Laying the Foundation: A New Sports Court and a Growing Partnership in Shopping Park

A few months ago, an unexpected challenge became an opportunity for transformation at Estação Vida Community Center in Uberlândia, Brazil. When the city required the removal of several trees from the property, it presented not just a logistical hurdle but also a chance to reimagine how the space could serve the community. Out of that moment came something remarkable: a new sports court for the children of Shopping Park.

Uberlândia Development Initiatives (UDI) was proud to help make this project a reality. By contributing to both the cost of tree removal and the laying of the court’s concrete foundation, we helped turn a compliance issue into a space for play, growth, and community building.

Estação Vida has long been a lifeline in the under-resourced Shopping Park neighborhood, serving over 150 children each year. Since its founding in 2004, the center has provided a safe, enriching environment where youth can access meals, academic support, and extracurricular programs including sports, music, computing, and martial arts. For many families, Estação Vida is more than a program—it’s a pillar of stability and hope.

UDI was established in 2020 to support this vital work. As a U.S.-based nonprofit, our mission is to raise awareness and resources for Estação Vida, connecting international donors with grassroots impact. We envision a thriving, inclusive community where every child in Shopping Park has the opportunity to flourish.

In the coming days, we’ll be sharing more about what’s next for Estação Vida and how you can be part of the journey. Whether through a donation, advocacy, or simply sharing our story, your support helps pave the way for lasting change.