New cycle of Qader Award breaks down barriers to sporting opportunity

A Qatar Foundation (QF) initiative that breaks down financial barriers to inclusive sporting opportunities for children and their families has entered its fourth cycle – and applications are now open.

Since its launch in 2018, the Ability Friendly Programme has been supporting people of all abilities to participate in sport and developmental activities at QF’s Education City, and in Al Khor and Al Wakra, through offering specialised football and swimming classes, seasonal camps, and events tailored to individual needs and abilities.To ensure this community-focused initiative is accessible to everyone, QF created the Qader Award, the recipients of which can register for either the Ability Friendly football or swimming programme for an entire academic year, at no cost. Over its first three cycles, 73 people have benefited from the award, and QF is now inviting applications for its fourth cycle, which runs until April 28.“The Ability Friendly Programme reflects QF’s belief in inclusivity and accessibility, and in the four years since it was launched, we have seen it provide life-changing experiences and opportunities for so many children and young people, and their families,” said, Kathleen Bates, senior ASD/special needs aquatic specialist and coach at QF. “It is a programme that truly shows people of all abilities what they can achieve, and that there are no boundaries to potential.“However, we recognised that, for some families, cost can be an obstacle to participating in a programme that would bring great value and enjoyment to them. This is why we created the Qader Award, and the engagement of this initiative over its first three cycles shows how the Ability Friendly Programme is seen within our community as something that makes a real difference to them.Applicants are eligible for consideration to receive the Qader Award for the 2022-23 academic year if they or a family member have a special need or disability, are living in Qatar, and are aged four or above. Those selected can begin participating in the Ability Friendly Programme in August 2022.