Introduction from the Founder,

President and CEO - Johann Koss

At Right To Play we believe that physical activity, well-designed sport programs and play offer a path to physical, social and emotional health. Play is the primary means through which young children explore and learn about the world and themselves. Sport also possesses a natural convening power and can provide a safe environment for the discussion of sensitive issues with trusted adults.

This is the foundation on which Right To Play was established. Beginning as Olympic Aid in 2000, with two projects in Côte d’Ivoire and Angola, Right To Play has evolved into an organization that now spans 23 countries across the globe. Our programs embody the highest and best values of sport and are carefully designed to encourage the healthy physical, social and emotional development of children and youth.In each location, we have seen the tremendous impact that sport and play can have—to reach people, to connect them to each other, and to communicate important information—and truths—in a way that resonates and takes hold.

This first issue of RESULTS chronicles this journey. In these pages, we will show some of our statistics — number of programs, Volunteers and children reached. We will also illustrate—in an anecdotal and qualitative way—how Right To Play impacts children, our program Leaders and their respective communities.

Right To Play is an organization that both remains true to its original founding principles of inclusion and sustainability, while continually adapting to meet the challenges of tomorrow. We have learned important lessons over the years and here, you will see the ways in which we are putting these learnings into practice.

More recently, Right To Play has established an internal monitoring and evaluation process that draws on experts who conduct interviews in local language, lead focus groups and collect data to help ensure we make the most of our resources and improve our results.

This inaugural issue of RESULTS is one instrument through which we will share our progress with the many important individuals and organizations that have contributed to our success.

In short: Our Vision is to create a healthier and safer world for children through the power of sport and play. It is my sincere hope that Right To Play and its supporters will continue to contribute to this important goal, because we all know that when children play, the world wins.

Johann Olav Koss,

Founder, President and CEO

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