NAF Supports Soccer in the Streets
Northside Athletes Foundation began supporting Soccer in the Streets in 2020 and so far has donated $94,190.
About Soccer in the Streets
Soccer in the Streets (SITS) offers a unique combination of soccer and life-skills programming to youth in communities, schools, and at MARTA StationSoccer locations. Soccer in the Streets has been at work in Atlanta's underserved communities for over thirty years. Soccer in the Streets connects young, bright, culturally competent role models with children, inspiring them to follow the right path and introduce opportunities available to them. Through soccer, trained coaches teach skills and life lessons such as personal responsibility and job readiness. This engagement creates a lasting relationship of trust and a feeling of community. For more information, please visit soccerstreets.org.
According to Jonathan Gosse, VP of Development, Soccer In The Streets:
The Northside Athletes Foundation (NAF) has made a significant impact on the success of Soccer in the Streets, a youth development organization that uses soccer as a tool for social change. Through the support of NAF, the organization has been able to expand its reach and provide even more opportunities for young people in the community.
One of the most notable ways that NAF has helped Soccer in the Streets is through their support of the StationSoccer - West End program. This unique program combines soccer programming with social and emotional learning activities, and it has been made possible through NAF's contribution of funds. With this support, Soccer in the Streets is able to provide free access to over 200 youth per year, giving them the chance to learn valuable life skills while also participating in a sport they love.
Another area where NAF has made a significant impact is through the expansion of the "Garden FC" community gardening project. This project highlights the connections between sport, nutrition, and community well-being, and it has been made possible through the support of NAF. The expansion of this project has allowed for more youth to be involved in the community and learn about the importance of healthy eating and environmental stewardship.
In addition to these programs, NAF has also provided support for the community Learning Center that will be opening in the summer of 2023. This space is designed to be an indoor/outdoor classroom space and a hub serving community members of all ages. It will also anchor Soccer in the Streets' educational programs in college/career readiness and financial literacy. This center will be a valuable resource for the community and will provide opportunities for young people to learn and grow in ways they may not have had access to before.
Overall, the Northside Athletes Foundation has played a vital role in the success of Soccer in the Streets. Through their support, the organization has been able to expand its reach and provide more opportunities for young people in the community. The StationSoccer - West End program, the expansion of the "Garden FC" community gardening project, and the support for the community Learning Center are all examples of the positive impact that NAF has had on the community. Soccer in the Streets is grateful for the support of NAF and looks forward to continuing to work together to make a positive impact in the community.
We are looking forward to continuing this relationship as Soccer in the Streets continues to build StationSoccer at more MARTA stations around the city.
