Why YIDP?

At the Youth Initiative Development Programme (YIDP), we recognize the intersection of disaster risk reduction and mental health in building resilient communities. Natural disasters, climate change, and environmental challenges not only cause physical devastation but also significantly impact the mental health of affected populations. Using sports as a tool for building resilience, we aim to help communities cope with disaster risks while fostering mental well-being. By integrating sports into disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, YIDP offers a unique approach to mitigating disaster risks and addressing the psychological toll of such events.

• Resilience Building: Through sports, we provide youth and communities with the tools to strengthen mental resilience and reduce vulnerability to disaster-related stress.
• Integrated Mental Health Support: We connect the physical activity of sports with the mental health needs of those affected by disasters, creating safe spaces for recovery and personal empowerment.
• Proven Impact: Our approach harnesses the power of sport to engage individuals in meaningful ways, offering a structured environment that promotes mental and physical well-being.

Why We Do It

Disasters—whether natural or man-made—have lasting effects on communities, especially in regions that face frequent environmental shocks. These events can lead to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and trauma, all of which contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). At YIDP, we focus on mitigating these risks by using sports as a tool for both disaster preparedness and psychological recovery. Here’s why we do it:

1. Reducing Vulnerability: We aim to reduce the vulnerability of communities to disaster-related stress by promoting mental resilience and preparedness.
2. Connecting Mental and Physical Health: We understand that physical activity plays a crucial role in mental recovery. By incorporating sports into disaster risk management, we provide a holistic solution to both physical and mental challenges.
3. Preparing for the Future: Beyond recovery, our programs equip youth and communities with the knowledge and skills to be better prepared for future disasters, helping them mitigate risks proactively.
4. Supporting Recovery: In post-disaster environments, sports offer a structured outlet for healing, helping communities rebuild both mentally and physically.

What We Do