Written by Irina Popova
In France, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have increasingly turned to sports as a
method of fostering social inclusion and personal growth among disadvantaged communities.
These organisations recognise sports as a powerful tool for building social unity, promoting
health, and offering pathways to personal and professional development.
Sport dans la Ville is a notable example of one of the French NGO groups, that expanded its
reach and impact across France. Founded by Nicolas Eschermann and Philippe Oddou in
1998, the organisation was built on the mission to provide young people in underprivileged
situations with pathways to professional and personal development through the power of
sports. Only a year after its creation in 1999, Sport dans le Ville opened its first 3 sports
centres. Now with over 26 years around with 68 sports centres, the organisation is spread
across France promoting social inclusion and health, creating a safe and supportive
environment that encourages personal growth, teamwork, and leadership skills. From the age
of 6 young individuals can participate in one of the sports programs:
- Soccer
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Dance
- Boxing
- Rugby
Additionally, the organisation offers opportunities for young participants to engage in sports
specific to their region, such as mountain climbing and swimming. As of now, 11.850 people
are enrolled in the program all around France, working together for a better future.
Sport dans la Ville focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for French youth. It
offers mentorship and structured activities that help guide participants through formative
years. This safe space encourages self-confidence and social connections, providing a
foundation for personal growth that extends beyond sports.
Sport dans la Ville expanded its programs to include opportunities such as international
experiences for children, after-school tutoring, job mentorship, entrepreneurial support, and
initiatives to empower women in sports.
“L dans le ville »
The L dans la Ville program, launched by Sport dans la Ville in 2009, aimed at empowering
young girls from disadvantaged backgrounds through sports and personal development
activities. L dans la Ville provides a space for girls to grow, learn, and gain confidence. It
addresses gender stereotypes and empowers girls by creating safe, supportive environments.
This program offers not only access to sports activities but also integrates mentorship,
workshops, and cultural outings to support girls’ social and emotional development.
As for the day, 3,525 girls have participated in the program, with 2,470 actively engaged in
regular sports sessions. Statistics reveal that 80% of participants practice sports at least once a
week, which is a considerable boost in physical activity. Moreover, 65% of former
participants continue to engage in sports, showcasing the program’s lasting influence on
promoting active lifestyles.
“Jobs dans le ville”
In addition to promoting sports for social inclusion, Sport dans la Ville has developed
targeted programs to foster professional integration of the underprivileged communities. Job
dans la Ville is a program that provides adolescents and young adults with the resources and
guidance they need to enter the workforce. All individuals who join Sport dans la Ville's
sports program are eligible to participate in this curriculum, which offers them access to a
variety of professional development opportunities to support their growth beyond the sports
field. With mentorship Sport dans le Ville helps young people to find a career path, training,
or employment. The organisation offers 4 curriculums depending on the participant's age,
goals, and student status:
- Discovery: for people in school from 3rd grade and up to high school)
- Ambition: for people in higher education seeking mentoring for their success in studies
and future employability)
- Young Graduates: for all young people looking for employment
- Passe Decisive: for people who dropped out of school or have difficulties integrating
Through these programs, NGOs like Sport dans la Ville underscore the potential of sports as a
unifying force, using it to fight social exclusion and enhance the quality of life in challenged
communities. By providing structured, community-based activities, these organizations not
only promote physical health but also inspire hope, ambition, and a pathway toward a better
future for those in need.