The final goal of the Halide Mehmetoglu Initiative is to provide Kurdish children with the technological experience to survive and thrive in an increasingly digital world. However, HMI also recognizes the immediate need to provide Kurdish children with athletic facilities. Not only would this distract them from the plights of their
communities, such as Lice, home to our pilot project, but it would also allow
them to exercise mentally and physically.

Lice, for example, is afflicted by extreme poverty and an array of social issues. Besides major unemployment and a lack of opportunities for youth development, Lice is also embroiled in an opioid epidemic. Unfortunately, this affects people of all ages in the town, with children as young as nine becoming addicted to hardcore narcotics such as methamphetamine.

To assist in alleviating said challenges, especially for the youth, athletic facilities
provide an alternative to illicit activities which is popular among the youth
and is both healthy and necessary in one's young years. HMI plans to provide
athletic facilities such as a soccer field volleyball and basketball courts, and amenities like showers and changing rooms. By playing team sports, young people can boost their physical fitness. Crucially, doing so will also enable young people to forge connections with their peers in a safe environment beyond the town’s criminal syndicates. It has also been proven that sports positively impact mental health. To truly aid thousands of young people in Lice holistically, please donate to the Halide Mehmetoglu Initiative.