Beyond Sport

9th Ward Field of Dreams

Award Entered:
Sport For Social Inclusion Award
Parent Organisation:
GW Carver High School
Project Host Nation:
United States
Overview of Project:
The lower socio-economic areas of New Orleans have long been blocked from full-participation in the city’s athletic programs and access to quality public facilities. The 9th Ward Field of Dreams (9wfod) is an organization that works to combat the alarmingly high crime and high school drop out rates in these lower income areas by providing sport intervention. 9wfod is building the first public space of its kind in the city of New Orleans. The 9th Ward Field of Dreams will provide a free space for youth organizations and other programs throughout the city to use, free-of-charge alleviating. The facility’s availability will alleviate current budget restrictions which all too often stymie numerous non-profits and government entities from truly serving our children – especially those who are unable to pay their own way. By exposing our students to qualified coaches, many of whom share a similar background from that of our students, this shared space is already transforming lives and a community. Students from more affluent backgrounds have endless opportunities to participate in athletics both at school and in recreation leagues. Participation in sports builds character, teamwork skills and self-discipline. These attributes serve students on the field and in the classroom and provide opportunities to achieve success in one’s career. We work to make these opportunities available to students no matter what their socio-economic background may be.