My Strength, My Path campaign connects youth mental health and sport
Eurochild member Croatia for Children Foundation launches a national campaign to connect youth mental health and sports, with a focus on vulnerable groups.
The ''Croatia for Children' Foundation has launched the My Strength, My Path – Empowering Youth Through Sport campaign, which will run from April to November 2025. The initiative promotes mental health awareness among children and young people by encouraging their participation in sports to build confidence, express emotions, and develop social skills in a supportive environment. It also promotes sport as a tool for preventing violence, substance abuse, and social exclusion, especially among vulnerable groups.
Key Campaign Goals:
- Raise awareness about the importance of mental health for children and youth.
- Encourage sport participation to help youth express emotions, build confidence, and foster social skills.
- Use sport as a tool to prevent negative behavior patterns such as violence, addiction, and social exclusion.
- Develop mental health and sports programs, including workshops and mental training.
- Involve local communities in organizing events that promote both sport and mental well-being.
The campaign emphasises helping children without adequate parental care and those with behavioural challenges in educational and residential centres. These children often lack a safe environment and access to supportive communities. Through this campaign, the Foundation aims to reduce stigma and offer them new opportunities for growth and inclusion.
Prominent Croatian athletes, including Olympic medalists and well-known sports figures, have joined the campaign as ambassadors, inspiring youth to engage in physical activity and promoting mental health as a priority.
We urge governments, institutions, and civil society to join efforts in supporting initiatives that protect and empower young people. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
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