The Upstate United FC (UUFC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating educational and athletic opportunities for young people in the Upstate region. By harnessing the power of soccer and education, we aim to inspire and support youth to achieve excellence both on the field and in the classroom. We work to increase youth soccer opportunities and access for all children in Onondaga County ,with a primary focus on under served youth and communities. We have seen the power soccer has to build character and unite communities -and every community deserves equitable access to every youth opportunity available. With our free, after-school soccer programs for at-risk youth and leading the drive for increased capacity to serve every youth in Onondaga County. According to the After school Alliance, more than 18 million children nationwide are in need of healthy, active after-school opportunities. The hours of 2-6PM are the most dangerous hours in a day for youth in communities with high poverty rates and fewer community resources.
Mission & Vision
Mission:
The Upstate United FC Education Foundation strives to empower youth by combining high-quality soccer programs with access to educational resources, mentorship, and community engagement. Through the intersection of sport and education, we aim to inspire young people to reach their fullest potential, both as athletes and as individuals.
Vision:
We envision a future where every child, regardless of background or economic status, has access to the resources and opportunities needed to succeed in education, athletics, and life. By promoting teamwork, discipline, leadership, and academic achievement, we seek to create well-rounded individuals who will become tomorrow’s leaders.
Core Values
- Inclusivity: We believe that all young people, regardless of their socioeconomic background, should have the opportunity to participate in high-quality soccer programs and receive the support they need to succeed academically.
- Education Through Sport: Soccer is more than just a game—it’s a tool for building character, teamwork, and discipline. We use the sport to teach valuable life skills that translate into academic and personal success.
- Community: We are committed to building strong, supportive communities around youth soccer. Our programs not only focus on individual development but also on fostering a sense of belonging, teamwork, and community pride.
- Leadership: Our foundation emphasizes the importance of developing leadership skills, both on the field and in everyday life. We mentor and guide young athletes to be leaders in their schools, families, and communities.
- Integrity: We operate with transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the highest ethical standards in everything we do.
Programs & Initiatives
The Upstate United FC Education Foundation offers a variety of programs designed to develop both athletes and students. Each program is designed to help young people grow in their soccer skills, academic performance, and personal character.
Soccer Clinics & Academies:
Our soccer clinics, training camps, and academies provide young athletes with high-level coaching in a supportive and structured environment. These programs focus on skill development, teamwork, and leadership, offering participants the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches and professional players.
Scholarships & Educational Support:
UUEF provides scholarships for underprivileged youth to participate in soccer programs, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent talented players from pursuing their athletic goals. Additionally, the Foundation offers tutoring, mentorship, and educational resources to help students succeed in their studies, balancing both athletic commitments and academic achievement.
College and Career Readiness:
As part of our commitment to youth development, UUEF offers college preparation workshops, career mentoring, and internship opportunities. We help young athletes explore potential career paths, apply for college admissions, and secure athletic scholarships, providing the tools and guidance they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.
Mentorship & Life Skills Training:
Through our mentorship programs, UUEF connects youth with positive role models who provide guidance, encouragement, and career advice. In addition, life skills workshops teach essential skills like time management, communication, and goal-setting, preparing young people for success in every area of their lives.
Community Engagement & Volunteerism:
UUEF emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community. We organize community service projects, team-building activities, and volunteer opportunities that teach young athletes the value of service, helping them develop into responsible, empathetic leaders.
Youth Leadership Programs:
Our leadership development programs provide youth with the opportunity to take on leadership roles within their soccer teams, community events, and UUEF initiatives. These programs empower young people to take initiative, make decisions, and influence positive change in their communities.
Health & Wellness Education:
UUEF also promotes health and wellness by offering workshops on physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health. We understand that maintaining a healthy body and mind is essential for both athletic success and personal growth, and we equip our youth with the tools they need to live a balanced, healthy life.
Impact & Outcomes
The Upstate United FC Education Foundation has a proven track record of making a significant impact on the lives of young people. Through our programs, we have seen remarkable outcomes, including:
- Increased Academic Achievement: Many of the students who participate in our educational programs report improved grades, enhanced study habits, and greater motivation to pursue higher education.
- Scholarship Success: UUEF has helped numerous young athletes secure athletic and academic scholarships, providing them with opportunities to attend top colleges and universities across the country.
- Improved Athletic Performance: Participants in our soccer programs develop not only athletic skill but also mental toughness, discipline, and resilience. These traits have helped many of our players succeed in competitive sports and beyond.
- Stronger Community Ties: By fostering a sense of teamwork, responsibility, and volunteerism, UUEF has helped build a stronger sense of community, where youth are actively involved in positive social change.
- Leadership Development: UUEF’s leadership programs have helped cultivate a new generation of leaders who are making a difference both on and off the field.
