Not every community is lucky enough to have the resources available to start or maintain a successful soccer program. Federal grants are available to help under-served communities make soccer available to all children who otherwise would not have access to youth soccer clubs and leagues. Through grants, such as Soccer Across America, kids can receive the instruction and training they need, and teams can also receive help with funding for equipment, administrative needs, and financial support for expansion. Various funding sources are available to those interested in starting a youth soccer program or with help funding an existing program.
Soccer Across America
US Youth Soccer's program, Soccer Across America, is designed to introduce the sport of soccer to youngsters who live in communities that either don't have soccer teams or leagues or can't keep existing programs afloat. Money helps with administrative needs, training of coaches, and the purchase of equipment. With adequate funding, programs can flourish and participants can reap the additional rewards of being physically active, such as increased self-esteem, and the pursuit of social and life skills.
US Soccer Foundation
Yet another source of funding for youth soccer is the US Soccer Foundation, an organization that awarded $2.5 million in grants for 2011. Since its inception in 1994, the U.S. Soccer Foundation has awarded more than $54 million to groups of all sizes throughout the United States for the construction of new fields, equipment purchase, and coaching needs.
PEP Programs
The Physical Education for Progress Program provides money to schools and communities through the After School Project. This national program was created in 1998 with the purpose of connecting youth in grades k-12 with community advocates who want to start, expand, or improve an existing after school program. Grants range from $100,000 to $500,000, as of February 2011, and money can be used for a variety of purposes, including equipment, hiring and training of staff, and curriculum development.
Corporate Grants
Corporate sponsorship is another means of funding. Responsible Sports Community Grants, through Liberty Mutual, awards grants in increments of $2,500 to communities across the country in recognition of their dedication to youth sports. Candidates take an online course and brief quiz to qualify for funding. Money can be used toward the purchase of equipment, uniforms, travel expenses -- whatever teams may need.
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