The FIFA Foundation Community Programme is awarding Israeli nonprofit organization The Equalizer $30,000 in recognition and support of its project using football (soccer) to promote positive values and strengthen society.
The Equalizer was the only Israeli NGO chosen by the FIFA Foundation this year among several worldwide organizations combining soccer and education.
The Equalizer creates social, gender and geographical equality through programs combining team sports with educational activities.
It impacts approximately 9,000 children and youth, operating more than 450 teams in schools and community centers across Israel, from the Golan Heights in the north to Eilat in the south.
“It’s always a great feeling to get recognition for the wonderful work that’s being done mainly by our coaches and tutors, especially when it comes from such a large global organization as FIFA,” says Equalizer founder and CEO Liran Gerassi.
The flagship Equalizer program for kids in low-income areas includes soccer games, academic assistance, value-based activities and empowerment content.
The Boatot program for girls combines soccer and female empowerment activities. The Special Goals program offers teams for youth with special needs such as autism, combining sports sessions with emotional processing activities.
In addition to those three programs centering on soccer, The Equalizer also runs The 48ers, a basketball-based leadership development project for teens from diverse backgrounds; and Safe Swimmers swimming lessons for children from the social periphery.
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