The Bulgarian Sports Federation for Children and Youth at Risk announces the launch of its new project WELCOMING CLUBS – an initiative that aims to promote the social inclusion and mental well-being of children and young people with a migrant background through accessible sports programs at the local level.
The project will be implemented over a period of 16 months and will cover six Bulgarian cities – Sofia, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Stara Zagora, Montana, and Rakito. Inclusive sports training sessions and cultural events will be organized in these cities, bringing together children and young people from migrant and local communities.
Through the creation of a 6-month training program in street sports (3×3 basketball, street football, running, badminton, etc.), the project aims to reach over 1,200 participants – children, young people, and their families. The program will be based on the principles of equal access, mutual respect, and an inclusive sports environment, encouraging dialogue and intercultural exchange among participants.
“Our goal is to show that sport can be a language without borders – a means of uniting, supporting and developing individuals,” says Anatoli Iliev, head of the WELCOMING CLUBS project.
The project will include:
- Open days and orientation meetings in the six regions;
- A training workshop for coaches and coordinators;
- 36 storytelling sessions, cultural events, and sports training sessions to promote intercultural exchange;
- A final national sports event, “Welcome to the Game,” in Albena, which will bring together over 240 participants in a three-day sports and cultural program.
The project is implemented with the financial support of the European Union and is part of efforts to promote social cohesion, equal opportunities, and the integration of vulnerable groups through sport.
