Grassroot Soccer

Research & advocacy: Grassroot Soccer aspires to be the go-to partner in adolescent health through its dedication to research, learning, advocacy, communications, and partnership development. Grassroot Soccer rigorously evaluates the efficacy of its programs through routine monitoring & evaluation and research, integrating these insights, along with the latest science and research in the field, into its programs so that they have the greatest impact possible, while also contributing to the greater understanding of what works in adolescent health. Grassroot Soccer also works closely with government and non-governmental partners to share learning from our implementation and research and provide technical assistance.

Other activities: Grassroot Soccer also works to facilitate adolescents' access to health services through active linkages to health service providers, community mobilization and norm strengthening, engagement with family members through home visits, and through coach-escorted referrals.

Educating and building the health assets of adolescents: Grassroot Soccer harnesses the power of Soccer and fun to implement school-based and out-of-school interventions ("skillz" programs) that build the health knowledge and life skills of young people and provide them with the information they need to make healthier decisions in their lives. Skillz programs, which are facilitated by trained near-peer mentor coaches, are adapted to the age and gender of participants and include information relevant to young people in their specific contexts.