Inclusive Football For Children

Make football possible for everyone

Imagine a football pitch where every child, regardless of their abilities, can lace up their boots, feel the thrill of the game, and experience the joy of belonging. That's the vision behind Inclusive Football for Children, a project we want to bring to life in Ukraine

How did we get here?

Launched in 2020 on the initiative of Ukrainian footballer Oleksandr Zinchenko, our project provides the opportunity for children with disabilities to immerse themselves in the wonderful world of football.

Ukrainian statistics tell a stark story: only 0.5% of children with disabilities participate in sports. We're breaking down these barriers, brick by brick. Since 2020, we've welcomed over 400 children, involved over 100 volunteers, and earned the support of organisations like the Ukrainian Association of Football, the Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex, PUMA, UNO, ToyDiCo Ukraine, Vitmark Ukraine, Midgard School, Ukrainian Red Cross and many others.

The invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 put a stop to our ongoing progress. However, the resilience of our children and the dedication of our team paved the way for the project's resumption, leading to the launch of Season 3 in October 2022.

“All people regardless of their mental, psychological or physical characteristics — should have the equal opportunities and such sport as football in particular, has a unique unifying power and can serve as one of the tools for developing an inclusive society. When I see kid's emotions on the photos from the trainings, I understand that we are doing everything right. Our goal is to help every child with disabilities realise their dreams. Football is for everyone!”

— Oleksandr Zinchenko

The pressing needs arising from the war have led to a reduction in overall spending on creating educational opportunities for children with disabilities.

With your help, we can ensure that their passion for football continues to shine even amidst the dark times.

Here's how your support can make a difference.

Building an Inclusive Environment

Together we can create a barrier-free environment where every child can play, laugh, and learn alongside their peers.
Development of Sports Skills

Together we can provide opportunities for children to develop their football skills and overall physical abilities through professional coaching.
Social Integration

Football is more than just a game; it fosters friendships, understanding, cooperation and acceptance, breaking down walls and building a community where every child feels valued and included.
Development of Inclusive Sport

Your involvement raises awareness about the importance of an inclusive approach in sports; together we are setting a standard, inspiring other sports initiatives to embrace diversity and create opportunities for all.

It all started with a dream.

And those who embrace the transformative power of inclusion.

Timothy

Regularly participating in ball activities has not only enhanced my child's patience and endurance but has also cultivated skills such as active listening, respect for elders, and effective teamwork.
Iryna, Timothy’s mother

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Fedir

After these lessons, the children became more courageous, confident, concentrated and obedient.
Anna, Fedir’s mother

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Nazar

Thanks to the project and the skills we learned there, he plays football with his peers.
Nataliia, Nazar’s mother

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Sokil

We would like Maxim to be able to take part in the project again when we return home, because this project is very important for our children and makes a big change.
Olena, Sokil’s mother

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Danylo

Through football exercises and games, the child developed motor skills, coordination and interaction with others. Training helped to improve attention and self-control, as well as teamwork skills.
Tetiana, Danylo’s mother

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