The A-League helps children with disabilities in Gulu and Kampala by providing sporting opportunities. The aim of the project is to create an inclusive, supportive community for these often marginalized and stigmatized children. Many of these children include landmine survivors, those displaced by the recent civil conflicts, and those abandonded by their families. Through sport these children create friendships, realize their potential, build self-esteem, and develop crucial life skills.
Children with disabilities in developing countries are often stigmatized and socially marginalized due to a lack of understanding and the perpetuation of myths surrounding disabilities within the general population. Due to the lack of social programs, limited physical accessibility and numerous other barriers these children have little prospect for basic education and/or employment, an increased chance of experiencing violence and abuse, and an increased risk of HIV/AIDS and other health risks.
This project will impact over 400 children with disabilities in Uganda who will be participating in adapted sport through our A-League. Sport and positive role models has been a proven tool for aiding in the healthy development of children with disabilities. Through participation in sport children develop self-confidence, friends, and a positive body image. Sport also creates awareness within the greater community by showcasing children's abilities rather than disabilities.
Sport provides children with a greater sense of self-worth, ability and a sense of community and belonging thus providing them with a greater outlook on life. The general population will have a better understanding of persons with disabilities which will provide greater opportunities in education and employment. Through physical activity, education, and awareness of health issues the participants will have a greater chance of avoiding secondary health concerns (i.e. bed sores, diabetes).
This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).
