by Agostino Pellegrino
Villasanta – April 19. An afternoon of solidarity, memories and sharing saw the Milan East Coordination of the Fiat 500 Club Italia as protagonists. At the suggestion of the member Max De Martino, promoted a social initiative at the RSA of Villasanta Villa San Clemente.
Thanks to the collaboration of Barbara, the center's activities manager, and Max himself, organized a small gathering of vintage Fiat 500s, displayed in the center's welcoming courtyard. The initiative, shared via the group's WhatsApp channels, was well received: despite the clash with other events, many members chose to participate, volunteering their time to give guests a few hours of fun.
Once gathered in the courtyard, the guests of the facility They took part in a particularly touching moment: the reading of stories and memories related to the Fiat 500, carefully and sensitively collected by Barbara. During the reading, each story was associated with its protagonist, creating an intense and engaging atmosphere.
I stories They took everyone back in time: some recalled their honeymoon aboard the first 500, others shared funnier and more lighthearted anecdotes about life as a couple, with "ingenious" solutions like modifying the gear lever to make the cabin more... livable. There were also memories of family vacations, with luggage everywhere and up to four children crammed onto the rear bench, nor technical anecdotes about the famous "double-decker," the unmistakable engine noises, and the distinctive smell of the "vipla" seats.
A flurry of smiles, laughter, and moments of genuine emotion permeated the afternoon, creating a special bond among the participants. After the reading, guests were invited to approach the 14 cars on display, allowing them to observe them up close and take souvenir photographs.
Once back inside, Barbara wanted to offer the members a small but very welcome appetizer, based on bubbles, orange juice and savory appetizers, thus prolonging this moment of conviviality and sharing.
In memory of the day, some gifts were donated copies of 4PiccoleRuote and official gadgets, in addition to the presentation of a plaque and a pennant from the Fiat 500 Club Italia, a symbol of our presence and closeness.
It was a meaningful afternoon, during which many of us rediscovered fragments of family life and personal memories, while for others it was an opportunity to bring a little lightheartedness and serenity to those who, too often, live days that are all the same.
A heartfelt thanks goes to all the members who, once again, have demonstrated great sensitivity and spirit of participation, dedicating part of their free time to an initiative with a strong human value, aimed at "our" elderly.
