In the vibrant world of youth soccer and education, the Soccer Foundation of Charlotte (SFC) emerged as a powerhouse, blending the joy of the game with literacy initiatives for local students. The journey began when SVP crossed paths with Katie Phillips during SEED20 in 2019 when the organization was known as QC Scores. Originally focused on providing free soccer equipment and gameplay for students in Title One Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools, the organization underwent a transformative shift, incorporating reading time with coaches and distributing free books weekly to enhance literacy skills. Renamed the Soccer Foundation of Charlotte, SFC experienced a surge in impact, serving over 450 students from 18 schools and providing 10,000 books as of last year. 

However, with great success came the challenge of meeting escalating demand. Katie, recalling the support received during her SEED20 pitch, turned to SVP for assistance in analyzing and strengthening each component of SFC. In January 2022, SFC became an SVP Charlotte Investee, securing not only annual unrestricted funding for the next three years but also the support of a dedicated Lead Partner Team comprising Bill Martin, Christian Dieckmann, and Michael Sinsheimer. 

Navigating the complexities of organizational growth, the partnership began with SVP conducting a “14 Attributes of a Healthy Nonprofit” assessment and a gap analysis. Bill Martin emphasized the importance of establishing trust and strategic priorities early on in the extended partnership. Biweekly check-ins have become a cornerstone, providing space for SFC to voice needs, discuss challenges, and collaboratively strategize with their SVP Partners. Michael Sinsheimer, despite being a first-time Lead Partner, highlighted the valuable support and guidance from his team. 

Only seven months into the partnership, the collaboration is already yielding impressive results. SFC expanded its board, recruited new members, hired additional staff, and attracted new sponsors and foundations. Leveraging their increased organizational capacity, SFC successfully launched a pilot summer soccer series with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Libraries, impacting 300 students over six weeks with soccer, tournaments, school supplies, books, and even haircuts. Additionally, students and their families have the exciting opportunity to attend Charlotte FC games. 

This dynamic partnership exemplifies the transformative potential when nonprofits and experienced partners unite with a shared goal of creating positive change in the community. Goals on the field and organizational goals, both being achieved with a winning spirit! #SVPCharlotte #SVPInvestee #SEED20 # SoccerFoundationofCharlotte