REMAR

Project

Fueling a movement of hope and transforming lives from the inside out!

Through sports, mentorship, faith, and practical opportunities that empower children, support families, and shape a new generation.

What They Do

Recriando Marajoara Association – REMAR is a initiative located in the rural area of Japeri, in the state of Rio de Janeiro — a region marked by poverty and limited opportunities. With few prospects and little hope, many children fall into a generational cycle of poverty. REMAR’s mission is to promote social transformation, encourage professional development, build self-esteem, and share the message of Jesus.

Main Areas of Action:

Sports

Soccer is used as a tool for inclusion and transformation. More than 140 children, ages 5 to 18, take part in weekly training and tournaments, representing their city in regional and state competitions.

Family Support

The project leadership distributes food, clothing, furniture, assists with home repairs, and provides health and transportation support.

Career Pathways

Youth are trained and supported to apply for the Air Force, with help in physical preparation, academics, documentation, and interviews.

Evangelism

After earning the community’s trust, REMAR leaders share the Christian faith through consistent and practical outreach.

Results & Impact

The project’s greatest achievements are seen in the lives transformed — children and families who embraced the support offered and found a path to a better life.

  • Over 400 have participated since the beginning.

  • 92 youth have joined the Air Force or other military branches.

  • None of the youth currently involved are engaged in drug trafficking.

  • Dozens of families share testimonies of restored hope and opportunity.

Current Challenges

REMAR recently relocated to a new site with no existing infrastructure. The first goals are to build a changing room, storage area, classroom, and a wall around the soccer field. Looking to the future, the dream is to construct a multi-purpose center with classrooms, a kitchen, and a gathering space — along with a sustainable income source to support basic operations.

How It Started

REMAR was founded in 2018 by Kiara and Wanderson Santos, after the tragic loss of his 5-year-old son. While rebuilding their lives in Japeri, they were moved by the needs of local children. What began with offering simple snacks in their unfinished home soon grew into a full-scale community project — giving rise to REMAR and its mission to restore hope and opportunity in the region.