Football makes the difference - social inclusion through networks and beyond borders

Background Football makes the Difference project aimed to increase the participation, to ensure equal opportunities and equal access to sport. The main outputs from the Football makes the Difference project that are available on EU level and are the main elements of the EU added value are: •Close partnership between the participating organisations •Toolkit •Better trained project manager, coaches, doctors, referees, teams •Creation of a field for socialization between different groups of people Objectives The main aim of the project Football makes the difference that were achieved were:-Support the development of less developed areas in the countries of the participating organisations, -Promote employment, social and cultural inclusion-Creation and development of an EU network -Development of personal and professional skills of sports organisation-Better opportunities for people in less developed areas around Europe Implementation The project included many different stages using the Waterflow methodology. There were 6 transnational meetings organised that were really valuable for the success of the project. During two of the meeting the expansion of the activities of the sports organisations in Vidin area – Bulgaria and Ilfov area – Romania led to the inclusion and socialization of many people, a rise in sport activities in the region, a step towards healthier lifestyle. Achievements As a result of trainings from professionals business trainers, as well as the hard work of the project them, the team created a Toolkit where good practices and experience from each country were shared, as well as materials and information were structured that support the development of good budgeting, business planning and sound management of decentralization of activities. The Toolkit is available in e-version.