Dear friends.  In mid-march, together with a wonderful group of people I will be embarking on a five-day trek across the Jordanian desert.

Together with The Arsenal Foundation we are hoping to raise as much support as possible for childhood empowerment in some of the world’s tougher places. Youth empowerment on all levels, be it more advanced or grass root, are all vital for the continued development and wellbeing of humanity. An issue I am sure is core to all of our belief systems. 

Through this particular adventure challenge, we are hoping to support youth and childhood empowerment at its most basic level, to improve the mental wellbeing of children affected by conflict and violence.  The Arsenal Foundation and Save the Children have together developed an inspiring Coaching for Life programme which seeks to build children’s courage and inner strength by harnessing the power of football and community.  A very effective social rehabilitation model by simply allowing children feel like they are children; playing sports, laughing, engaging with others, whilst also learning about soft skills and taking part in simple and fun workshops.

Today projects are run in Jordan and Indonesia with the aim being to reach 4,500 girls and boys over a three-year period.  Below is a link to their website should you want to read more about the Coaching for Life programme.

https://www.arsenal.com/thearsenalfoundation

The goal is that together we can help give children in Jordan and Indonesia the opportunities they deserve. Together we can help make this possible! 

A ‘minor’ side note: The Arsenal Foundation and the official Arsenal football organization do not share the same budget…unfortunately, they are run as two separate entities and although the Arsenal football side contribute with their support, the large majority of the Foundation’s budget is derived from fundraising.  With that said, any donation is incredibly appreciated and will be sent directly to their partner charity.

Now, since we are after all operating under the Arsenal brand, I think it is only fitting if I throw in a donation clause relating to football.  Any donation made from a supporter of an English club other than Arsenal will be personally matched by me, AND any donation made by a supporter of the white half of north London (Tottenham), will be doubled by me.  Make sure to state your club in the donation comment box.

Let us celebrate unity within and outside football!

I will keep you updated along the way as this adventure unfolds.   Thank you ever so much!