Our Origin Story

Inspired by Pope Francis at the Vatican’s 2016 Global Conference on Faith and Sport.

The Spark of a Global Movement

Sport at the Service of Humanity was inspired by Pope Francis during the Global Conference on Faith and Sport held at The Vatican in October 2016. In his address, the Holy Father encouraged:

“…as sportsmen, I invite you not only to play like you already do, but there is something more: challenge yourself in the game of life like you are in the game of sports. I ask that you live your sport as a gift from God, an opportunity not only to bring your talents to fruition, but also as a responsibility.”

Thomas Bach of the International Olympic Committee and Ban Ki-Moon of the United Nations collaborated closely with The Holy See to bring together over 350 global leaders from sport and faith.

Guided by Our Principles

The Declaration of Principles—a direct outcome of the inaugural conference—continues to guide our work and values today. These principles are the foundation of everything we do.

The Sport at the Service of Humanity Foundation is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a singular vision: to see a world where we Live Like We Play

Our Core Values – The 3 Pillars

Involvement
"Sport for Change"

Harnessing the transformational power of sport to be a catalyst for peace, development, and social change.

Inclusion
"Sport for All"

Advocating for unity and absolute inclusion in sport regardless of race, gender, resources, ability, faith, or other factors.

Inspiration
"Sport for Life"

Inspiring and promoting the importance of values in sport and in life through shared ideas and inspirational stories.

Our Journey – Key Milestones

  • 2026

    Regional SSH Conference to be hosted at Seton Hall University.

  • 2021–2025

    Regional SSH Conferences hosted by Marquette and Creighton Universities.

    HSC digital platform re-launched as an app called the Milwaukee Sports Collective, in partnership with Save the Dream.

    Higher Ed academic, athletics, and mission program launched at St. Mary's College with 10 participating faith-based Universities.

  • 2017–2019

    Regional SSH Conferences hosted by Villanova, Loyola Marymount, and Georgetown Universities.

    Humanity Sports Club digital platform launched in Africa, powered by Allianz.

    Young Leaders Mentoring Program launched globally, powered by ISPS Handa.

    Pope Francis & SSH inspire the NHL's declaration of principles.

    NFLPA youth summer camps integrate SSH principals by Spoken Word.

  • 2016

    Inaugural Global Conference on Faith and Sport at The Vatican.

    SSH declaration of princles established.

    SSH Foundation established.