Special Olympics Europe Eurasia and Scort Foundation Unite
Special Olympics Europe Eurasia (SOEE) has entered into a groundbreaking partnership with the Scort Foundation to provide educational opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities through football development programs across the region. The collaboration aims to use football as a powerful tool for promoting social integration, personal growth, and community engagement.
The partnership will leverage the expertise and networks of both organizations, creating sustainable pathways for participants to gain valuable skills and build confidence. By using sport as a medium, this initiative hopes to reshape perceptions, promote inclusivity, and foster an equitable society.
Football as a Tool for Empowerment
The Scort Foundation, alongside its Football Club Social Alliance (FCSA) program, implements educational projects to empower young people in vulnerable situations. With the universal appeal of football, Scort is creating meaningful opportunities for communities impacted by displacement, crises, or disabilities.
Through football development programs, young people, including those with intellectual disabilities, can thrive and make positive contributions to their communities.
A Regional Focus on Inclusion
SOEE President and Managing Director David Evangelista expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying,
“Through this partnership with Scort Foundation, we seek not only to transform lives through sport, but also reshape perceptions and foster a more inclusive, more equitable society.”
The collaboration will serve Special Olympics’ mission across 58 countries in Europe and Central Asia, promoting respect, inclusion, and human dignity. From Iceland to Israel, and Portugal to Kazakhstan, the region benefits from the program’s broad reach and cultural diversity.
Impact on Vulnerable Communities
Scort Foundation Co-CEO Julia Lambrecht highlighted the significance of this partnership, adding,
“Our collaboration with Special Olympics Europe Eurasia underscores our dedication to promoting social integration and empowering vulnerable communities.”
The foundation is committed to using football as a universal language to foster equality and a sense of belonging.
Benefits of the Partnership:
- Football-based educational programs for people with intellectual disabilities
- Social integration opportunities for vulnerable communities
- Personal growth and confidence-building through sport
- Promotion of inclusivity and equity across Europe and Central Asia
The partnership between Special Olympics Europe Eurasia and the Scort Foundation represents a significant step forward in fostering disability inclusion through football. By creating opportunities for education, empowerment, and personal growth, this initiative will positively impact the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities while strengthening communities across the region.