Celebrating the conclusion of AMPLE Warsaw with Otwarte Drzwi Association
Launch of “You can do it” guide and community picnic.
A year of learning and growth
AMPLE Warsaw project, led locally by the Otwarte Drzwi Association in partnership with EIT Food, celebrated its conclusion this September, marking an exciting milestone while opening new opportunities for participants to grow, learn, and explore future possibilities. The project empowered participants with intellectual disabilities to enhance their practical skills, acquire professional experience, and strengthen their confidence for working in the food sector.
Closing celebrations: guide, certificates, and community spirit
The final event, held on 28 August 2025, brought together participants, partners, and local community members. Highlights included the launch of the guide “You Can Do It! 5 Steps to Employment”, the premiere of video materials on supported employment, and a certificate ceremony celebrating participants’ achievements.
The day ended on a festive note with the “Garden of Flavours” community picnic. Guests sampled a variety of sweet and savoury dishes prepared by participants, alongside grilled meals offered by the social enterprise Kuchnia Czerwony Rower. Beyond the delicious food, the picnic created a warm and welcoming space for neighbours, partners, and participants to connect, share stories, and celebrate their accomplishments together.
Workshops and hands-on experiences
Over the past year, AMPLE Warsaw has offered vocational activation workshops, culinary training, experimental kitchen sessions, and job trials. Guided by experienced coaches and mentors from Otwarte Drzwi Association, participants strengthened practical skills, built confidence, and explored opportunities in the labour market.
This was one of the most important supported employment projects we have carried out in our 30 years of work. I am very grateful to EIT Food for this collaboration, and I congratulate all participants for completing their workshops and job trials.
Resources for lasting impact
The project also produced valuable resources, co-created with participants and designed by Galeria Apteka Sztuki – an innovative social enterprise operating as a Vocational Activity Centre and employing people with disabilities. These resources include the “You Can Do It!” pocket guide and four educational videos, which will continue to support individuals seeking inclusive employment pathways.
The guide is designed to be practical, accessible, and easy to read. It covers essential topics such as types of employment, contracts, preparing for interviews, and an overview of jobs in the food industry, including their characteristics. Its colourful design and clear layout make it a helpful and engaging source of knowledge for anyone exploring work opportunities.
A shared commitment to inclusion
This collaboration between EIT Food and the Otwarte Drzwi Association reflects a shared dedication to social inclusion and creating employment opportunities. By equipping participants with practical skills and showcasing their talents, the project has paved the way for sustainable work and a more inclusive food system in Warsaw.
I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to lead the AMPLE Warsaw program. What makes this experience truly meaningful is the chance to work with remarkable organisations and people. The Otwarte Drzwi Association is a wonderful example – through their initiative, real change has been made. The impact goes beyond the skills gained; it is also about creating future opportunities, a sense of belonging, and inclusion in society and professional life. This value is immeasurable.
Experience the celebration – watch the video highlights
Feel the energy and excitement of the day by watching the video coverage. Hear directly from participants, trainers, and organisers as they share their stories and experiences, and see how the project brought together learning, creativity, and a vibrant sense of community.
Photos by: Olek Urbański
About the Programme
The AMPLE Program has been created by EIT Food with support from the Citi Foundation’s inaugural Global Innovation Challenge, a new model to identify and provide philanthropic support to community organizations that are developing innovative solutions to social and economic challenges facing low-income communities. The inaugural Global Innovation Challenge provided USD 25 million to 50 community organisations working to improve food security and strengthen the financial health of low-income families around the world.