The day began in Harlem with participants from the Foundation’s Creative Works programme at Harlem Lacrosse, a school-based non-profit that uses lacrosse as a gateway to provide academic support for young people in under-resourced communities.
Supported by LFC partner Kodansha, Creative Works helps young adults across New York City and Northern New Jersey explore careers in the creative industries.
Next up, LFC Foundation coaches travelled to the Bronx for a soccer clinic with young people from South Bronx United and Good Shepherd Services.
The participants were taking part in LFC Foundation’s Soccer Works programme, delivered in partnership with Japan Airlines. The programme combines football with employability workshops, helping young people develop workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, resilience, problem-solving and interview preparation.
South Bronx United uses football as a vehicle for change, supporting young people and their families through education, college preparation, immigration and legal support.
Participants from Good Shepherd Services also took part in the session, with the organisation providing education, career development and family support programmes for young people across underserved communities.
Matt Parish, chief executive officer of LFC Foundation, said: “One of the things we’re most passionate about at LFC Foundation is creating opportunities for young people, and it’s fantastic to see that work continuing here in New York through programmes like Creative Works and Soccer Works.
“These sessions weren’t just about football. They were about bringing young people together, building confidence, creating new experiences and celebrating everything they’ve achieved through the Creative Works and Soccer Works programmes.
“We’d like to thank Harlem Lacrosse, South Bronx United, Good Shepherd Services, and of course our club partners Kodansha and Japan Airlines for their continued support.”
The football clinic is one of a number of community events being delivered by LFC Foundation during the club’s time in the USA, including hospital visits, soccer clinics and meet and greets with current and former players.
