The birth rate in Belize is twice the rate of that in the U.S. 43% of the population is under the age of 18. The ratio of young people to older people creates a gap for positive adult role models.
Despite a history of hardship, the people of Belize are willing and optimistic. Youth are excited about soccer, and adults want a better life for their children and community. We have formed strong relationships with local leaders that facilitate change.
With a population of 300,000 people, a significant impact can be made by our programs. The median age is 20 years old (compared to 37 in the U.S.). People between 0-14 years old is 38% of the population (compared to 20% in the U.S.).
In Belize, church and state is not separated. Therefore, the schools we work with can make spiritual growth a component to their Sports Servants program. In total, there are over 300 primary schools in Belize in 287 communities.
The Belizean government has established soccer fields in every village but lack a cohesive national program. These existing facilities provide a blank canvas for Sports Servants to bring better training and organization to the villages of Belize.