ASSOCIATIVISM IN THE SÃO REMO COMMUNITY: FUNDING, PARTICIPATION, AND INCOME GENERATION

Abstract

The analyses conducted in this paper stem from the author's Master's research, which investigated the participatory experiences of residents of São Remo, a community neighboring USP's University Campus, in various collective actions in the territory. Through field observations and social media research, were mapped, in 2023, collectives, associations, and civil society organizations that develop educational, political, sports, cultural, and artistic activities in São Remo. The participatory experiences of those involved in the mapped collective actions were investigated through 27 comprehensive interviews and the administration of socioeconomic questionnaires. This specific paper discusses the varied situations of the various actors within São Remo's associativism regarding financial resources, sources and forms of financing, and income generation. The collectives, associations, and organizations mapped face difficulties in formalization, professionalization, financing, and dependence on external financial and human capital. It is noteworthy that half of the interviewees generate income through participatory activities, and for five of them, this is their sole source of income. However, the difficulties of formalization and professionalization of the groups are compounded by informal labor, which affects 12 interviewees and is historically rooted in the Brazilian popular economy.