Ôpen

Ôpen is much more than just a place. Located in the heart of Junglinster, it is a space for citizen and community expression, where ecological values and living come to life together. This initiative was born out of an awareness that arose during the Transition Days organized by CELL and ASTI in 2021, with the theme of third-places. Intrigued by this enigmatic concept, Perrine Pouget decided to create such a place in Junglinster.

"As our association is about to celebrate its two-year anniversary in September 2024, we opened our doors to the public in May 2023. The year 2024 marks for us a phase of stabilization after a rapid and intense start, as well as the completion of the proof of concept."

Like any project in development, the non-profit organization has faced its fair share of challenges. Each obstacle has been an opportunity for learning, from uncertainties about funding on one side to technical aspects of setting up the premises on the other side. But thanks to their determination and shared vision, the members of Ôpen were able to overcome these difficulties. "Adopting sociocracy as a mode of governance also facilitated our ability to bring together and benefit from the diversity of people involved in the project."

It is important to emphasize that this was only possible thanks to the many volunteers who were involved, either directly or indirectly. Ôpen is a project entirely driven by volunteering.

The project being still ongoing, the team members hope to ensure its long life. The lessons they draw from the development of this project are numerous: the strength of the collective, listening, anticipation, and determination are key values. As Perrine Pouget often repeats: "We are not in a sprint but in a marathon."

In the long term, the goal of the project is to sustain Ôpen's presence in the municipality, both economically and in terms of civic and associative engagement. The association hopes to share its experience with other communities, in the hope of seeing more places like this emerge.

What drives team members to continue even after a few obstacles is the belief that unity is strength. Ôpen has fulfilled its mission of general interest and has a positive impact on strengthening social ties and raising ecological awareness.