Sports are an important part of developing the self-confidence and self-esteem of the children we work with. Being involved in sports outside regular school time and in weekends also helps keep children safe and engaged with their education and away from risks of exploitation, substance abuse or trafficking. Our sports programs include football, futsal, and running.
Starting from a single dirt field at the project’s main site in Sangkhlaburi, today, the football teams comprise three boys’ teams and three girls’ teams. Over a hundred children are directly involved in playing football, plus many more who participate through supporting the teams. The players and supporters take pride in being part of the football program and it is a valuable asset to their self-confidence and self-esteem. Children of the Forest’s football teams have grown to have a significant profile. In particular, the ‘Children of the Forest United’ football team has a strong reputation with many successes locally and across Kanchanaburi province.
Since 2013, Children of the Forest has organised an annual running race in Sangkhlaburi each year. The ‘run for children’s rights’ has 5 kilometre and 1o kilometre events. It raises awareness about children’s rights and the role of Children of the Forest in the community.
