My Nonprofit Reviews

Soccer Without Borders is the most fulfilling volunteer experience I've ever had. I've coached youth soccer in other leagues, have tutored ESL students, and have worked with DC high school kids to help prepare them for college, but my time with SWB is truly incomparable. The coaches are incredibly welcoming, encouraging, and kind, and the kids - while they can at times be a handful! - bring me so much joy. It's a privilege to get to be a part of their journey growing up and playing soccer in the US. As a volunteer, I help run drills at practice, and come to the games when I can to cheer them on. It's great that there are uniforms (jerseys, shorts, socks) provided for all of the players and real league games with official referees and scorekeeping - it's not just scrimmages.

Every time I'm with the team, I have interactions with the kids that make me laugh or warm my heart. That's not to say it isn't often hard too - they've got a lot of energy, and the group I help out with (U-14 boys) at times likes to test the limits with authority. But that's all part of it, and every moment is worth it. The players seem to really enjoy coming to practices and games, and have really good relationships with SWB staff. Highly recommend :)