The loss that mobilized a movement
Our original purpose behind our founding and current work is to save and improve lives through soccer. That was the purpose behind our founding following the violent death of student Eric Dixon in 2009 at the hands of fellow student and it has remained the motivation for everything we’ve done since. We started as an organization for Kensington teenagers in 2010 and have expanded to serve many younger children and a broader community, but we’ve maintained a strong focus on teens and have since formed adult programs to serve our players as they got older. Those original teens are now grown and form the core of our adult violence prevention and intervention programs both as staff and as participants.
Mission
Our mission is to help each of our teens and young adults to gain the conflict de-escalation skills, self-awareness, hope, and empathy to not want to harm others. It also means helping them find jobs, mental health services, education, food, and housing so they are better able to stay on that path. We accomplish all of the above by harnessing the powerful potential of sports, relationships, real world grounded mentorship, and positive peer support.
“Our goal is to reach, engage, and build relationships with teens and young adults most at risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of violence and then guide them towards a positive path. We challenge them to make better choices and we train and support them so they have the tools to stay on that path.”
- Jim Hardy
Soccer for Peace Fair Play Statement:
Before each game, players recite this statement to lift up the importance of teamwork, mutual respect, and playing with integrity and honesty.
“At Kensington Soccer Club, we champion unity, respect, and excellence. Embracing diversity and inclusion, we ensure a safe, non-violent environment for all. Each player’s dedication and effort fuel our collective success. Together, let’s honor our values and strive for greatness on and off the field.”
News and Stories on Gun Violence Prevention
Teen & Young Adult Perspectives and Stories
Youth Speaking Out Against Violence
Our youth are very attuned to the impacts of inequality in shaping their daily challenges. Over the year, our partner organizations and other local media agencies have highlighted some of our pensive youth. Overall these videos highlight the work we do year-round to encourage our youth to see themselves as actors and leaders in local change.
Features on Youth Activism
Staff
Meet the people who make our Gun Violence Prevention Initiative impactful and community driven. Brianna Banks, Intervention and Prevention Coordinator. Jakeema Burton, Director of Teen and Adult Programs, Carlos Acosta, Program and Facilities Director.
