Sports for Development

FIFA 11 for Health is a school-based health education program using football to deliver 11 key health messages to children aged 10-12. Piloted in Malawi and scaled across African countries, the curriculum covers disease prevention (HIV, malaria, TB), non-communicable diseases, hygiene, nutrition, and physical activity. Studies show improved knowledge of both communicable and NCDs, increased physical activity levels. Local coaches trained in health protocols deliver sessions combining football skills with health education.

Grassroot Soccer (GRS) is an adolescent health organization founded in 2002 that uses soccer to deliver HIV prevention, care, and treatment programs. Operating in South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and 60+ countries, the SKILLZ curriculum uses soccer games and metaphors to educate youth about HIV risks. Participants are 2x more likely to get tested, leading to 3x reduction in new infections. 98% of HIV-positive participants linked to treatment achieve viral suppression. The program has reached over 18 million adolescents globally.

Right To Play is a global organization using play-based learning for education, health, and child protection. Operating in 15 countries including Uganda, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mali, and Senegal, the program reaches millions of children annually. In 2023 alone, Ghana programs reached 3+ million children and youth, 80,000 teachers, and 10,000 parents. Focus areas include quality education access, girls empowerment, sexual and reproductive health, psychosocial support, and emotional well-being for children in fragile contexts.

Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA is a grant-making organization supporting sport-based programs for social change. Since 2012, the foundation has invested USD 30 million and impacted over 1 million youth. Focus areas include health, education, women and girls empowerment, employability, inclusive society, and peace. Funded programs like L.E.A.D. Center (baseball/tennis for Black youth) achieve 100% high school graduation and 93% college enrollment rates.

Magic Bus India Foundation (est. 1999) uses Sports for Development (S4D) to guide youth from poverty to sustainable livelihoods. Operating in 24 states and 75 districts, the program has impacted 1+ million young people. Sports activities teach life skills including self-esteem, leadership, health/hygiene, and mutual respect. 7 out of 10 school dropouts return to education; 40% of participants are girls. The Youth for Change Fellowship develops young community leaders aged 18-30.