On May 26, the world of football will come together for the inaugural World Football Giving Day, a collective effort to make a positive impact. This initiative has garnered support from over 100 organizations worldwide, including prominent figures such as Jurgen Klopp, Juan Mata, and Vivianne Miedema, as well as partners like adidas and Right to Dream.
The idea behind this movement is to bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and encouraging donations, especially at a time when global division is on the rise. World Football Giving Day is powered by Common Goal, a movement launched by Mata in 2017, where football personalities pledge to donate 1% of their salaries, resulting in millions being raised for projects globally. Common Goal's CEO, Mary Connor, aims to involve everyone in this initiative, emphasizing that football has the power to shape the world for positive outcomes, particularly for young people and communities. Connor believes that the love of football can unite billions of people, providing a moment for collective action and a chance to make a difference.
The story of Connor's experience in Vietnam, where a simple act of buying a football and playing with locals brought an entire town together, illustrates the power of football to challenge assumptions and foster connections. Similarly, in Nicaragua, organizing girls' football has led to positive changes, such as increased ownership of their bodies and a shift in how boys perceive girls. With thousands of organizations using football to address various issues, including HIV/AIDS prevention, mental health, and climate action, World Football Giving Day aims to become an annual event, mobilizing resources and unifying people across the globe. To get involved, visit the World Football Giving Day website to donate to one of the 100+ registered non-profits or find your own way to give back locally or globally.