IMMOKALEE, Fla-- The Immokalee Soccer School & Academy received a generous surprise donation from Champions of Charity. The organization gave the soccer school a check for $4500 along with more than 60 new soccer balls.
"It's a blessing to be able to give back to the community around us," said Champions of Charity founder Andrew Nussbaum.
For the recipients soccer is more than just a sport.
"You learn new things and make new friends," said student Jessica Hernandez.
More than 70 boys and girls ages 6 to 16 are part of the Immokalee Soccer School and Academy. It's a nonprofit started in 2011 that gives kids of farm workers a place to learn and grow outside of school.
"We run during the school year and then budget allowing, we have summer programing," said program director Carrie Vollentine.
On Saturday, Champions of Charity surprised the academy with a $4500 check and brand new soccer balls after hearing about current needs.
"Now that we have new soccer balls it will be easier to practice with and not have to worry about any balls missing or flat," said student Hernandez.
The money is going towards renting classroom space. Currently, these kids spend half their time playing soccer and the other half studying.
The academic portion was added in 2014 after realizing the kids could use some extra help outside the classroom. Following the academy's values of discipline, respect, love and learning it's all about letting the kids have a fun childhood, but also preparing them for a bright future.
"Our kids are fully capable of going to college and living a life of their dreams. So we are here to get them to believe that in themselves," said Vollentine.
For more information: CLICK HERE
For more information about Champions of Charity: CLICK HERE
