Breaking Barriers: Expanding Access to Youth Sports
At the YMCA of Lincoln, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the joy and benefits of youth sports—regardless of their financial situation. In 2024, we launched an initiative to give 4th and 5th grade boys and girls from Pershing Elementary Community Learning Center (CLC) the opportunity to participate in the YMCA Youth Sports recreational soccer league.
Thanks to the generous support of Lincoln Industries, 40 kids discovered a new appreciation for soccer, forming friendships, gaining confidence, and staying active in a supportive team environment.
This initiative was designed to increase access to affordable sports and remove obstacles that prevent kids from participating. It focuses on three key priorities:
1. Eliminating Financial Barriers
No child should miss out on sports due to cost. The YMCA provide financial assistance enabling the participants to join the YMCA Youth Sports program without the financial strain. This support also helped cover the cost of jerseys, ensuring every player could fully take part.
2. Solving Transportation Challenges
Transportation has been a hurdle for many families. This initiative provided round-trip transportation from Pershing to YMCA Wright Park, ensuring that logistics never stood in the way of participation.
3. Equipping Kids for Success
Nothing feels worse than showing up unprepared. Every participant received water bottles, soccer socks, shin guards, and bags, so they had everything they needed to play. A community collection drive also provided gently-used cleats, making sure every child had the right gear to take the field.
The Impact
The impact of this program has been nothing short of incredible. It didn’t just give kids a chance to play soccer—it strengthened the entire Pershing community. Teachers attended games, classmates made posters, and parents formed new connections, both within and beyond the program.
Beyond the field, students developed leadership skills, confidence, and teamwork, creating friendships that extend far beyond the season. This initiative has truly been a game-changer!
We are hopeful that this amazing partnership with the YMCA and future funding will allow us to expand the program to serve even more kids in our community.
Together, we can build a stronger, healthier Lincoln—one game at a time.
Want to Help?
If you’re interested in learning how you can help more kids gain access to YMCA Youth Sports, please contact Todd Johnson at tjohnson@ymcalincoln.org.