Grantee Spotlight – Starfinder
Since 2002, Starfinder‘s soccer, educational, and personal development programs have inspired young people from underserved communities to achieve success both on and off the field. Each year Starfinder helps 600 youth become healthier, more successful in school, and focused on the future through after school and summer programs. Programs include: Health & Physical Fitness which gets kids moving and helps them develop a positive identity as athletes and healthy habits that will benefit them throughout their lives; Emotional Wellbeing which helps kids build healthy, supportive relationships with coaches, mentors, and each other in an inclusive community and safe space; Future Focus, which supports youth in the development of practical and personal skills that will help them achieve their full potential. Starfinder cultivates confident learners with a growth mindset and broad understanding of their options; the marquee Senior Leaders Program provides soccer and fitness training, academic support, college guidance, leadership development and mentoring for up to 100 underserved youth ages 14-18 annually. Ninety-three percent of seniors have graduated high school and 93% matriculated into college.