Urban Initiatives’ staffers Connie and Julie joined 71 passionate individuals representing 48 other committed organizations from across the country for The 4th Annual Urban Soccer Symposium held in Washington DC April 21st through 23rd. The symposium was graciously presented by the Urban Soccer Collaborative and the U.S. Soccer Foundation. We were delighted to be a part of it!
This national event was designed to help develop new programs and strengthen already existing ones who are using soccer as a tool for positive youth development in underserved communities. The event is the only national event that provides, resources, trainings, information, and networking opportunities specifically addressing the issues facing these programs.
The overall greatest takeaway from the symposium for UI was the opportunity to share best practices with likeminded organizations. It was incredible to be in the same room with so many other people who share UI’s passion for soccer-based youth development. There were organizations doing great work from Honduras to California and from Kenya to New Jersey. We look forward to partnering with many of these fabulous organizations in the future.
The Urban Soccer Collaborative and the U.S. Soccer Foundation have joined forces to develop strategies, practices, and resources that will yield measurable and sustainable results among the populations of children they strive to serve. UI is grateful to both of these incredible organizations for giving us the opportunity to take the work we are doing in Chicago and put in into a national perspective. Thank you for mobilizing a movement to use soccer to impact positive social change.
