Business Details
32 Years
experience
Empowering Youth Through Soccer Programs Nationwide
The US Soccer Foundation was established to harness the transformative power of soccer for youth development in underserved communities. Since our founding in 1994, we have implemented evidence-based programs that address critical social challenges through sports. Our Soccer for Success initiative engages over 1 million children annually, while our Safe Places to Play program has created 800+ mini-pitches nationwide. Our Coach-Mentor Training develops role models who positively impact young lives, with 98% of communities reporting increased safety through our interventions. Partnering with organizations like Colgate Bright Smiles and MetLife Foundation, we combine sports with health education and infrastructure development.Our Just Ball League provides free access to soccer for youth facing economic barriers, and our SHAPE America collaboration expands school-based programming. With 86% of participants demonstrating improved behaviors like school retention, we focus on measurable outcomes. Our board includes soccer legends like Kristine Lilly and Cobi Jones, who lend credibility to our mission. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we maintain strict financial transparency through annual audited reports. Our 2026 goals include expanding to 1,000 mini-pitches and maintaining our legacy beyond the World Cup. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, we continue transforming children's lives through soccer.
Services
Soccer for Success
Safe Places to Play
Just Ball League
Coach-Mentor Training
Mini-Pitch Development
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in youth soccer development programs
- Our evidence-based initiatives have created 800+ safe play spaces nationwide
- We partner with major corporations like MetLife and Colgate for comprehensive impact
- 98% of communities report increased safety with our mini-pitch installations
- Our mentorship programs show 86% improvement in positive youth behaviors
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Services
Soccer for Success
Our Soccer for Success initiative engages over 1 million children annually in structured soccer activities. This program combines physical activity with mentorship to improve health outcomes and academic performance. Participants develop teamwork skills while gaining access to caring adult role models in their communities.
Safe Places to Play
We create safe play spaces through our Safe Places to Play program. With 800+ mini-pitches constructed nationwide, these facilities provide accessible soccer venues in underserved areas. Each installation includes community engagement to ensure long-term maintenance and safety improvements.
Coach-Mentor Training
Our Coach-Mentor Training develops qualified leaders who combine soccer instruction with life skills guidance. Certified mentors receive specialized training to address youth development needs while promoting physical activity and positive behaviors in participants.
Just Ball League
The Just Ball League provides free soccer access to youth facing economic barriers. This initiative removes financial obstacles by offering equipment, facilities, and coaching at no cost to participants in underserved communities nationwide.
Community Partnerships
We establish strategic partnerships with corporations and organizations to expand our impact. Collaborations with entities like MetLife Foundation and Colgate enable comprehensive programs that combine soccer with health education and infrastructure development.
People
Ed Foster-Simeon
President & CEO
Leading the Foundation since 2021, Ed brings 25+ years of nonprofit leadership experience. He previously served as CEO of the Children's Health Fund and has worked with major healthcare organizations to improve community outcomes.
Kristine Lilly
Board Member
Olympic gold medalist and former U.S. Women's National Team member with 352 international appearances. She contributes soccer expertise and advocacy for women's sports development through her board role.
Cobi Jones
Board Member
Former U.S. Men's National Team player with 164 caps, now serving on our board. He brings professional soccer insights and community engagement experience from his broadcasting career.
Sarah Pickens
Vice President, Programs
Overseeing program implementation nationwide, Sarah has 15+ years of experience in nonprofit program management. She previously worked with international development organizations before joining the Foundation in 2018.
Dave LaRocca
Director, Research & Evaluation
Leading our data-driven approach, Dave holds a PhD in Sports Science and has published extensively on youth development through sports. He ensures program effectiveness through rigorous evaluation methods.
Questions
What is the United States Soccer Foundation's primary mission?
We use soccer to help children in underserved communities improve health, education, and life outcomes through structured programs and safe play spaces.
How do you measure program effectiveness?
We track metrics like physical activity levels, school retention rates, and community safety improvements, with 86% of participants showing positive behavioral changes.
Can communities apply for mini-pitch installations?
Yes, we accept applications through our website for Safe Places to Play projects, prioritizing areas with limited recreational facilities.
How can individuals get involved?
Volunteer opportunities include coaching, mentoring, and event support. Visit our website to explore ways to contribute to youth development.
What partnerships support your programs?
We collaborate with corporations like MetLife and Colgate, as well as organizations like SHAPE America to expand our reach and resources.
How are donations utilized?
Funds support program implementation, facility construction, coach training, and community partnerships that directly benefit underserved youth.
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