South Bronx United (SBU) is a nonprofit youth development organization with a mission of using soccer as a tool to uplift youth and families in the South Bronx. More than 1,700 young people – beginning at age two and all the way through young adults navigating college and careers – will have participated in programs this year in the classroom, on the soccer field, and in the community.

I joined SBU as a Coach-Mentor and the Girls Advancement Lead in October of 2024 after two years in public policy research and 20 years of playing soccer. It has been an honor to give back to the sport that gave me so much. Most notably, being responsible for the development of young players has been transformative for me. The learning is truly mutual and the challenge to create an environment that begets hard work and fun is one that demands more preparation and intention than any that I’ve faced.

As the Girls Advancement Lead, I try to integrate gender equity into everything we do at SBU. I am grateful to work with people who understand that Girls Advancement is a good thing for everyone – a framework that will have a ripple effect beyond the girls in our program.

This year came with its highlights and, of course, its challenges, including losing most of our soccer equipment in a fire. Your support this year can help us secure storage space and replace our equipment.

I am a Team Captain for the #Powerof11 Campaign because I believe that sport can change a kid's life and that this opportunity should be available to all. I am asking for your support in our mission to build a safe place where every child can play.