Strive identified Ambedkar Basti in Delhi’s RK Puram to start their first project. Initially parents could not understand why sending kids to the nearby park to play football made any sense. Once we got 10 kids registered we started training and it was only a matter of time when other parents saw the benefit in our “Play and Learn” method. Today we have 60 children.

During our training session we impart football skills which will help these kids gain confidence through sports. They get the opportunity to get selected to play at school, local competitions, the Slum Soccer National Inclusion cup and also the chance to be selected for the Homeless World Cup. This increases their confidence and gives them a sense of belonging. Further the training session include learnings on hygiene, education and gender equality etc.

In addition to soccer training, the Strive community included one year Dance training. The aim is similar to the soccer initiative of inclusion and sense of belonging and in line with the Fit India Movement. This initiative also provides them a chance to perform on stage at the“Dance out of Poverty” events.