Grassroot Soccer-Zambia is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) in Lusaka, Zambia that educates youth about positive choices while using the power of sport. The messages learned in soccer can translate over to other areas of the children’s lives. Using the power of soccer to make a change they can reduce HIV dramatically in the community. HIV is 100% preventable, and Grassroot Soccer teaches the youth how.
In just one year they could graduate 10,966 youths and test 6,817. They reached over 12,650 participants directly through the program.
The organization aims to reach youth ages 13-15. They run after school soccer ‘skillz clinics’ in twelve sessions. They provide support and encouragement, while discussing healthy choices and positive behaviors. They host a community day and provide free testing during a tournament for members of the community and the youth.
Their mission supports:
- Avoiding Drugs & Alcohol
- Keeping Girls in School
- Engaging In Physical Fitness
- Mental Health
- Employability
- Financial Literacy
The leaders go through a two-year development program to prepare for this role. They are making education and testing fun while fostering an atmosphere to learn about HIV positive choices. This reduces the stigma around the disease and opens lines of communication. They empower the youth to discuss their personal struggles or ask questions within this environment. The organization has seen massive results from this model.
GRS Zambia’s partnerships with Young Women Christian Association (YWCA), Zambart, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) and various government line Ministries to deliver high-quality adolescent health interventions.
This year, Bike Zambia will try to raise $5,000 for this group to host a soccer tournament in Livingstone at the end the trip.
If you want to support the GRS mission here is a breakdown of service cost:
$8 = 1 adolescent to attend an after-school program and become empowered with sexual reproductive health and rights knowledge
$15 = 1 adolescent to be HIV tested, and if found positive, to be linked to services
$33 = 1 HIV+ adolescent to receive ongoing treatment and services, acquiring access to treatment and learning life skills, which help them, remain in and adhere to a treatment plan
If you feel compelled to give, Donate Here
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