I got the go ahead from Mrs L to devote some extra time to exploring the creation of a new NonProfit organization. I have received a couple of commitments for start up funding for it as well. The rough plan is a nonprofit designed to ensure that all kids in the area have the ability to play soccer at the appropriate level (rec/club) regardless of family finances. It can be a very expensive undertaking and we've dealt with issues as they've come up, but in a mostly by the seat of your pants manner. This year a couple of us stepped up to pay the fees for a new kid from a family going through divorce and can't pay the expenses for the year. Helping him is all well and good, but he isn't the only one out there.
So the plan is to partner with as many of the local clubs and rec leagues as possible to make them aware of available assistance for kids that need a little help covering tuition and training fees.
The second arm is an equipment exchange center. No kid should be showing up to practice or a game with a broken styrofoam cup stuffed in his socks to fulfill the requirement for shinguards. Proper soccer pads and shoes aren't just meant to make you look cool, they are designed for functional safety reasons.
Every kid who wants to play should be able to play with all the appropriate equipment.
It will be a lot of work, but I'm starting the planning now. and loving it.
