The Organization of American States (OAS), the Inter-American Institute for Children, Adolescents, and Youth (IIN-OAS), and Joy of Moving, Ferrero's Corporate Social Responsibility program, in collaboration with Gurises Unidos, organized an event to help

The Organization of American States (OAS), the Inter-American Institute for Children, Adolescents, and Youth (IIN-OAS), and Joy of Moving, Ferrero's Corporate Social Responsibility program, in collaboration with Gurises Unidos, organized an event to help to promote inclusion, equity, and access to rights through physical activity and sports.

Montevideo, September 17, 2024.- As part of the cooperation agreement signed between Ferrero and the Organization of American States (OAS) to promote and implement innovative actions that help to improve access to rights for vulnerable populations in the Americas, the second activity was held in Montevideo in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Children, Adolescents, and Youth (IIN-OAS) and the Uruguayan organization Gurises Unidos.

The event aimed to promote inclusion and the development of soft skills through physical activity and play. These activities are designed to enhance the social skills of children and adolescents through sports and play. It also served as an opportunity to highlight the importance of adopting a holistic approach to promoting healthy habits and their contribution to public health. Additionally, it sought to create partnerships with local organizations whose community activities have a significant and sustainable long-term impact.

Claudia Barrientos Revollo, Representative of the OAS General Secretariat in Uruguay, stated: “The OAS is deeply committed to continuing to promote sports as a tool for development and social transformation. This partnership between the OAS, Ferrero, Gurises Unidos, and the IIN is just the beginning, and together we will continue working to create a more inclusive, equitable, and healthy region.”

“Understanding the importance of play as a right to recreation and integral development is a fundamental pillar for building more inclusive communities focused on the needs of children and adolescents,” said María Julia Garcete Yegros – Director of the IIN-OAS.

Fabiana Distefano, Manager of Institutional Affairs and Corporate Communications at Ferrero for the Sout Cone, emphasized, “We are very proud to be able to carry out this activity in partnership with the OAS, the IIN, and Gurises Unidos to foster inclusion through play and sport. We firmly believe that a positive attitude towards movement and play will make today’s children better adults in the future.”

“We trust in continuing to work together to promote and defend the rights of all children and adolescents,” commented Lucía Avellanal Leal – coordinator of Gurises Unidos.

The event included theoretical and practical training to strengthen the tools of the organization’s trainers on the Joy of Moving educational method. This method, inspired by four concepts teaching children about values related to friendship, family, fair play, and fun, was developed in collaboration with the University of Rome "Foro Italico", the MIUR of the Piedmont region, and the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI). It is based on play and movement to develop skills in key areas for development and growth: physical condition, motor coordination, cognitive functions, and life skills.

In line with the OAS’s human rights instruments, the activity was conducted under the principles of equality and non-discrimination, participation, transparency, and accountability, aiming to create equitable spaces that promote gender equality and respect for diversity.

Sports and physical activity are recognized as key tools for promoting social inclusion in vulnerable contexts, improving overall well-being, and developing social skills for life.