CONNECTICUT UNITED YOUTH FOUNDATION

Kickstarting Life Success for Connecticut’s Youth, Scoring for Our Communities

Kickstarting Life Success for Connecticut’s Youth,The ConnecticutUnited Youth Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of Connecticut youth across economic backgrounds and strengthening the quality of life across Connecticut communities. As the charitable arm of CT United – a Bridgeport-based MLS-affiliated professional soccer team that will begin play in 2026 – the Foundation harnesses the power of education, sports and civic partnership to create lasting positive change throughout

OUR BELIEFS

We believe that strong communities and youth development reinforce one another — but each can require its own kind of investment.

For young people, education, organized play and adult mentorship are the building blocks of critical thinking, social skills and practical decision-making, and are associated with a wide range of near-term and long-term positive outcomes
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For communities, safe environments, shared spaces and collaboration across individuals, businesses and public institutions create environments in which young people can reach their potential, quality of life is strong and civic pride flourishes.
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We believe professional sports are in a unique position to influence young people and strengthen communities by providing aspirational role models, facilitating connections across traditional boundaries, and uniting kids, parents and the broader community around common causes.

77% of children in households that earn less than $25k do not play sports¹

Studies consistently show a relationship between organized sports participation and academic performance ²

Lack of quality apparel and gear increases injury risk for kids from low-income homes and erodes self-esteem

Play facilities in underserved communities are often poorly maintained and unsafe, if they exist at all

CORE STRATEGIES

Invest in positive outcomes for youth by supporting education, mentoring, and access to organized play, with an emphasis on traditionally underserved areas.
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Build stronger communities by improving access to safe, vibrant public spaces and by supporting initiatives that bring people and organizations together around shared goals.
Be both a leader and a valued partner – work with stakeholders to design and launch our own programs and contribute to the efforts of like-minded individuals and organizations.
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Leverage our Stadium and Team as assets to progressConnecticut United Youth Foundation’s mission and to amplify the impact of our support.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES AND AREAS OF FOCUS

Following are initiatives in which Connecticut United YouthFoundation is currently engaged or actively seeking to support. The Foundation is open to aligning with other programs and initiatives consistent with its mission as resources allow.

INCREASING SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Chronic absenteeism remains a major challenge forConnecticut schools. The Foundation seeks to partner with educators and community organizations to promote attendance, motivation, and engagement –because presence is the first step toward progress.

ENHANCING STUDENT EXPERIENCES

FREE YOUTH SOCCER ACADEMY

CT United Academy is the state’s only free youth soccer academy. Opening in 2024, the Academy offers elite coaching and training to the state’s most talented young players at no cost. Initially consisting of U14 and U16 teams,CT United Academy added an additional team in 2025. Academy teams compete inMLS NEXT, the premier platform for youth player development in North America.Further expansion is planned, including girls’ teams by 2027. To date, over1000 youth athletes from every corner of Connecticut have registered for tryouts. Learn more at ctunited.com/academy.

YOUTH GEAR INITIATIVE

The Foundation seeks to help more children play safely and confidently by partnering with communities and businesses to provide durable, high-quality soccer gear to players who otherwise could not afford it. Access to proper equipment builds esteem, prevents injury, and removes visible divides between teams.

ACCESSIBLE YOUTH SOCCER MODEL

Youth soccer can cost families thousands of dollars a year, putting high-level play out of reach for many talented athletes. To expand opportunity, the Foundation will introduce a new competitive tier within the Academy that offers strong players access to elite training and competition. Participation will be subsidized so that qualified players, regardless of financial means, can benefit from the program.

PARTNERSHIPS FOR COMMUNITY WELL BEING

Beyond soccer, the Foundation supports initiatives that promote physical and mental wellness, inclusion, and civic engagement. By aligning with organizations that share these goals, Connecticut United Youth Foundation helps communities build the resources they need to thrive on their own terms.