Celebrating 15 Years of GOALS Haiti: Together, From the Field to the Future - See images from the field
This year, GOALS Haiti marked 15 years of walking alongside young people and communities, using sport as a pathway to education, leadership, health, and hope. In a country facing layered and ongoing challenges, our anniversary celebrations served as a powerful reminder of what is possible when communities come together with care, consistency, and purpose.
We celebrated this milestone the GOALS way - on the field and in community. Across three communities, more than 300 children participated in Purposeful Play games that blended joy with life skills like teamwork, communication, and confidence. Fields filled with laughter, movement, and connection, moments that matter deeply in a context where safe, joyful spaces are too often limited.
“For me, GOALS is the one place I feel free to play and learn at the same time,” shared one participant after the games. “When I’m here, I feel strong and supported.”
Alongside the games, we gathered with parents, youth leaders, coaches, and community members for meaningful conversations about the past, present, and future. These community meetings created space to reflect on how far we’ve come and how we will continue to support what young people need most right now.
“GOALS isn’t just about football,” said a local coach and program alum. “It’s about showing up every day, listening to kids, and helping them believe they have a future worth working toward.”
This anniversary was also a moment to honor the people who make GOALS possible, our all-Haitian staff and alumni coaches who lead with courage and care, often under incredibly difficult conditions. Many of them began as participants themselves and now serve as mentors and role models for the next generation.
“When I was a child, GOALS gave me confidence,” shared Robhino, a Young Leaders graduate now on staff. “Now I get to pass that same confidence on to others. That’s what 15 years looks like to me.”
As we look ahead, this milestone affirms why GOALS exists (now more than ever). In times of uncertainty, consistent, community-led spaces for play, learning, and connection are essential. Investing in young people is not just about today; it’s about building confidence, skills, leadership, and hope that will carry communities forward.
Fifteen years is something to celebrate and it is also a commitment to what comes next. From the field to the future, we move forward together.