Moving Forward
This project's parent organization is Mercy Corps
It operates in China
It uses Multiple sports
Entered the Best New Project
More about Moving Forward
The 7.9 magnitude earthquake in China in May 2008 changed the lives of children in Sichuan Province forever. Tens of thousands of families have been displaced to temporary housing in camps for survivors of the earthquake. Despite the authorities’ efforts to provide shelter, clean water, and sanitation, these are difficult places for children.
There are few green spaces or playgrounds. Every day spent here reminds the children of the earthquake. Moving Forward gives these children time and space to play, helping them emerge from their grief and trauma and re-learn social and emotional skills through sports, dance and other games. In structured weekly sessions, children spend time on high-energy physical activities, followed by games and mentor-led discussions designed to improve self-esteem, resiliency and trust-building.
“There are a lot of uncertainties among the children,” says 24-year-old Zhang Xiaocui, who coordinates play activities on behalf of the local Women’s Federation. “Our program helps them share those feelings with us and other children.” Moving Forward is helping these children learn to cope through sports and games, asserting their right to play and enabling them to create a better future.