Founded 18 years ago, the Lacoste Foundation has made it its mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in their social and professional integration through sport. This commitment stems from founder René Lacoste’s belief in the power of sport as a means for young people to reach their full potential. The Foundation aims to help these youth rediscover their confidence and guide them towards success, regardless of the challenges they may have faced in the past, be it personal, economic, or physical.
The Lacoste Foundation has connected with over 100,000 young people, with a focus on encouraging physical activity, promoting sport inclusivity, investing in education, and facilitating employability. Through supporting nearly 300 projects in 25 countries since 2006, the Foundation has made a significant impact on the lives of these individuals. By emphasizing the teaching of essential values alongside sports activities, such as confidence, perseverance, and rigour, the Foundation aligns itself with René Lacoste’s own principles of achieving goals with determination and pleasure.
In an effort to promote and showcase the transformative power of sport in social impact, the Lacoste Foundation recently helped finance the documentary ‘XXI, le sport des solutions’. This film, based on a book by David Blough, explores various initiatives at the intersection of sport and social change, featuring compelling testimonies from beneficiaries, athletes, educators, and association members. Through this documentary, the Foundation aims to inspire others to support educational initiatives through sport and shed light on the positive impact they can have on communities.
One notable organization supported by the Lacoste Foundation is the Gol de Letra association in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which provides sports opportunities and educational support to 700 young people from disadvantaged favelas. By offering access to professional training in fields such as sales and sports coaching, Gol de Letra empowers youth to pursue their dreams and break the cycle of poverty. The Foundation’s partnership with Gol de Letra exemplifies its commitment to promoting education through sports and uplifting communities through meaningful initiatives.
Although the positive influence of sports on social integration is increasingly recognized, the Lacoste Foundation acknowledges that there is still much work to be done, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. Moving forward, the Foundation is dedicated to expanding its support for educational sports programs and fostering a culture of cooperation and solidarity. By sharing insights and best practices, the Foundation aims to inspire others to join in its efforts and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
In conclusion, the Lacoste Foundation’s unwavering dedication to empowering disadvantaged youth through sports and education embodies the spirit of its founder, René Lacoste. By investing in transformative projects, supporting essential values, and advocating for social change through sport, the Foundation continues to make a positive impact on the lives of thousands of young people around the world. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, the Foundation stands at the forefront of efforts to promote social integration and create a brighter future for generations to come.
