Through a program of reality-based interventions, solutions, and innovations, the SafeGames Project seeks to create a discussion which is both frank and positive, but which remains non-judgmental, around the issue of “Celebrating Safely.” The Project works to create and implement effective interventions that not only promote individual health and safety for the duration of an event, but that impart lasting value on a larger scale, for communities and municipalities.

Since the spread of television and the Internet, the staging of large events has become one of the most effective ways for a country or city to place itself front and centre on the world stage, however temporarily, and show itself off as a successful society. The mass audiences, celebrities, iconic structures and consumption associated with spectacles offer much appeal. Image enhancement; new investment; additional employment and sales; new recreational opportunities; renewed civic morale; and renewed interest in sports and cultural activities are all benefits. Today, cities and nations vigorously compete to host events because they perceive that doing so will enhance their image and stimulate their economies.

However, against any potential benefits of hosting such large scale events are likely to be a series of health and safety considerations, which can include risks sometimes associated with alcohol and drug use, sexual activity, crime and violence. The Safegames Project works to mitigate such risks with education and resources, though the promotion of municipal health and safety initiatives, and though its support of local providers of direct services and advocacy.

The SafeGames Project and SafeGames are not affiliated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Salt Lake City Organizing Committee for the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (SLOC), the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC), the London Organizing Committee for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Summer Games (LOCOG), the Sochi 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Organizing Committee, the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Organizing Committee, or the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).