In Portugal, democratizing access to athletics and a sense of pride in young people in vulnerable communities.
In April 2024, EDP launched the "Runners Club" project with the aim of democratizing access to professional athletics for young people between the ages of 6 and 16 from economically vulnerable communities. This project was developed in partnership with Social Innovation Sports, which is responsible for implementation and coordination on the ground.
In the first year, the project began in two Lisbon neighborhoods, Cova da Moura and Zambujal, in collaboration with local associations:
- Cova da Moura: Alto da Cova da Moura Social Solidarity Association, Moinho da Juventude Cultural Association
- Zambujal: Johnson's Academy, CooperActiva, CAZA
The "Runners Club" project offers young people two physical training sessions a week, led by a qualified coach who supports them in developing essential skills for athletics. It also has a community leader, responsible for gathering young people and families to the activities, and a monitor, both identified with the help of partner associations, which strengthens community spirit and creates employability for the residents of these communities.
In addition to the physical component, the project also promotes social integration, strengthening the sense of community, belonging and pride among the participants. The aim is for these teams to progressively start competing in official events such as EDP New Generation, the race for young people that will precede the EDP Lisbon Marathon in October.
An out-of-neighborhood day is also organized every two months, providing young people with unique experiences outside the usual context. In the first few months of the project, special training sessions were held in Monsanto Park and the José Alvalade Stadium sports hall..
The "Runners Club" is more than a sports initiative; it is an engine of social transformation, providing young people from the communities involved with new opportunities and experiences, while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
