Soccer4Change

About the Program

Category: Parks and Recreation (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

Soccer4Change is a year-round youth soccer program for teens that offers one to two weekly practices and games on Friday nights. The goal of Soccer4Change is to pull teens away from gang interaction and other risky behavior and have them engage in positive social and physical activity. Community partners that specialize in gang prevention and outreach provide coaching, transportation, and open communication to keep gang activity and recruitment to a minimum. Through soccer, teens learn the importance of commitment, accountability, respect, and teamwork. It is an opportunity for local police to show support and develop trust within the community as they assist during the games, cheer on players, and engage with the families. Players give back by participating in a community service project with their team. Players can be recognized for their efforts during playoff games and by being nominated to play in the All-Star game held at the end of each session. The community enjoys safe, fun, exciting and free entertainment each Friday night at the games and they benefit from exposure to additional recreation programs during playoff events. The benefits of Soccer4Change are felt at home, at school, and within the community as a whole.