The problem of school absenteeism and dropout is significant, especially in developing countries. Completing studies there can make a significant difference in the long term, giving new generations the possibility to break the poverty cycle. In 2024, the FIVB established the Volleyball Foundation. Since then, it has utilized the power of volleyball to support and develop local communities worldwide. According to the FIVB Volleyball Foundation’s official website, the mission of the foundation is to create “a Greater World Shaped by Volleyball.”

What Is the FIVB Volleyball Foundation?

The FIVB Volleyball Foundation provides funding and resources to drive projects aimed at enhancing the social well-being of communities through the power of volleyball. The foundation promotes values such as collaboration, communication and teamwork, reflecting everyday life. It emphasizes a shared goal, encouraging local communities to work together to achieve outcomes. The no-contact, non-violent nature of volleyball promotes problem-solving through communication rather than violence.

The FIVB Volleyball Foundation focuses on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG3, good health and well-being at all ages; SDG10, reduced inequalities within and among countries; and SDG11, promoting sustainable cities and communities.

The Foundation’s Projects

The foundation is a new organization, currently running five projects focused on youth development, education access, gender equality, community cohesion and inclusion. Former India national team captain Abhijit Bhattacharya founded the Brahmaputra Volleyball League (BVL) in Assam, India in 2020 to promote diversity and inclusion. In 2025, the FIVB recognized BVL as the world’s largest community grassroots volleyball league. That year, the league also began a formal partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The partnership uses volleyball as a platform for child development, gender equality and the prevention of child marriage.

Today, the league continues to grow. Through the UNICEF partnership, dozens of participants have trained as community ambassadors who advocate for education, equality and social change in their villages. Bhattacharya was named the International Olympic Committee’s 2025 Global Winner for Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion for his work with the league. The BVL has also enhanced community safety by creating infrastructure, including centers where participants train and learn.

The Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Academy in Kenya provides a safe environment offering education, mentorship and volleyball training in the suburbs of Nairobi, where poverty and crime are prevalent. The FIVB Volleyball Foundation allows spots in the boarding school and many more for regular participants attending an integrated sport and education system. These programs can create life-changing opportunities for children. As one example, a girl enrolled in the program improved her grades and overall well-being within a year, according to the Foundation.

Generations for Peace (G4P) is a project that addresses the mental health and social inclusion of displaced youth in Jordan. As of July 2026, the program reports that 97% of participants have improved their psychological conditions, particularly confidence and emotional awareness. This improvement comes through volleyball training and mental support during an eight-month cycle. These outcomes, the Foundation says, result in stronger social connections and integration.

Beyond the Net is a project integrating volleyball into school programs to strengthen cooperation and community development in Ethiopia. The foundation provides teacher training on leadership, gender equality and inclusion, using volleyball as a practice tool. Teachers then impart life skills, confidence, teamwork and social inclusion to students. This project currently reaches more than 3,000 children in Ethiopia, according to the Foundation.

The last approved projects, in Tanzania, are Volley4Change and She Wish To Play. These projects foster inclusion in education, sports and leadership for girls and children with disabilities. Volleyball training is affiliated with workshops on nutrition and inclusion, skills needed in sport and everyday life. Para-volley and adapted volleyball formats accommodate various disabilities.

Sport in Education and Social Contexts

Studies conducted in 2010 by the World Health Organization (WHO) confirm the positive impact of sport on education, particularly school attendance, social integration and interaction. Research by Marsh and Kleitman shows that sport and physical activity benefit educational aspirations, college applications and enrollment. These factors also produce positive outcomes in self-esteem, well-being and future expectations.

Sport education promotes values such as fair play, respect for others and self-responsibility, key characteristics shared by sport and real life.

Although established only in 2024, the FIVB Volleyball Foundation has demonstrated that volleyball, and sport in general, is a force for positive and powerful social change. Sport has the power to improve education, mental health, well-being and future opportunities. Organizations like the Volleyball Foundation aim to utilize this ability to break the poverty cycle and provide hope and opportunities for new generations.

– Ilaria Alberti

Ilaria is based in Milan, Italy and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr