Special Olympics Europe Eurasia has partnered with the Scort Foundation to enhance educational opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities through football. This collaboration aims to promote personal growth, confidence, and community connections. Key leaders from both organizations highlighted their shared goal of fostering inclusivity and social integration through sports across diverse cultures in the region.
Special Olympics Europe Eurasia (SOEE) has formed a partnership with the Scort Foundation aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities through football development programs throughout Europe and Central Asia. This initiative seeks to create sustainable growth pathways that encourage personal development and social integration, providing participants with vital skills, enhanced confidence, and connections within their communities.
David Evangelista, SOEE President and Managing Director, emphasized the transformative potential of sports in their collaboration with Scort Foundation, stating their joint effort will reshape societal perceptions and foster a more inclusive community. He noted, “Together, we have a strong opportunity to expand impact, strengthen local programming worldwide, and build a world where everyone is valued, included.”
Julia Lambrecht, Co-CEO of Scort Foundation, remarked that this partnership highlights their commitment to social integration and empowerment, particularly for vulnerable communities. She stated, “At Scort Foundation, we are leveraging the universal language of football to drive meaningful impact and create a more equitable future for all.”
The Special Olympics movement in Europe Eurasia spans 58 countries, embracing diverse cultures and customs, and promotes respect, inclusion, and dignity for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports. The Scort Foundation envisions a future where sports help young people in vulnerable situations thrive, thereby fostering peaceful communities.
Through its Football Club Social Alliance (FCSA) program, Scort implements educational initiatives that utilize sport and play-based activities to empower disadvantaged youth. Scort’s advocacy work also aims to enhance the role of sports in positively impacting individuals affected by displacement and crises and to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities.
Original Source: www.specialolympics.org
