JM SHORTCAT FOUNDATION
NGO’s and foundations giving back to the community in a more holistic manner through sport, culture and music has become more popular over the last few years. The JM ShortCat Foundation is one such organisation which is founded on the passion for sport and valuing youth empowerment in Zimbabwean communities.
The organisation was founded by the former pro-goalkeeper Japhet ’Shortcat’ Muparutsa (JM). JM comes from humble beginnings; born and raised in Mbare which is a high density township in Harare. He shares the obstacles that he faced when he was in his youth and trying to pursue his goal to play professional football. In his late teens he earned a spot to play for one of the local football teams in Harare and the rest is history. His career extended over 15 years and was the first goalkeeper to be awarded the ‘Soccer Star of the Year’ award in 1982. He also won various awards on offer during his career in Zimbabwe and Central Africa.
His upbringing created in him a heart to give back to under privileged youth with sporting goals or interests. The organisation aims to resuscitate abandoned sporting facilities in the city and slowly expanding to the rest of the country. An important goal for the organisation and its founder is to give every child a chance to explore and develop their athletic talents and do so in a conducive environment with appropriate equipment and gear.
The SC Foundation has established projects that will enhance the livelihoods of the disabled, vulnerable and underprivileged groups in our society and have a SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY which they have stated as follows:
“To engage, collaborate and partner with other institutions in Zimbabwe and beyond in fighting malnutrition, poverty, drug and substance abuse, malaria prevention and treatment, cancer, HIV and AIDS through sports, incorporating media information campaigns on these issues affecting our communities. Where necessary, in identified communities, to establish feeding centres/ schemes for vulnerable groups and establish a sport insurance scheme for the benefit of communities and its people.”
Beneficiaries to date
Chitsere Primary School
Blakiston Junior School
The Danhiko Project
Revival Academy
Highfield Area Zone
Arcadia United Vision 2020
Blakiston Junior School
The Danhiko Project
Revival Academy
Rukudzo Primary School
Wadzanai Primary SchooI
Nharira Primary School
Gwinyayi Primary School
Vhengere Academy (Rusape)
Arcadia United Vision 2020
Chitsere Primary School
Ardbennie Primary School
Chamalala Primary School (Nkhotakota,Malawi)
Nyajena Community Trust (MasvingoSouth)
Visit Japhet ShortCat Muparutsa Foundation page and find out how you can also play a part in giving back to the sporting community and striving young athletes in Zimbabwe and beyond.
http://www.jmshortcatfoundation.org/
