Soccer Without Borders Marks 20 Years of Impact

Thanks to the generosity of 300 attendees at the anniversary gala, $250k was raised for immigrant and newcomer youth worldwide.

ALAMEDA, CA – Soccer Without Borders (SWB) celebrated its 20th anniversary on May 2, bringing together 300 supporters, partners, staff and alumni for an evening honoring two decades of impact through the global game of soccer. 

Held in celebration of SWB’s work with newcomer youth and families, the event raised more than $250,000 through ticket sales, sponsorships, a live auction and more. Funds raised will support SWB programming across the Bay Area, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, as well as international programs in Uganda and Nicaragua. 

The evening welcomed longtime supporters alongside many new friends of the organization, with representation from across SWB’s national and international network of support services. 

SWB was also recognized by the Oakland Mayor’s Office for 20 years of service and impact in the Bay Area community. 

“Twenty years of impact is momentous, but this celebration was about so much more,” said Jennifer Tepper, Executive Director of Soccer Without Borders. “It was a reminder of what can happen when communities invest in young people and create the spaces where they feel connected and empowered to lead. Seeing our alumni, participants, staff and supporters in one room together was deeply meaningful and I cannot wait to see what the next 20 years will bring.” 

In her keynote remarks at the celebration, Dr. Hajar Abufazl – a Beyond Sport award winner, former co-captain of the Afghanistan Women’s National Soccer Team, and current SWB coach – spoke to the power of creating spaces where young people feel seen and supported. 

“Young people don’t need everything to change,” said Abufazl. “They just need one space. One team. One coach. One moment where they are seen and supported. That is what we create together. Not just through soccer, but through the spaces that soccer makes possible.” 

SWB Founder Ben Gucciardi reflected on the organization's growth from a single local program to its transformation into a global community serving thousands of young people and families. 

“Twenty years ago, Soccer Without Borders started with a simple belief that soccer could help us reach kids and families where they are, and create opportunity for youth navigating difficult transitions," said Gucciardi. “What we celebrated at the gala was the incredible community that has grown from an idea, an idea built by our young people, families, coaches, staff and every supporter who continues to show what this mission makes possible.” 

Founded in 2006, SWB uses soccer as a vehicle for positive change, helping newcomer and immigrant youth find confidence, belonging and pathways to opportunity on and off the pitch. 

Learn more about SWB and find out how to get involved. 

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About SWB: 

Since 2006, SWB has combined soccer with education and community-building activities in year-round programs that authentically shift outcomes for young people. Recognized globally with the FIFA Diversity Award, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Sports Award, and the Wharton School of Business’ Lipman Family Prize, SWB continues to champion inclusion and empowerment. For more information, visit www.soccerwithoutborders.org