OMBOLD (‘On the Ball’ in English) is an innovative Danish NGO that uses football as a tool to improve the physical and mental health of vulnerable people. Since 2003, OMBOLD has helped 20,000 homeless and at-risk men and women reconnect with society while improving their health and self esteem.

Under the motto ‘Soccer, Community, and Change,’ OMBOLD provides a home for people who would not normally engage with community sports associations. This includes those struggling with abuse, homelessness, and psychological and physical issues. The players participate in training, competitions, and championships, among other social and physical activities. Not everyone in OMBOLD is a committed soccer player – but everyone involved contributes to a nationwide soccer community that offers a helping hand to those on the fringes of society.

OMBOLD’s Homeless National Team consists of players who participate in international matches and the Homeless World Cup. Players are selected not only for their football skills, but also for their motivations and ability to engage with teammates, coaches and others. All selected players have been affected by homelessness or have faced issues with substance abuse or mental disorders.

Each year, companies, organizations, politicians, and former professional footballers showcase their football skills in OMBOLD‘s Sponsor Cup. This event benefits the Danish Homeless National Team, raising funds to ensure its full participation in the Homeless World Cup. The Sponsor Cup is a celebratory football tournament that unites participants for a single good cause, regardless of political and corporate rivalries. Football legend Michael Laudrup is a member of OMBOLD‘s board and has been an ambassador for the organisation for several years.

Further information on OMBOLD is available here