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Youth Impacts
When young people have a team behind them, anything seems possible.
SWB uses soccer as a powerful tool to create belonging, promote wellness, and open pathways for youth to thrive–on and off the pitch.
By the Numbers
The global displacement crisis has surpassed a projected 117.3 million people worldwide. It continues to be one of the most urgent social issues of the 21st century. Refugee and asylum-seeking youth are fleeing some of the world's most challenging and protracted conflicts, seeking safety, stability, and opportunities to build new home.
Soccer can be a home. For newcomer youth, the world's game is a powerful tool for healing and connection.
Over the past 20 years, Soccer Without Borders has served:
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Program Outcomes
Our evidence-based program design was born out of thousands of hours of programming, hundreds of conversations, and countless pages of research. We synthesized it all into our Theory of Change that puts young people at the center, surrounds them with supportive peers, coaches, and mentors, and draws a throughline from our inputs and activities to our vision of a more inclusive and equitable world, where all youth reach their inherent potential.
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Our program model combines soccer practices and games with educational support and community-building activities focused on whole person youth development. Our programs are trauma-informed and designed to create a sense of belonging, build individual agency, and provide avenues for every youth to feel valued and contribute.
Youth Survey Snapshot (Fiscal Year 2024)
The impact of SWB programs extend far beyond the pitch. They promote a sense of self-efficacy and agency that benefits self, family, and community—building the skills to manage adversity and combat the stigmas that far too often surrounds mental health.
98%
Youth participants who report that they "feel comfortable using English while at Soccer Without Borders."
93%
Youth leaders who say they can "manage difficulties and challenges positively, and use them as learning experiences."
85%
Youth participants noting "increased confidence in handling challenges both inside and outside of SWB"
We cultivate youth leadership and employability, preparing young people with the guidance and opportunities they need to combat cycles of poverty and thrive as future leaders.
93%
Youth leaders who say that they have "set ambitious goals and know how to achieve them."
88%
Youth leaders who say that in the future they would "like to be a coach or a leader."
Last year, 265 youth leaders contributed 1300+ hours, with 84% of those hours paid youth in program support roles, directly building their professional experience.
The impact of SWB programs extend far beyond the pitch. They promote a sense of self-efficacy and agency that benefits self, family, and community—building the skills to manage adversity and combat the stigmas that far too often surrounds mental health.
100%
Youth participants who report that they "feel safe at Soccer Without Borders."
100%
Youth participants who say that they are "accepted, valued, and respected for who I am at SWB."
Over 1,326 community events hosted last year engaged families, schools, and local partners, deepening social connection and community trust.
Get Involved
Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re looking to volunteer, give, or connect with local programs, there are so many ways to support underserved youth and bring our mission to life.
