Mission
To promote the integration, education, and personal and social development of people with functional diversity —physical, sensory, or intellectual— fostering their autonomy and active participation in society.
Mission, Vision & Values
Vision
To be a reference association for inclusion and happiness, where everyone can grow, share experiences, and be valued for who they are, not for their limitations.
Values
Inclusion: Everyone has a place in society.
Respect: We value diversity as a strength.
Autonomy: We encourage independence and lifelong learning.
Solidarity: We grow together by supporting one another.
Our name and its symbolic image
“Aljófar” is a word that means a small pearl or a group of tiny pearls. For the association, this image has become a metaphor for our members: each one with their own shine, story and value, which deserves to be cared for and protected.
The representative image we use shows two human figures embracing a pearl placed at the centre. That pearl symbolises the uniqueness of each person, while the figures evoke the community that accompanies, supports and helps that potential grow.
The surrounding, circular shape suggests a safe, open and inclusive space where no one is left out. The blue and green colours evoke calm, trust, growth and hope; the pearl and white tones bring light and remind us of our shared goal: to seek happiness, not normality.
We wanted to reserve this space to share this symbolic image and explain what Aljófar means: a community that welcomes, protects and allows each person to shine just as they are.
Our history
- 2007 The Andalusian Association ALJÓFAR was founded in Castilleja de la Cuesta to promote the integration, education, and development of people with functional diversity.
- 2010 Crafts, computer, dance, and morning workshops became established.
- 2015 The association expanded its participation in local events and inclusion projects.
- 2019 A new initiative was born through collaboration between students and teachers.
- 2021 Community service projects became consolidated.
- 2023 ALJÓFAR continued its work with the support of the Castilleja de la Cuesta Town Council, Fundación Caixa, and the Association of the Three Wise Men.
- 2024 We expanded our network of partnerships and volunteers.
Organization
President María Bernabé García
Vice President María Dolores Báez Rodríguez
Secretary and Treasurer Antonio Granja Buiza
Board member Rosa Murillo Jiménez
Board member Janet Cárdenas Usandevares