Sport for change

For young people, sport, play and exercise are vital for optimal growth and learning, stimulating physical, cognitive, emotional and social development. But the benefits of sport extend far beyond the individual. Through sport, we can lay the groundwork for positive, lasting change on the societal level.

Around the world, Mercy Corps’ Sport for Change programs promote health awareness, accelerate psychological healing in areas affected by natural disasters and conflict, further social inclusion and cohesion, and contribute to economic development through a variety of sport-based activities. Our programs take advantage of sport’s popularity and convening power to mobilize young people and their communities, communicate key messages, bring diverse groups together and teach valuable life skills in a way that is fun and participatory.