'Stride the Stadia Walk to Victory Challenge 2021'

Sport Changes Life are delighted to launch the 'Stride the Stadia Walk To Victory Challenge 2021', thanks to the support of two local Belfast men, Chris Kirk and Gareth Brown. They are two fascinating people, who annually like to take on a new and demanding challenge in support of local charities who help people that need their services the most. As a foundation we are thrilled they have chosen us as a charity to continue to support the work we do. By undertaking such a gruelling challenge, walking 210 miles taking in every Irish premier league ground is an incredible gesture that will require mental and physical endurance but we will be with them for support every step of the way. 

Who are Sport Changes Life?

We are a not-for-profit organisation holding charitable status based in Belfast, founded in 2010 by Gareth Maguire, Mark Marais and Professor Deirdre Brennan; three individuals with a background in sport and education with a shared belief in its power to transform and inspire. Our work is informed by over 20 year’s experience in the education and community sport sectors, particularly with disadvantaged young people. We aim to help where there is significant educational under-achievement, high levels of deprivation and serious youth disorder.

We utilise our highly skilled team of sport mentors and American Victory Scholars, who work with young & old people throughout the communities of Northern Ireland, with the sole aim to raise their aspirations and support them to succeed and thrive. (www.sportchangeslife.com)

 

Why Sport Changes Life?

Chris and Gareth wish to support Sport Changes Life in their work to facilitate positive change in the lives of disadvantaged and disengaged young people through the medium of sport by instilling belief and hope while working towards shaping futures and achieving personal success. Both Chris and Gareth can relate to how sport has played a key role in their lives by teaching and embedding life long values but also the physical and mental benefits to your overall well-being. Sport Changes Life programmes engage young people in sport led interventions but also have educational workshops that focus on helping young people re-connect with education or training, gain employability skills whilst securing employment, offering accredited qualifications, increasing the knowledge around good relations in our communities, enhance personal development through bespoke mentoring and provide a professional support network to those suffering with mental health or other underlying issues. Their programmes include work in primary and secondary schools, disadvantaged communities , interface areas with high tension and conflict whilst supporting local clubs and youth groups.

Link to Sport Changes Life Programmes - https://sportchangeslife.com/programs/