GRASSP is a free, school-based program to engage at-risk students through soccer to identify with, connect to, participate in, learn from and enjoy school – as well as develop good character & good decision-making skills for life.

GRASSP started with 4 schools in 2010 and has since impacted thousands of Salem-Keizer students with soccer programming at no cost to families. GRASSP has seen programs in more than 20 schools in the Salem-Keizer area since it’s origin.

CHECK THE STATS:

• 23 Title 1 Schools participating in GRASSP (500+ kids)

• 100% of schools agree that GRASSP improves student attendance, engagement, and behavior

“GRASSP and their incredible team of coaches provide students with a holistic learning experience that enhances both their physical and socio-emotional well-being, laying the foundation for their future success both on and off the field.”

- Olga Cobb, SKSD Deputy Superintendant

We believe every kid has the right to participate in sport, regardless of their socioeconomic background. That’s why we do everything we can to eliminate financial barriers for participation in all our programs.

Since 2011, CFC has given over $1,250,000 in need-based scholarships to families at or below the poverty level.

CHECK THE STATS:

• More than 1/2 of players at CFC are at or below the poverty line and qualify for federal assistance programs such as OHP, SNAP, TANF

• 1,500+ of players each year receive a scholarship to participate.

• 10+ players per year move on from CFC’s programs as the first in their family to go to college

Soccer brings our diverse community together. It has fostered lifetime friendships and most importantly, it is helping in building a better community with better citizens.

- Ricardo Baez, Don Pancho Authentic Mexican Foods

The Capital FC TOPSoccer Program serves players experiencing disabilities in our community, regardless of classification. In support with the Oregon Youth Soccer Association (OYSA), we work to provide the opportunity to access the amazing sport of soccer for all in our community. Our inclusive service is provided by an experienced coaching staff and volunteer buddies for individualized mentorship. Adaptive equipment and ability-based sessions are just some of the ways our program meets the needs of our athletes.

CHECK THE STATS:

• 50 athletes served annually

• 100 volunteers providing support as buddies throughout the year.

Our nationally-recognized Youth Referee Academy (YRA) allows youth officials in the greater Salem area an opportunity to gain valuable workplace skills through refereeing. Our youth - many of whom this is their first ever job - gain and build workplace skills, leadership skills and communication skills via officiating.

CHECK THE STATS:

• 13 - the minimum age for entrance into the program.

• 65 youth referees currently enrolled in the Youth Referee Academy

• 800 games per year refereed by kids in our program

In partnership with Salem For Refugees, CFC supports All Nations Soccer, a program for Salem’s new neighbors from around the world. Through weekly training and incorporation into league play, the program helps use soccer as a way to integrate kids and families into their new community, learn the language, and thrive.

Soccer is the world’s game, and you don’t need to know the language to create community. These community relationships that start on the field translate into the building blocks for healthy relationships, jobs for our new neighbors, and important connections at school.

CHECK THE STATS:

• 100 Participants each week playing at CFC from age 13-25

• 80 kids at CFC’s New Neighbors Soccer Camp

• 15+ Countries and Languages represented!