Vasilis and George will lead a Youth Innovation Project that engages Youth Leaders and athletes in inclusive opportunities that go beyond sports and allow them to contribute to protecting the environment. Vasilis and George saw a need for this project since many athletes with intellectual disabilities don’t get the chance to partake in such activities, especially with others their age. They hope that by getting youth with and without intellectual disabilities to work together with local authorities on this project, they will not only create a more inclusive community, but also a safer and greener environment.  

Over a period of six months, Vasilis and George will engage 15 new Youth Leaders and 30 athletes in their project, which focuses on educating athletes about environmental protection and taking action with activities like planting trees. The athletes and Youth Leaders will work closely with their local municipal council, the environmental department and the forest department on this project, which will both help youth to improve their communication skills and allow local authorities to learn about and interact with people who have intellectual disabilities. Vasilis and George will also encourage Youth Leaders to share what they’ve learned about environmental protection in their schools with the hope of engaging even more athletes in similar projects. Through their project, Vasilis and George will provide an example of how inclusion can contribute to uniting and protecting the world.