Coaches Across Continents is a UK and US based NGO aimed at improving the quality of life in low-income countries through soccer for social development.
Contents
History
Coaches Across Continents was launched in June 2008 based on first-hand research in 60 countries.[1] In its first year, the organization implemented programs at a site in Tanzania. In 2009, it expanded its program to sites in Malawi and Zambia. Since then it has expanded to work in 37 total countries and 5 continents.
2015 Numbers
29 Participating Countries 89 Implementing Partner Programs 3,842 Certified Community Coaches 388,576 Children Directly Impacted [2]
Overview
In an effort to achieve sustainability, Coaches Across Continents helps local coaches & teachers educate children in prevalent issues such as Gender Equality, Health and Wellness including HIV/AIDS, Conflict Prevention, Child Rights, and Life Skills. It uses soccer as a tool to spark the interest and imagination of the children, as well as provide an added incentive to attend school. More specifically, the organization designs games that enhance students’ understanding of pressing social and health issues. The group employs experienced and trained soccer educators to implement its custom-designed games all over the world. Its aim is not to develop future professional players, but to use the game as a tool for education, social responsibility, and community development.
As of its inception in 2008, the organization has worked in 37 countries, certifying 13,685 Community Coaches and directly impacting 1,157,548 children.
Mission
“By developing their capacity to make meaningful and relevant life choices, Coaches across Continents uses football to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged children in developing countries. Coaches across Continents, works with teachers and leaders from within communities, to create locally owned and sustainable partnerships that produce long-term positive change.”[3]
Awards
2015 Accepted into the Clinton Global Initiative
2015 Beyond Sports Award: Safeguarding Children in Sport - Shortlist
2014 Beyond Sport Awards: Corporate of the Year with Chevrolet
2011 Peace and Sport Finalist Recognizing its innovative partnership working with former Child Soldiers in Uganda, Coaches Across Continents was selected as one of finalists for the “NGO for Peace of The Year” at the 2011 Peace and Sport Awards.<http://coachesacrosscontinents.org/about/#our-awards>
2010 Featured Finalist Global Sports Forum Football for Education in Barcelona.[4]
2009, the project won the Best New Project for Sport and Development at the inaugural Beyond Sport Awards in London. [5]
Finalist for the 2009 SCORE4africa Football for Diversity Award [6]