The region where the institution is located is known as the “Region of Floodplain,” an environmental preservation area that connects mountains, rivers, and the sea. The area is also referred to as the “Sertão Carioca” and features many rural characteristics and agricultural productions. The territory has a long history of occupation and is composed of quilombola communities, settlements of small farmers, and residences with productive gardens. Families have migrated from more urbanized regions of the city in search of a more natural lifestyle (the area is approximately 60 km away from the city center).

Cultural practices closely linked to rural life, agriculture, and the land, as well as popular cultures of the region, religiosity, and agroecology, are intimately connected to the daily lives of residents.

In one of the neighborhoods in this region, you can find Jardim João de Barro, a school inspired by Waldorf Pedagogy, and Casa de Apoio Alegria, an NGO that serves children and young people from public schools during their after-school hours. Through a partnership established in 2021 through the “Ninho” project, the intention is to continue this important social work for the community.