Beyond Sport Launches Sport Together Fund to Aid Communities Affected by Crisis
Beyond Sport has launched the Sport Together Fund, an initiative designed to support sport-based development organizations providing vital aid to communities facing conflict, harm, and insecurity worldwide. The fund was officially unveiled at the Sport Industry Awards in May 2022, recognizing the unique role sport plays in uniting people and creating safe spaces during times of crisis.
Addressing Global Displacement
The launch of the Sport Together Fund comes as the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports a staggering 84 million forcibly displaced people globally as of May 2022. This includes 26.6 million refugees, 4.4 million asylum seekers, and 48 million internally displaced individuals – representing one in every 95 people on Earth who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict or persecution.
The Power of Sport in Humanitarian Crises
Beyond Sport recognizes sport’s consistent ability to unite, uplift, and provide refuge during challenging times. The Sport Together Fund is a direct response to this power, aiming to support both immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery initiatives. The fund will provide cash grants to sports clubs, non-profit and charitable organizations, and collectives operating in humanitarian and protracted crisis settings, as well as those supporting transit and host communities.
Initial Focus: Ukraine
At the launch event, Beyond Sport Founder and President Nick Keller announced Ukraine as the fund’s initial focus area. This decision reflects the urgent need for support following the Russian invasion, which has displaced 5.7 million people and created a further 7.5 million internally displaced individuals within the country.
Fund Principles and Collaboration
The Sport Together Fund was co-designed with an Expert Advisory Group, comprising activists, practitioners, athletes, researchers, and individuals with lived refugee experiences. It is guided by targeted principles and receives strategic support from the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency [1].
Beyond Sport’s Long-Term Commitment
For over 17 years, Beyond Sport has supported hundreds of initiatives across more than 80 countries, combining funding with long-term capacity-building to help organizations scale their impact. The Sport Together Fund builds upon this legacy, leveraging the sport industry’s convening power and reach to deliver meaningful outcomes beyond the field of play.
How to Contribute
Leaders across the sport sector are invited to contribute unforgettable experiences – such as access and hospitality – to fuel Beyond Sport’s work. Donations will be recognized and celebrated at the Sport Industry Awards. Those interested in donating an experience or learning more can contact the Beyond Sport development team at [email protected].