On May 26, the world of football will unite for a common purpose with the launch of World Football Giving Day. This groundbreaking initiative has garnered support from over 100 organizations and prominent figures in the sport, including Jurgen Klopp, Juan Mata, and Vivianne Miedema, as well as partners like adidas and Right to Dream.
The idea is to create a shared moment where people can come together, participate, and donate to various causes, bridging the gap of growing global division. World Football Giving Day is powered by Common Goal, an initiative launched by Mata in 2017, where football figures pledge to donate 1% of their salaries, resulting in millions raised for projects worldwide. According to Mary Connor, CEO of Common Goal, 'Football can mirror the world or it can choose to shape it. At Common Goal, we choose the latter, using the sport to shape positive outcomes, especially for young people and communities.' Connor emphasizes that everyone, not just athletes, should take action, as the world faces significant challenges, including reduced aid and unstable funding for non-profits.
'We're not helpless; we can take action through our love for football, which unites us,' she stresses. The story of Connor's experience in Vietnam, where a simple game of football brought an entire town together, exemplifies the power of the sport to challenge assumptions and foster connections. In Nicaragua, for instance, organizing girls' football has led to positive changes, such as reduced teen pregnancy rates and increased ownership of their bodies among girls. The initiative aims to become an annual event, building on the UN World Football Day, and intends to grow year by year, mobilizing resources where they are most needed and promoting unity.
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.