Bid for the 2011 Homeless World Cup
Posted on 31/07/2008
The opportunity to bid to host the 2011 Homeless World Cup is now open. Hosting the Homeless World Cup is an opportunity to make a unique contribution and participate in pioneering social innovation creating a positive, global impact. Tens of thousands of people around the world have already felt the benefit of the Homeless World Cup and it is growing fast.
The Homeless World Cup serves as a catalyst to involve people who are currently homeless and excluded in changing their own lives; and to change attitudes of governments, media, public, key influencers to create a paradigm shift in the way the world approaches solutions to homelessness.
The Homeless World Cup annual, international football tournament is the pinnacle of our year round work; the flagship event. It is run at the highest level of professionalism and integrity whilst continually striving to improve the global impact and reach. It is an opportunity for players to represent their country, stand proud and change their lives. It is an opportunity to trigger new grass roots football projects around the world, reaching players who are homeless and excluded in every corner of the globe. It is an opportunity to light up the hearts and minds of everyone it touches and change attitudes.
The Homeless World Cup has achieved rapid, global growth since the first tournament in Graz 2003, which united 18 nations. At the 6th Homeless World Cup in Melbourne 1-7 December 2008, 56 nations will be united; the first Women’s Homeless World Cup will take place; and a legacy of 30 street soccer programmes will be rolled out across Australia by host, The Big Issue. It has already triggered football programmes in over 60 nations involving 30,000 players who are homeless and excluded.
Research consistently demonstrates 77% of players experience a significant life change. Players build their self esteem; come off drugs and alcohol; move into homes, jobs, education, training; repair relationships; become coaches and players with pro or semi-pro football teams.
Established by world-leading social entrepreneur Mel Young, it has garnered the support of UEFA, Nike, UN, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Ambassador Eric Cantona, international footballers Didier Drogba and Rio Ferdinand and actor Colin Farrell.
If you are interested in hosting the 2011 Homeless World Cup download the Bid Application here.
