Anacostia Pilot Program
Bringing comprehensive youth development to one of Washington, D.C.'s most historically underserved communities through soccer, mentorship, and education.
20+
Youth Participants
10+
Mentors & Volunteers
50+
Training Sessions
100%
Community Partners
Program Overview
The Anacostia Pilot Program represents SOS's first comprehensive implementation of our youth development model. Located in one of Washington, D.C.'s most historically underserved communities, this program serves as both an opportunity to make immediate impact and a testing ground for our approach.
Anacostia faces significant challenges including high poverty rates, limited access to quality youth programming, and gaps in educational and athletic opportunities. These factors make it an ideal location for SOS to demonstrate the transformative potential of integrated youth development.
Our goal is not just to provide programming, but to build a sustainable model that can be replicated in other underserved communities across the D.C. metro area and beyond.
Program Components
Our integrated approach addresses the whole child through four interconnected pillars.
Soccer Training
Weekly high-quality soccer training sessions focused on fundamentals, teamwork, and athletic development.
Mental Performance
Sports psychology and mental skills training to build confidence, resilience, and emotional regulation.
Academic Support
Tutoring, homework help, and academic mentorship to reinforce the connection between athletics and education.
Mentorship
One-on-one and group mentorship providing consistent, high-trust relationships with positive role models.
Program Timeline
Our phased approach to building sustainable impact.
Community Assessment & Partnership Building
Completed- Identified Anacostia as target community based on need and opportunity
- Established partnerships with local schools and community organizations
- Recruited and trained initial cohort of mentors and coaches
- Secured facilities and resources for programming
Program Launch
In Progress- Enrolled first cohort of 20+ youth participants ages 8-15
- Launched weekly soccer training sessions
- Implemented mental performance curriculum
- Began family engagement and support programming
Growth & Evaluation
Upcoming- Expand to serve additional youth in the community
- Conduct comprehensive outcome evaluation
- Document lessons learned and best practices
- Develop model for replication in other communities
Early Outcomes
While the program is still in its early stages, we're already seeing positive indicators across our key outcome areas.
Youth participants demonstrate improved soccer skills and athletic confidence
Participants show growth in mental performance indicators including goal-setting and resilience
Strong family engagement and satisfaction with programming
Successful partnerships with local schools and community organizations
Mentor and coach retention and development
Lessons Learned
Community Trust Takes Time
Building genuine relationships with families and community members is essential and cannot be rushed. We've learned to prioritize consistent presence and follow-through.
Integration Is Key
The interconnection between soccer training, mental performance, and academic support creates a more powerful impact than any single component alone.
Family Engagement Matters
Engaging families as partners in their children's development amplifies outcomes and creates sustainability beyond our direct programming.
Flexibility Within Structure
Having a clear curriculum and approach while remaining flexible to community needs and individual circumstances is essential for success.
Support the Anacostia Program
Help us expand our impact in Anacostia and bring this model to more underserved communities. Your support makes a direct difference in young lives.