Atlas is committed to offering long-term, practical support for children growing-up in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. We understand solutions to the challenges these children face cannot be designed thousands of miles away, which is why we partner with community organisations, rugby clubs and local charities to deliver targeted support to those who need it the most.
We use our global network of rugby champions to identify communities where there is both a need for the local partners and us to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives.
Argentina, Virreyes Rugby Club
The Argentina All Schools programme is working with 6 clubs and 20 schools in the suburbs surrounding Buenos Aires where there are a number of shanty towns, issues of poor education and health, and high crime and unemployment rates.
Cambodia, Kampuchea Balopp
Kampuchea Balopp gives disabled and disadvantaged children in Cambodia access to sport to aid social inclusion and education.
England, star* scheme
Star* Scheme is a charity dedicated to transforming the lives of young individuals who have, or are currently, facing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Leveraging the power of rugby, star* provides a safe and nurturing environment for young people to heal and thrive. Through evidence-based practices and grounded theory, we tailor our interventions to each child through personal development plans to address emotional, psychological, and social challenges.
England, Tackle London
We are committed to tackling inequality of opportunity, and countering adversity, by enabling and developing positive, supportive relationships uniting school, club and community.
Eswatini, SKRUM
Using rugby as a vehicle for engagement, we create safe and fun environments to educate children on HIV/AIDS and its cultural causes in Eswatini, the worst affected country in the world. It tackles gender and healthcare inequalities and taboos to empower the children and create a healthier future.
India, Khelo Rugby
The Atlas Foundation supports The Jungle Crows with the Khelo Rugby project in 35 locations in Kolkata and North Bengal, benefiting 3000 children every month.
Israel, Israel Rugby
Rugby in Israel is not a well know sport, but the focus of this project on peace and reconciliation has made it noteworthy beyond the pitch. The values of rugby, with fierce opposition on the pitch, but strong fellowship off the pitch, is an important tool to break down traditional mistrust between different religious and racial groups in the country.
Kenya, KRDA
Kibera is the largest urban slum in Africa. With no running water, little electricity and open sewers running throughout the community, Kibera can be a tough place to grow up. The risk of being attacked by the many gangs who control the area, the lack of any meaningful employment and the poor educational opportunities make it tougher still.
Malawi, Bhubesi Pride Foundation
Malawi suffers from high rates of extreme poverty and food insecurity, as well as high rates of child marriages and HIV infections. This causes many children to have little hope for their future. Bhubesi Pride Foundation are changing this, through their sports and education community centre, they are inspiring children to focus on their education, and are tackling the issues around gender equality and health that affect many children.
South Africa, Atlas DigiBus
The innovative project is transforming education for children in Langa, Cape Town. The Atlas Digibus is equipped with laptops and technology, helping the children transition between mother tongue and english.
South Africa, Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institute
Atlas partners with Gauteng Womens Rugby Institute (GWRI) to provide safe accommodation, food and hygiene products for young female rugby players who need it most. Women here are given the chance to study and train, developing opportunities to reach their potential and prepare for a career.
South Africa, Ocean View and Masiphumelele High School
Run as part of The Atlas South Africa region, the Ocean View and Masiphumelele High School programmes are using rugby and mentoring sessions to help the children tackle the drug and alcohol problems plaguing their communities.
USA, Memphis Inner City Rugby
The Memphis Inner City Rugby project works in one of the most deprived neighbourhoods in the US, turning out some great kids, keeping them from gangs, drugs and early pregnancies, and giving them an academic and athletic future.