Don Paolo and “A Football Field in the Courtyard” Project

Don Paolo is a priest who works in Baranzate, in the northern suburbs of Milan. Baranzate is one of the most multi-ethnic, low-income communities in Italy. In 2007, Don Paolo decided to start three social projects to foster the integration of immigrants in the community. Despite his high aims, the financial sustainability of these projects became a big concern, as both donations and public funding were decreasing. One day he heard about the Magnoni Foundation and their Football Field in the Courtyard project. The Magnoni Foundation would support the refurbishment of a futsal field (20% grant and 80% debt) if the parish could expand its impact and make the field financially sustainable. This case presents the decision that Don Paolo must make regarding the Magnoni Foundation’s proposal for the financing of his social enterprise