The project partnered with a local organization, Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, which provides psychological support services and local sports opportunities for young people. Inspired by the organization’s model, the youth leaders wanted to create more opportunities for young people to participate in unified activities and build a truly inclusive community.

The youth leaders, Katerin and Maria, worked closely with the Director of Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos to develop two workshops designed to help local teachers promote inclusion within their schools and communities.
The project leaders were inspired by their mentors, who continuously encouraged and supported them to be the best they could be.
The project focused on equipping local teachers with the knowledge and tools to promote inclusion among young people. The youth leaders developed and delivered two workshops during the semester for teachers involved with a community organization that provides psychological support services to young people.

In addition to the teacher workshops, the project created opportunities for youth with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate in Unified Sports together. Through these activities, young people were able to build connections, develop friendships, and experience the benefits of inclusion through sport.

Moving forward, local schools will continue promoting inclusion by incorporating the initiatives and activities developed through the project.
The project contributed to the creation of a Unified Champion School near Guatemala City, Guatemala, bringing students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities together through sports and inclusive activities. Through teacher training and Unified Sports, the project helped strengthen inclusion within the school community.
Following the success of the project, the youth leaders reflected on some of their favorite memories and the skills they developed throughout the experience. They shared that the project helped them strengthen their relationships with their families while also creating new friendships and connections within their community.

Through their involvement, the youth leaders also developed greater independence and strengthened their leadership, event coordination, and public speaking skills. Most importantly, the experience gave them an opportunity to take an active role in creating a more inclusive community for their peers.