It was through a chance meeting between our founder Kona and Emilio, a resident of the rural village of Destra, that sparked the idea for GOALS Haiti. For the past 11 years Emilio has served as Program Manager for us and became known as “Papa” GOALS by kids and parents throughout the region. Emilio is now moving on and we took a moment to talk with him about his time with GOALS.

Can you talk about what you thought about bringing GOALS to Destra in the beginning?

When GOALS had been implemented in Destra it was a joyful moment for me and also for the children in Destra who did not have any kind of leisure activities. For the kids in the community after the earthquake soccer was only the past time they could do as an activity, but they did not have any equipment to play. When GOALS came to life in Destra things started to change.

What are the changes you have seen in the communities where GOALS work?

The changes that I see in the communities where GOALS is working are a lot particularly for the girls. Through GOALS programs there are more girls who succeeded in their life and GOALS created young leaders in their communities. In the past girls in the communities were not able to play soccer because of the mentality that girls do not play sports. We encouraged that soccer is good for them and shared what the advantages are that sport can offer to them.

How has GOALS changed over the years?

In the beginning of GOALS, when we had just started the program in Destra the animation (warm up games with song and dance) with the kids was something that the kids really appreciated. We added to our programs with Purposeful Play and over the years we implemented other programs such as literacy, community gardens and expending sites so that more vulnerable kids could be a part of the program.

What are you most proud of in your work with GOALS?

Of the work that I’m most proud of its that I am the first Haitian who contributed to GOALS program actively and was able to bring it to different communities that I know are in need. I will leave GOALS, but the grassroots have already been developed. Even though I will no longer be here I strongly believe the program will continue to succeed.

We work in rural communities; without GOALS how would kids be able to have a healthy outlet?

Life can be difficult in the rural community. GOALS presence with vulnerable kids is impactful in the life of the family as a positive. Without GOALS assistance life of the kids would be harder because for many parents they are unable to provide all their basic needs.  

Why do you think sport has the power to create community change?

Sport is one of the strongest tools that people can use to create community change. The communities that GOALS has been working in since 2010 prove that sport has the power to create community change. It allows the community to build better relationships plus be inclusive and sport creates a safe space for the community whether you play or watch the game.