In Peru there is a high number of children and youth growing up under tough circumstances. Unmet physical, psychological or social basic needs are the main reasons why their life often ends up in struggles with crime like drugs or gangs. We have been working for 10 years using sports to bring social changes into slums. We are creating a "safety zone" which allows the children and youth making individual friendships, developing healthy habits, taking their space for exercising & find role models.
The Project is located in the barrio ALTO Peru, where it also got its name from. Its in an urban area, in the slopes of a hill with an amount of potential for activities. This community is considered a slum, it has high rates of violence and crime, and a lack of public spaces. Growing up in this context can be really challenging. Children are exposed to violence at home and in the neighborhood; they don't have appropriate public or private spaces for studying or any recreational activities.
We have been working for 10 years using sports as a tool for social change. As a result, we have founded a program of sport for development validated by Unesco and considered a best practice by them. We have over 15 national champions, one world champion and many motivated athletes. However, we need to have a secure space for training, not only for comfort, but because it favors our methodology and provides a better environment, where we can also have workshops and other recreational activities.
The project will serve over 200 children every year increasing their opportunities and creating a positive cycle. Within two years of training they could become role models, instructors or professionals in their sports. Apart from the sporting benefits we will use the space a safe environment for children where they can meet each other, play games and do whatever let them enjoy their childhood without worrying about the struggles surrounding them every day.
