In 1983, Sister Elvira received permission from her superiors to leave the order and dedicate herself entirely to young people struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. On July 16, 1983, she opened the first house in Saluzzo, about 60 km south of Turin, under very simple conditions. This marked the beginning of the Cenacolo community. Sister Elvira was convinced that only God could truly heal those addicted to drugs, and she always trusted in His providence. Today, there are more than sixty houses of the community worldwide, where young people tackle their recovery from addiction and work towards a normal life. The success rate is exceptionally high. On October 16, 2009, the Cenacolo community was recognized as a "Spiritual Community" by Pope Benedict XVI.