Every fall and spring, the “Soccerhood“ fundraiser raises money to pay for registration and equipment for the South Mountain Soccer league for children who might otherwise not have access to the program.
The effort is spearheaded by Kate Fearon (Clinton School ESL Teacher), Jennifer Latimer (Clinton School Media Specialist), Elizabeth Sarkisian (Parent) and Katie Simpson (MMS ESL teacher).
“Soccerhood works with kids and families in our South Orange-Maplewood School District ESL [English as a Second Language] programs to help with the logistics and expenses of getting interested kids enrolled in the South Mountain Soccer league,” wrote organizer Elizabeth Sarkisian in an email. “The teachers at the schools identify the kids with interest and financial need, and together we act as liaisons between the families and coaches.”
Sarkisian explained, “We assist with the registration forms, the transportation to the practices and games, and raise money to cover the cost of registration and new equipment for those that need it. This season we are sponsoring 13 boys and girls in all age groups who are now winding up their season.”
Soccerhood partners are:
- The Baird in South Orange, which runs the soccer program, sets aside the spots for the players, and gives provides credit to the sponsored students, allowing Soccerhood time to raise the dollars to pay for registration fees);
- Kicks and Sticks, which provides new equipment to players at a significant discount; and
- The South Mountain YMCA (Soccerhood is a “Togetherhood” project, which is a program that assists in promoting and supporting member-led volunteer efforts that benefit the South Orange-Maplewood community)
As of October 25, Soccerhood had collected $897 toward its goal of $2,950 — about 25% — so they could use your help now.
For more information or to donate, visit: https://www.crowdrise.com/Soccerhood-Fall2015/fundraiser/elizabethsarkisian.
Alternatively, visit the Soccerhood bake sale at Maplewood’s DeHart Park on Burnett Avenue on Saturday, October 31, from 9:30 a.m. -1:30 a.m.
