Dignity
Every person is welcomed with respect, regardless of resources, origin or religion.
About
An association committed to solidarity and transmission
History, values, governance and legal information — get to know us better.
Our story
WAS was born of the conviction that a caring society is built where generations meet, where newcomers are welcomed, and where know-how is passed on free of charge. In Le Petit-Quevilly, in Normandy, we started by accompanying a few families and a few isolated elders. Step by step, we expanded our work to social aid, community support and popular education.
The idea of a free sewing and fashion school grew out of a simple observation: sewing is a craft that creates connection, restores self-confidence, and opens up perspectives — for employment, leisure, or simply for joy. Today, the school has become an intergenerational and intercultural space open to everyone.
WAS is non-political, non-denominational (while still supporting the Jewish community in France as we support every other group), and resolutely focused on practical action. Our team is entirely volunteer-based and our accounts are published every year.
Mission & values
Our mission is to accompany people whom society sometimes leaves aside, and to transmit, free of charge, the knowledge that can change a life — first and foremost, sewing and fashion.
Listening
We take time to hear the real needs before proposing a response.
Transmission
Knowledge is only worth sharing: sewing, language, paperwork, cultural references.
Transparency
Annual accounts published, volunteer governance, public indicators.
Legal status & governance
WAS is an association governed by the French law of 1 July 1901. It is registered with the National Register of Associations under RNA number W763018630, and identified by the INSEE under SIREN 885 046 664 and SIRET 885 046 664 00011 (head office). Its EU VAT number is FR35 885 046 664.
The association is run by a Board of Directors and an Executive Bureau, all volunteers. A General Assembly is held every year. Bylaws, internal regulations and the annual report are available on simple request to contact@was-association.org.
Registered office
WAS66 Rue Maurice Mailleau
76140 Le Petit-Quevilly
Normandie, France
Legal form: Association déclarée (loi 1901)
RNA number: W763018630
SIREN: 885 046 664
SIRET (head office): 885 046 664 00011
EU VAT: FR35 885 046 664
Area of activity: Rouen Metropolis and Normandy — coordinated from Le Petit-Quevilly
A 100% volunteer team
Board members, field volunteers, sewing instructors and language teachers: WAS’s strength is dozens of people who show up every week.
Sarah K.
President & founder — social action coordination.
David L.
Treasurer — partnerships & community outreach.
Aïcha B.
General secretary — sewing-school coordination.
Frequently asked questions
Is WAS recognised as a non-profit of general interest?
WAS is a non-profit (loi 1901) registered with the RNA under W763018630, with SIREN 885 046 664 and SIRET 885 046 664 00011. For any question about a donation receipt, contact us at contact@was-association.org.
Do I need to belong to a specific religion to be supported?
No. WAS supports anyone in need, with no condition of origin, religion or income. We support the Jewish community in France as well as newcomers, families in difficulty and isolated elders, regardless of their faith.
How are donations used?
Donations are entirely allocated to our missions: social support, events for elders, sewing school, support for newcomers. No salary is paid: the team is 100% volunteer.