Alan, 28, has lived his entire life in one of the 12 favelas that make up Complexo do Alemão, in Rio de Janeiro. The complex suffers from frequent bouts of police violence and drug trafficking.

Despite loosing several relatives and friends, including his brother, to gun shoot-outs, Alan has managed to escape violence. At 17, he began taking boxing classes at a British NGO in another favela. Today, he is a trainer there.

In 2014, Alan decided to create his own boxing social project, called Abraço Campeão, Portuguese for Champion Hug. His passion is to offer the at-risk youngsters of Complexo do Alemão the same opportunities that he had when he was young. Leisure activities and sports programs are not common in communities which experience this violence. In « Alemão », shoot-outs are almost a daily occurrence.

Together, Alan believes that his pupils can achieve self-confidence and raise their perspectives.

Since Alan created his boxing project, more than 20 young people joined his classes. The problem is that Alan has very little boxing gear and materials. He doesn't have a sponsor or a local partnership. The British NGO has donated used gear such as gloves, boxing bags, and jumping ropes.

He fixes them up as best as he can so that students can use them, but the project reaches its limits as more young people continue to join. Alan wants to offer his students high quality equipment that will allow them to train in better conditions. Seeing Alan's enthusiasm and dedication, we decided to help him.

Alan needs 3800€ (3400£)
- Pairs of gloves : 72€ x 30 = 2160€
- Boxing bags : 120€ x 4 = 480€
- Helmets : 44€ x 8 = 352€
- Boxing ring bags : 194€ x 2 = 388€
- Skipping ropes : 7€ x 30 = 210€
- Boxing bands : 5€ x 20 = 100€

We will keep you informed of each step of Alan's project. Those who give 25€ or more will receive a photo from Rafael Fabres (gallery on the website).

Together, let's help Alan and the guys of Abraço Campeão !