Brazil

Tapera Stand Up Paddle

The TAPERA Stand Up Paddle Foundation project was born in 2018 thanks to a partnership between Floripa Stand Up Paddle, the Florianopolis Sports Secretariat and the “Bem Possível” Institute.

In the Tapera neighborhood in Brazil, vulnerable children are referred by the Guardianship Council, the CRAS (Reference Center for Social Assistance), and the PAEFI (Protection and Specialized Assistance Service for Families and Individuals).

The Decathlon Florianópolis teams decided to launch a Foundation project in partnership with the Bem Possível Institute, to provide these children with opportunities, get out of their daily lives, meet other young people, create social links through sport and share moments of conviviality. It also makes a sport that is usually expensive more accessible.

Paddle courses have a positive impact on physical, psychological and emotional health. It’s a great way to build self-esteem and community.

The Sports Secretariat provided the necessary funds for the salaries of the professionals involved. Floripa Stand Up Paddle provided all the necessary equipment: boards, paddles and life jackets. Finally, the “Ben Possível” Institute provides all the necessary professionals: a stand-up paddle teacher, a psychologist and a social worker.

The foundation project enabled the association to purchase wetsuits and life jackets for the children, 10 stand-up paddle boards, 20 socks, 30 pairs of neoprene shoes, 2 travel mats and outfits for the instructors.

To date, this project supports 50 children aged 6 to 14 years old, twice a week, in the morning and afternoon. The Decathlon teams regularly visit the site to practice paddleboarding with them.