Operationalization of social work at AGECO Trajectory, fractures, and innovation at a non-govermental organization

Abstract

The Costa Rican Gerontological Association (Ageco, for its acronym in Spanish) has 42 years of experience. During those years, it has been dedicated to attending – from critical, gerontological, and social justice perspectives – to the participation and learning needs of the elderly, as well as those of the aging population. Currently, more than 4,000 people from around the country participate
in the institution’s eight offered programs, as well as at a project that provides spaces devoted to the experience of active aging.

This text revives social work’s professional responsibility through four readings: the organizational context, work spaces within the area of gerontological programs, institutional achievements, and the challenges of working in a non-governmental organization.

In conclusion, there is confirmation that social work within a non-governmental organization, specifically Ageco, performs both socio-educational and promotional work; likewise, this diversity of function contributes to creating reflective processes that make possible continuous innovations in this work with beneficiary populations, according to their needs and potential.