challenges for the future
During the launch of the festivities that will punctuate the days to come, director Jean-Claude Pittet took the opportunity to discuss avenues for the future in the field of support for people with disabilities.
“Today, the latter are experiencing a spectacular increase in their life expectancy. This contributes to completely renewing the care systems”, he underlined, noting in passing an unpreparedness of the institutional systems and a shortage of qualified personnel as challenges for the years to come.
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