The initiative provides children of Title 1 elementary schools with an opportunity to play the game, while encouraging their personal and social development
CHARLOTTE, NC (Tuesday, September 14, 2021) – Charlotte FC announced today the kickoff of its inaugural Greater Goals program which will provide free after-school soccer and literacy instruction for select Title 1 elementary school students in the greater Charlotte area.
“At Charlotte FC, we believe in soccer’s power to bring positive change to the communities we serve. By providing children access to the game, we deliver on our commitment to education, inclusiveness, and social responsibility,” said Charlotte FC President Nick Kelly. “In association with our community partners, Creative Player Foundation and Soccer Foundation of Charlotte, we are very excited to launch the Greater Goals Program which will provide the chance for many young girls and boys to believe in themselves and to feel empowered through soccer.”
The program, which is being implemented for 22 elementary schools, consists of hour-long sessions twice per week led by skilled coaches and mentors. Participants will benefit from weekly programming to learn soccer skills and social values, including hard work, fair play, inclusion, teamwork, and respect.
Through their outreach, Charlotte FC’s partners Creative Player Foundation and Soccer Foundation of Charlotte have impacted thousands of young soccer players from local communities who live below the poverty line. The U.S. Government considers after-school programs essential to support social, emotional, cognitive, and academic development, reduce risky behaviors, promote physical health, and provide a safe and supportive environment for children and youth.
As part of Charlotte FC’s commitment to drive growth through the sport and community outreach, the Club has established three core programs to promote upward mobility including Greater Goals, Pitches for Progress and Captain’s Academy.
The Pitches for Progress initiative will see the club install mini soccer pitches in communities across the Carolinas. In partnership with Ally, the first pitches were unveiled in East Charlotte in June 2021.
Charlotte FC’s Captains Academy will commence later this fall bringing students from local high schools together for monthly meetings to listen to and learn from leaders in our community.
The Club will execute the Greater Goals program on an annual basis starting at the beginning of each school year.
