Health and Education Soccer Program
This project's parent organization is Urban Initiatives
It operates in United States
It uses Football (Soccer)
Entered the Sport For Social Inclusion Award
More about Health and Education Soccer Program
Children growing up in Chicago’s low income communities suffer from a lack of opportunities in part due to social isolation and an inability to see beyond the choices in their immediate neighborhoods. In the communities we serve, youth rarely travel outside of their neighborhoods; thus, homogeneous populations often define student experiences.
UI’s program aims to enhance social inclusion across Chicago. Specifically, we expose children to new people, places, and ideas while also providing additional opportunities for them to reach their full potential and break down barriers. UI participants travel to play soccer with other teams in 12 Chicago communities, crossing gang, cultural and racial boundaries to come together through a common love of sport. Furthermore, participants play in Crosstown tournaments with travel soccer clubs in affluent suburbs. At the Crosstowns, students with very diverse backgrounds are organized into soccer teams and play together. Soccer is the common ground that highlights similarities and creates friendships between students who otherwise would not socialize.
Our non-competitive, fun based atmosphere creates bonds between youth that fosters respect and understanding.