2023 - 2024 Annual Report
Crossing the Gain Line: A Beacon of Unity and Growth
"Crossing the Gain Line," rooted in the UK but with a vibrant heart in Myanmar, continues to champion the spirit of rugby amidst an evolving landscape of challenges. As the world emerges from the shadows of a global pandemic, our charity has been a beacon of resilience, adapting to meet the needs of the whole child and their community with unwavering commitment.
Our Children: Pillars of the Future
At the core of our mission are the children from Yangon's most impoverished communities — the orphans and the street children, whose lives are narratives of resilience and hope. Our expanded collaboration with partner charities has fortified a network of support, embracing
these children, their families, and their communities in a circle of care. Together, we are building pillars of a brighter future, rooted in the values of rugby and the strength of communal support, steering them towards a horizon of unlimited potential.
Executive Summary
Overview
As we moved into March 2023, the world began to emerge from the shadows of the pandemic,
prompting a strategic shift in our operations. With the conclusion of our food assistance program, "Crossing the Gain Line" refocused its energies on our foundational
activity: rugby. This period was characterized by a vigorous recommitment to our sport and education initiatives, despite facing unprecedented challenges in the wake of the political turmoil in Myanmar.
Achievements and Challenges
In a year of resilience and adaptation, we hosted four touch rugby tournaments, a testament to our athletes' perseverance and skill. These events not only provided a platform for showcasing talent but also reinforced the sense of community and belonging among our participants.
However, the year was not without its trials.
The educational support programs, notably our flagship online English
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program, were temporarily halted due to the escalating political situation in Myanmar. This setback has been a difficult pill to swallow, yet it strengthens our resolve to revive these vital educational initiatives as soon as circumstances permit.
In reflection, the period from March 2023 to February 2024 was a time of focused adaptation, where we celebrated the undiminished spirit of our young athletes while navigating the
challenges presented by a changing world. Our commitment to the educational and athletic
development of underprivileged communities remains unwavering, and we look forward with optimism to reinstating our full suite of
programs, building on the lessons of
resilience and adaptability we've learned.
Evolving Presence: CTGL’s Recognition as an INGO in Myanmar
In the year following the appointment of our first full-time Operations Manager in Myanmar, "Crossing the Gain Line" (CTGL) has seen remarkable growth and development in its mission and operations. This pivotal period has not only solidified our commitment to the communities we serve but has also culminated in CTGL being officially recognized as an International
Non-Governmental Organization (INGO) in Myanmar. This recognition is a monumental milestone in our journey, marking a new chapter of enhanced capabilities and expanded reach.
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Building on a Strong Foundation
The groundwork laid by our Operations Manager in the previous year has been instrumental in achieving this status. Through their dedicated efforts, CTGL has significantly improved program delivery, operational efficiency, and community engagement. These advancements have showcased our organization's commitment to transparency, accountability, and impactful work, aligning with the stringent criteria required for INGO recognition in Myanmar.
Enhanced Operational Capabilities
With INGO status, CTGL has gained access to a wider array of resources, networks, and partnerships, further amplifying our impact. This enhanced operational capacity has enabled us to extend our programs to more communities, reaching an even greater number of children and families in need. The official recognition has also bolstered our credibility, attracting additional support from international donors, partners, and volunteers keen to contribute to our mission.
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Deepening Impact Through Local and International Collaboration
As a recognized INGO, CTGL has fostered stronger collaborations with both local and international entities, leveraging these partnerships to enrich our programs. From advanced training for our rugby coaches to expanded educational initiatives, these collaborations have been pivotal in providing holistic support to the communities we serve. Our Operations Manager has played a crucial role in facilitating these partnerships, ensuring that they align with our goals and values and that they effectively address the needs of the communities we work with.
Looking to the Future
The recognition of CTGL as an INGO in Myanmar is not just a testament to our past achievements but also a beacon for our future endeavors. It empowers us to dream bigger, reach further, and impact more lives through our comprehensive support for underprivileged communities. With a firm foundation and a clear vision, we are set to expand our rugby and educational programs, alongside initiating new projects that address the multifaceted challenges faced by those we aim to support.
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As we move forward, the role of our Operations Manager and the CTGL team in Myanmar will continue to be central to our strategy. Their on-the-ground insights, expertise, and dedication are pivotal in navigating the complexities of our work, ensuring that every effort is made towards a future where every child and community we touch is empowered to cross their gain line.
Looking Ahead to 2024-2025
For the upcoming 2024-2025 period, our vision encompasses both the consolidation of our achievements and the exploration of new growth opportunities. Our planned targets are:
Further Develop the Rugby Program: Building on our foundation, we plan to introduce new training methodologies and reach more communities through our rugby program.
Continue Upskilling Coaches : Ongoing coach development remains a priority, ensuring our staff remain at the forefront of rugby coaching excellence.
Enhance Equipment and Facilities: We will continue to upgrade our training facilities and equipment, supporting the optimal development of our athletes.
Expand Donor Engagement: A strategic focus on expanding our donor base will be crucial, aiming to secure the resources needed to sustain and grow our programs.
These targets are set with an optimistic outlook towards creating lasting positive change in the lives of children and communities through the power of rugby and education.
How you can help
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Crossing the Gain Line is 100% reliant on donations from the public. Our overheads are extremely low since we rely mostly on volunteers. Your donations directly towards our projects in Myanmar. Therefore, your money is directly creating a better life and future for many young people
We can accept donations on our website. https://crossingthegainline.org
We also accept donations via
Give as you Live > https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/donate?cid=231360
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