Livelihood Programs
Given the importance of promoting youth and supporting entrepreneurship and income-generating initiatives for people in need, Saint John intends to create livelihood projects and employ vulnerable Jordanians.
Saint John has ideas for holding workshops in Madaba Governorate to support work in the tourism sector, food processing, handicrafts, and mosaic making. A building was rented from the Jordanian government to implement projects to support the local community to work in tourism to generate income, as well as provide community services to the Jordanian community. The proposed intervention will enhance the ongoing efforts of Saint John that have market links with local centers in each sector. The project will conduct vocational training for participants developed in consultation with sector experts. They will then receive practical training in the center's workshops, where they will receive immediate technical support and the opportunity to apply the skills they have learned in the training courses.
We will restore the tourist site for which the agreement was signed with the Ministry of Tourism
This project seeks to build on the current livelihood projects in Madaba Governorate.
The overall goal of this project is to create economic and civic engagement opportunities for youth in Jordan through self-employment and collaboration with CBOs and local officials.
The project will achieve this goal through the following objectives:
1. Increase employment and entrepreneurship skills of 30 youth from Madaba
2. Increase 3 Community-based organizations (CBOs) response to youth economic growth issues by actively coordinating with youth and local governments to create an enabling environment for youth employment.
The project will result in:
1- Enrolling 30 youths in the entrepreneurial soft and technical skills training program handcraft and cuisine
2- Restoring an archaeological site dating back to the Ottoman era through the participation of the local community in the restoration work and increasing community awareness of the importance of the antiquities through their participation in the restoration work
That aims to secure vulnerable Jordanians by providing cash for training and work throughout the existing Business Definition Area at Dar Al Saraya. This initiative is not only beneficial for the vulnerable population but also helps in promoting the site as a tourist destination and contributes to the Jordanian economy.
Dar Al Saraya - Madaba
In cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, an old building dating back to the Ottoman period, which was the headquarters of the Ottoman governor, was transformed into a place to sell local products, including handicrafts and mosaics, to support and empower local associations and people with disabilities, in cooperation with the Saint John Charitable Society.
Empowering Girls Through Mosaic Art in Madaba heritage Saraya Building
A few months ago, a remarkable project was launched in the heritage Saraya building in Madaba, creating a dedicated training space for girls to learn the intricate art of mosaic-making.
This initiative not only aims to preserve and celebrate Madaba’s renowned mosaic tradition but also empowers young women by equipping them with valuable skills.
The project includes a designated area within the building for selling their handcrafted mosaic pieces, providing a direct link to local and international markets.
This dual-purpose setup fosters economic independence for the participants while promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region, transforming the Saraya building into a vibrant hub of artistry and opportunity.
Mosaic Art Workshops
Saint John Charitable Association offers a unique cultural experience for tourists through specialized services that immerse visitors in the country’s rich heritage.
Among these, hands-on mosaic-making workshops stand out, allowing travelers to craft their own intricate designs while learning about the art form’s storied history.
Originating in the sixth century AD during the Byzantine era, mosaics flourished across Jordan, adorning churches and public spaces with vibrant geometric and religious motifs.
Over centuries, this tradition evolved, blending Umayyad Islamic influences and transforming into a celebrated handicraft practiced by local artisans today.
Tourists can now collaborate with skilled craftspeople in cities like Madaba, famed for its mosaic map, to create personalized souvenirs while discovering how this ancient art sustains livelihoods and connects communities across generations.
Community Empowerment Through a Modern Coffee House Initiative
The St. John Charitable Association has successfully attracted a local investor to establish a modern coffee house, creating a valuable opportunity for the community. This initiative aims to employ local workers, offering stable jobs and income to support families in the area.
The coffee house serves as more than just a business; it is envisioned as a vibrant social hub where residents and visitors can connect, fostering a sense of community while boosting the local economy. By partnering with an investor, society has taken a significant step toward sustainable development, ensuring long-term benefits for families and the broader community.
