Structuring Random Thoughts

I was recently introduced to a great bunch of guys who are using soccer as a tool to drive home AIDS awareness and prevention programs in Africa and the Caribbean. Grassroots Soccer’s programs use footballers as role models, and leverage the popularity of soccer in order to engage hard to reach young people.

There curriculum is based on the Social Learning Theory and combines three powerful principles of education:

Kids learn best from people they respect. Role models have a unique power to influence young minds. Young people listen to and emulate their heroes. Grassroot Soccer uses professional players and other role models as HIV educators and spokespeople.

Learning is not a spectator sport. Adolescents retain knowledge best when they are active participants in the learning process, teaching others what they themselves have learned. Grassroot Soccer graduates are trained to become peer educators and advocates in their communities.

It takes a village. Role models can change what young people think about, but lifelong learning requires lifelong community support. Grassroot Soccer fosters community involvement through youth outreach, long-term partnerships and special events like graduation ceremonies for graduates.

With the World Cup coming up in South Africa next year, Grassroots Soccer is looking to raise the awareness of their activities so check out there website and see how you can help.