Our Story

Background & Justification

Why Project GOLD exists — and why it matters now more than ever.

The Challenge

Youth at the Crossroads

Jamaica's youth — especially those in inner-city communities — face a paradox: they are simultaneously the main victims and perpetrators of crime and violence.

A closer look at young people from our inner-city communities reveals a clear disadvantage: lacking positive role models, guidance and supervision, adequate recreational facilities, and structured community activities that promote team building, social skills and self-development.

It has been well documented that Sport, Music and the Creative Industries are viable and practical tools used to educate people, bring communities together, and heal nations. Project GOLD is built on this truth.

"As an athlete from a community that is often in the news for activities related to crime and violence, my successes came not only from my talents but through structured programs that introduced me to persons who were beside me, refining my talents and pushing me to my GOLD."
Simone Forbes, Founder & Patron

Project GOLD is therefore…

An initiative underpinned by sporting techniques for athletes to shoulder some responsibility to our youths — providing them with hope, inspiration and, most importantly, positive role models.

It is a safe space where sport becomes the language, and life skills become the lesson. Where young people learn to aim high, run their own race, face challenges with courage, and score in every arena of life.

2019
Founded
45+
Youth Trained
4
Champion Patrons
Project Goals

What We Set Out to Achieve

Five clear goals that guide every activity, every session, every community.

Unite, educate and inspire our young people in divided communities through sports, music and other creative art forms.

Support the healthy development of our young people through strengthening and expanding sports programs in low-income communities across the island.

Promote positive social integration and facilitate the development of social skills through team building and sporting activities.

Develop character traits such as discipline, confidence, tolerance, cooperation and respect.

Strengthen the economic and entrepreneurial activities of parents, guardians and protective factors of the participants.

Project Objectives

Measurable Targets

Train at least 45 youth between ages 10 and 16 using the Sports for Development methodology.

Provide family life, parenting skills and entrepreneurship training for at least 15 parents / caregivers.

Use sporting activities to enhance the development and well-being of underserved youth.

Generate a sense of responsibility and ownership for young people's actions and community involvement.

Foster collaboration with individuals, associations and agencies for a sustained presence in targeted communities.

Target Groups

Who We Serve

Young People (Ages 10–17)
From vulnerable communities across Jamaica
Parents & Guardians
Caregivers of participating youth
Coaches & Mentors
Sports coaches and community influencers
Communities

Where We Work

Phase I — Active
Kingston & St. Andrew
  • August Town
Phase II — Planned
Expansion Communities
  • Trench Town
  • Waterhouse
  • St. James
  • St. Catherine
  • Clarendon
On the Ground

Project GOLD In Action

Real sessions, real youth, real change — in the communities of Kingston & St. Andrew.

Youth participating in a Project GOLD group workshop
Young people in Project GOLD purple uniforms studying together
Project GOLD classroom session with hands raised
Project GOLD facilitated session with youth and mentors

Ready to be Part of the Solution?

Whether you donate, volunteer or sponsor — every contribution changes a life.