In August 2020, a massive explosion struck Beirut’s port, causing extensive destruction and leaving numerous families in need of assistance. In response, we organized a fundraising event with Together LiBeirut to support affected families through a unique series of sports challenges.
The 19.8 Beirut Global Sports Challenge aimed to support families affected by the devastating Beirut port explosion of August 2020. With a series of sports challenges, the event sought to rally both local and international communities around a common cause, raising funds to aid those impacted. The event name, "19.8," symbolized the area of Beirut in square kilometers, and each challenge was tied to this meaningful figure to honor the resilience of Beirut's people and reinforce the spirit of community. Our objective extended beyond fundraising; we aimed to foster solidarity, build awareness of the families’ needs, and provide a unifying experience for participants during a time of recovery and rebuilding
The primary challenge was to create a compelling fundraising event that could capture public interest and inspire support for Beirut families in need. Designing sports activities that appealed to diverse age groups and skill levels required careful planning and coordination, especially with over 10 sports represented. To keep audiences engaged and motivated to donate, we crafted activities that were both symbolic and approachable. Another critical challenge was logistical: managing different sports venues, securing resources, and coordinating volunteers across locations. To achieve the fundraising target, we had to amplify visibility with a robust marketing campaign that spanned social media, local press, and PR efforts, all while ensuring smooth logistics and creating an environment that would resonate with participants and strengthen their connection to the cause.
We hosted a diverse lineup of sports challenges, mainly at ATCL, to foster community spirit and solidarity. With over 10 sports represented, the Beirut Global Sports Challenge provided options for participants of all interests and skill levels, helping to maximize public engagement and amplify fundraising. To boost event visibility, we ran an extensive marketing campaign across social media, local media, and PR channels, ensuring that all logistics and coordination were well-managed across locations to offer a smooth experience.
The first edition of the 19.8 Beirut Global Sports Challenge was an outstanding success, raising over $100,000 to support impacted families. It brought together a broad range of participants—from families and children to seasoned athletes—building a strong sense of unity and raising awareness of Beirut’s ongoing needs. The event provided a vital sense of community during a challenging time, making a lasting impact.
