Sport Changes Life Victory programme, was founded in partnership with Ulster University in 2006, seeks to inspire young people through sporting excellence, vocational and academic achievement and personal development.
Through its Victory Scholar programme, Sport Changes Life provides scholarships to accomplished student athletes who will act as role models to help build self-confidence, improve life skills and empower young people to use sport as the catalyst to drive change in their lives.
The Rory Foundation has donated £120,000 to support Victory Scholars programme, which gives students primarily from US colleges the opportunity to experience a life-changing year in Ireland whilst studying a Post Graduate qualification. As part of the scholarship, the Victory Scholars also undertake community work throughout the year.
The Rory Foundation was established in 2013 to offer support to charities with a special meaning and purpose for Rory. Since its creation, the Rory Foundation has provided generous support to charities such as the Cancer Fund for Children and Mencap NI.
Rory said: "I'm delighted that my Foundation is able to support children and young adults through the Sport Changes Life programme. It's great that the programme's Victory Scholars come to Ireland to develop their skills while assisting local community outreach initiatives."
Deirdre Brennan, Professor of Physical Education and Sport at Ulster University and co-founder of Sport Changes Life said: "Ulster University provides an inclusive and inspiring environment for young people of all backgrounds to thrive. As a founding partner of Sports Changes Life, the University delivers initiatives that combine sport and education to enhance aspirations, boost career development and drive social change.
"Through the Victory Scholar programme, Ulster University gives international student athletes the opportunity to study at a world-leading institution while delivering invaluable support to children from socially and economically deprived areas in Northern Ireland.
"The partnership with the Rory Foundation further reinforces the vital role played by Sport Changes Life and Ulster University in developing the next generation of leaders both in the workplace and the community."