2025 IMPACT REPORT 2025 IMPACT REPORT
FROM GROWTH TO GROUNDED IMPACT
Dear Stakeholders,
As we reflect on the past year, I am proud to share the Philadelphia Union Foundation’s 2025 Impact Report. This report captures more than outcomes and numbers, it reflects the continued evolution of our mission, our people, and our commitment to the communities we serve. Your belief in this work and your ongoing partnership remain essential to everything we accomplish.
Reflecting on 2025: A Year of Impact and Momentum.
In 2025, the Foundation focused on deepening impact, strengthening execution, and building sustainable systems across all four of our initiatives. With a clear strategy and a growing team, we moved from expansion to intentional delivery, ensuring that our programs not only reached more young people but created lasting opportunity and meaningful outcomes.
Key highlights from the year include:
Deeper Impact: Across HEADFIRST, iAM Project, Chester Union, and Safe Spaces, we increased program consistency, strengthened curriculum, and expanded access for thousands of young people and families.
Stronger Partnerships: We continued to grow and activate strategic partnerships that enhanced program quality, resources, and long-term sustainability.
Community Centered Focus: Every initiative was designed and delivered with the goal of creating pathways, confidence, and opportunity for the young people and communities we serve.
These achievements reflect the dedication of our staff, board, partners, and supporters. Together, we advanced our mission with intention, accountability, and heart.
Looking Ahead: Building for the Future
As we look to the future, our focus remains on thoughtful growth and long-term impact. In the coming year, we are committed to: Program Excellence: Continuing to refine delivery models, measure outcomes, and apply best practices across all initiatives. Strategic Growth: Expanding reach through targeted partnerships and community investment while maintaining program quality.
Sustainable Partnerships: Strengthening relationships with funders, corporate partners, and community leaders to support longterm success.
Achieving these goals depends on the continued support and trust of stakeholders like you. Your investment enables us to lead with purpose and build systems that last.
With Gratitude
Thank you to our partners, donors, board members, volunteers, and community champions. Your support fuels this work and makes our collective impact possible. Together, we are creating spaces, opportunities, and pathways that empower young people today and shape stronger communities for the future.
We are grateful for your continued commitment and excited for what lies ahead.
With sincere appreciation,
Alyssa Radu Executive Director Philadelphia Union Foundation
OUR MISSION
The Philadelphia Union Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity supported by the Philadelphia Union. Founded in 2011, the foundation works to make a real, lasting difference in local communities by creating safe, welcoming places to play the game we all love, soccer. Each year, the Philadelphia Union Foundation raises money to support youth programs, provide access and opportunity, build and improve places to play, bring communities together through soccer, and help the game grow across Chester, Philadelphia, and the Delaware Valley. At its core, the foundation uses soccer as a way to create positive change.
Since its founding, the foundation has launched four cornerstone initiatives: Safe Spaces, iAM Project, HEADFIRST, and Chester Soccer, providing children with vital life skills, coaching, equipment, and mentorship to succeed both on and off the field. Together, these programs have positively impacted countless lives, cultivating bright futures for participants while strengthening community connections.
Our mission is to inspire and support youth, especially those who may not always have access to opportunity, so they can grow into caring, confident, and responsible adults. We believe soccer has a unique power to bring people together and lift everyone up.
OUR STORY
The Philadelphia Union Foundation harnesses the power of soccer to open doors, build confidence, and create real opportunity for young people and communities that have historically been overlooked. Through our four core initiatives, HeadFirst, Chester Union Soccer, the iAM Project, and Safe Spaces, we provide access, mentorship, safe environments, and pathways for personal and athletic growth. Our work extends far beyond the field. We invest in mental fitness, education, leadership development, and community infrastructure, ensuring young people have the tools and support to reach their full potential. Soccer is our catalyst, but lasting impact is our purpose, strengthening individuals, uplifting communities, and building a future where every young person has the opportunity to succeed.
STRATEGIC PILLARS
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND LEADERSHIP
Providing comprehensive development opportunities for youth that combine sports, education, and mentorship. This pillar targets the holistic development of young individuals, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to become leaders in their communities.
The Philadelphia Union Foundation’s strategic pillars define where we focus our leadership, resources, and investment to create lasting impact. Each pillar aligns with one of our four signature initiatives and provides a clear framework to expand access, develop leaders, and strengthen communities. Together, they guide our work and ensure our efforts drive meaningful and measurable change..
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT
Building strong, reciprocal relationships with the community to foster ownership and pride. This pillar focuses on active participation and empowering community members through sports, education, and social events. The goal is to create a supportive network that uplifts everyone and encourages personal and collective growth.
SUSTAINABLE GROWTH AND INNOVATION
Ensuring the Philadelphia Union Foundation’s long-term sustainability through innovative funding strategies, partnerships, and program designs that adapt to changing community needs.
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
Promoting physical, mental, and social health through tailored programs. Recognizing the broad benefits of sports, this pillar aims to make health and wellness accessible to all, with a special focus on preventative measures and mental health awareness.
7th AND PENN CHESTER, PA
7th and Penn: Before
7th and Penn Safe Space
We have partnered with Love.Fútbol through Philly Plays, a city-wide initiative to build 26 fields by 2030, bringing communities together and creating safe, welcoming spaces where kids can play, grow, and thrive.
7th and Penn: Design
n 2025, the Philadelphia Union Foundation identified the future home of its first dedicated Safe Spaces for Chester Union Soccer, creating a permanent training and community hub for local youth. The the project will include a turf mini-pitch and three basketball courts, providing a safe, accessible space for Chester Union players to train and for families to gather and connect.
The Foundation committed $140,000 to help bring the more than $350,000 project to life, alongside support from additional funding partners. When completed in 2026, the space will feature professional-grade turf, solar-powered lighting, and team benches, ensuring year-round access and long-term sustainability. This investment strengthens the infrastructure supporting Chester youth and ensures Chester Union players have a place to call home.
Chester Soccer
Eliminates financial barriers by providing free access to structured soccer and development opportunities for youth in Chester
Uses soccer as a catalyst to build confidence, leadership, and life skills that extend beyond the field
The Chester Soccer Initiative provides free, high-quality soccer opportunities for youth in Chester, Pennsylvania, removing financial barriers and expanding access to the game. Through Chester Union, a philanthropic club serving boys and girls ages U8–U19, and the Foundation’s support of the Chester High School boys’ and girls’ teams, the initiative creates consistent pathways for participation and development. More than a sport, it builds confidence, discipline, and community pride, using soccer as a catalyst to create lasting impact for players, families, and the Chester community.
1,000+
PIECES OF NEW EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTED
Our official youth club
Serves over 300 youth annually, creating consistent access to mentorship, positive community engagement, and a clear pathway for continued development
Chester Union is composed of 75% firsttime players
“THESE PROGRAMS MEAN A LOT TO OUR FAMILY. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT SOCCER, IT’S ABOUT HELPING OUR KIDS STAY HEALTHY, CONFIDENT, AND SUPPORTED ON AND OFF THE FIELD.”
-Parent of a Chester Union Player
AMOUNT OF FIRSTTIME SOCCER PLAYERS
NUMBER OF TEAMS
This amount has doubled since last year
REGISTERED PLAYERS
A 54% increase since 2024
ACCESS TO THE GAME
We launched the HeadFirst: digital toolkit in 2023. In 2025, we expanded it, upgrading the platform and adding new tools and resources. That work culminated in the launch of myheadfirst.org, it generated more than 6,500 site visits in 2025.
MYHEADFIRST.ORG
HeadFirst is redefining youth sports by making mental fitness a core part of every athlete’s development. We connect mental well-being to performance, confidence, and life beyond the game, equipping players, parents, and coaches with practical tools, education, and access to support. By embedding mental fitness resources, screenings, and digital toolkits directly into the youth sports environment, HeadFirst is building more confident athletes, stronger support systems, and healthier communities.
TAKE THE PLEDGE
Created in May 2024, our “Every Story Matters” Campaign has over 2,400 pledges! It’s a commitment to support our young athletes and communities. Take the pledge and help change the game for mental health.
“IT HELPS KNOWING THE UNION FOUNDATION CARES ABOUT MORE THAN JUST SOCCER. TALKING ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH AND NUTRITION MADE ME FEEL SUPPORTED AS A PERSON, NOT JUST AN
Annual Mental Fitness Forum
Each May, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we host the HeadFirst Mental Health Forum, bringing together athletes, coaches, parents, and mental health professionals to elevate the conversation around mental fitness in sports. The forum creates a space for education, storytelling, and connection, helping reduce stigma and strengthen the support systems surrounding young athletes. In May 2025, we hosted our second annual forum at Subaru Park, featuring 15 expert panelists and an inspiring keynote address from Keith Wilford, and welcoming more than 100 members of the soccer community to engage, learn, and lead this important movement forward.
Education Training Sessions
In 2025, HeadFirst delivered mental fitness training to more than 400 players, equipping them with tools to build confidence and manage pressure. PCOM powered this program.
In 2026, we will expand to include coach and parent workshops, strengthening the support system around every athlete
Brian Dawkins
The iAM Project exists to close the opportunity gap by equipping motivated high school students with the support, exposure, and guidance needed to reach their full potential. Through mentorship, career exploration, and hands-on learning experiences, the program empowers students to grow in confidence, succeed academically, and build clear pathways to college, careers, and long-term success.
Inspirational Speaker Series
In April 2025, 900 students from Chester Charter Scholars Academy and Chester High School heard from NFL Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins, wwho delivered a powerful message on mental health, resilience, and leadership, inspiring students to overcome adversity and lead with purpose.
Cheldin Barlatt Rumer
Inspirational Speaker Series
In November 2025, 300 students from Chester Charter Scholars Academy heard from CEO & Executive Producer, This is it Network, who shared her journey as an immigrant from Sierra Leone and a leader in media and education, delivering an inspiring message focused on confidence, purpose, and pursuing one’s potential.
ASPIR INSPIRATION
100+
SCHOLARS CONNECTED WITH WORKING PROFESSIONALS
$32K
INVESTED IN SCHOLARSHIPS FOR OUR GRADUATING COHORT
Learn and Explore
63
NEW SCHOLARS ACCEPTED INTO OUR 2028 COHORT. OUR LARGEST CLASS EVER!
5 LEARN & EXPLORE WORKSHOPS PROVIDED
21 EVERY STUDENT EARNS A PAID INTERNSHIP AND RECEIVES A MACBOOK TO SUPPORT THEIR GROWTH
iAM Project students participated and traveled five Learn and Explore experiences, connecting with more than 100 professionals across law, healthcare, science, and business. These immersive opportunities gave students direct exposure to realworld careers, helping them expand their networks, explore future pathways, and see what is possible. Experiences included engagements with Malamut Law, the Bucks County Courthouse, Arkema, and the Vincera Institute.
ATION MENTORSHIP
Career Assist at
Neumann University
For the fourth consecutive year, Neumann University hosted iAM Project scholars for an immersive, four-day residential college experience. Students lived in campus dorms, dined in the university hall, and engaged directly with faculty and staff to explore academic programs and campus life. This hands-on experience gave scholars a clear, firsthand understanding of the college environment, helping them build confidence and make informed decisions about pursuing higher education after graduation.
The Philadelphia Union Front Office
Each summer, iAM Project scholars participate in a paid Mentorship and Internship Program, receiving a $750 stipend for their two-week experience at the Philadelphia Union front office. During this time, students gain firsthand exposure to careers in professional sports by shadowing Union professionals, attending meetings, and contributing to real projects. The program helps scholars build professional skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of workplace expectations. The experience culminates in a final presentation, where scholars showcase what they have learned and developed.
To support their transition beyond high school, every senior is paired with a dedicated mentor who guides them through the college, trade, or apprenticeship application process. In addition, each scholar receives a personal MacBook (valued at approximately $1,000), ensuring they have the technology and tools needed to succeed academically, explore career opportunities, and prepare for their future.
2,400
31
FUNDING THAT POWERS FREE ACCESS FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES
4
FIRST YEAR WITH ALL FOUR INITIATIVES OPERATING AT FULL SCALE
POSITIONING THE FOUNDATION AS A NATIONAL MODEL FOR IMPACT THROUGH SPORT
1
1,120,
50% FEMALE PARTICIPATION ACROSS FOUNDATION PROGRAMS
12,000+ YOUTH REACHED AND SUPPORTED ACROSS OUR COMMUNITY
A 290% YEAR-OVERYEAR INCREASE
PARTICIPANTS ACROSS INITIATIVES
2,069
$32K
30,500+
PLAYERS, PARENTS AND COACHES REACHED
SCHOLARSHIP FUNDED
359
191
363
HOURS OF TARGETED COMMUNITY DELIVERY
290% A 290% YEAR-OVER-YEAR INCREASE
FREE SESSIONS AND EVENTS DELIVERED
30,500+
BAGTAGS DISTRIBUTED TO DATE
PUF Theme Night & Mural Unveiling
At our Foundation Theme Night match, fans recorded messages about mental health in a phone booth, helping spark conversation and awareness. The event also featured the unveiling of a new mural at Subaru Park by artist Tiff Urquhart, celebrating our core initiatives and the Chester community.
FUNDRAISING SNAPSHOT
Locker Room Sale
Our annual Locker Room Sale raised $25,000. Fans had the unique opportunity to purchase player-worn gear from the First Team, Union II, and Academy, turning their support into direct investment.
RAISED IN ONE NIGHT
Gameday 50/50
Our game day 50/50 has brought a gross of 208K. Our largest and best year for 50/50.
PUF Membership
The Foundation’s membership program offers supporters the opportunity to give back through a monthly donation at a level of their choosing, while enjoying exclusive member perks. Through this program, we raised $44K toward our annual fundraising total, helping sustain and grow our community-focused initiatives.
GALA
On April 17, 2025, the Philadelphia Union Foundation hosted its annual Legends of Soccer Gala, raising more than $175,000 to support free programs and expand opportunities for youth across our community. The evening brought together supporters, partners, and civic leaders in a powerful show of commitment to our mission. We were proud to honor Akosua Watts with the Beyond the Pitch Award, Jacques Mason with the Legacy Rising Award, and Rusty and Janell Aaronson with the 12th Player Award, recognizing their exceptional leadership and lasting impact both on and off the field.
2025 DOOP Cup
On September 8, 2025, we hosted our annual DOOP Cup at Rolling Green Golf Club. The event sold out with 23 sponsors, welcomed 132 golfers and raised 207K. It was a day of great golf, delicious food, and friendship, all in support of our mission to build safer, healthier communities throughout our city.
LOOKING AHEADIN2026
HEADFIRST
Scaling mental fitness education to reach the entire athlete support network
Grow the Mental Fitness Forum, doubling its reach and introducing specialized sessions for players, parents, and coaches.
COMING IN
2026
A mental fitness podcast helping young athletes and their families navigate pressure, build confidence, develop resilience, and grow through the emotional challenges of sport. Redefining youth sports by addressing the mental and emotional realities athletes face every day
Stream on Apple, Spotify, Youtube
Chester Union Soccer
Activated league participation for Chester Union teams, strengthening development pathways.
Safe Spaces
Deliver the 7th & Penn Mini-Pitch, expanding safe, accessible spaces for youth and families.
Create the Love Union Cup as a lasting community tradition in partnership with LoveFútbol.
iAM Project
Introduce the iAM Project into the School District of Philadelphia, scaling pathways to college and careers.
Award $32,000 in Scholarships to Support Scholars’ Next Chapter.
Overall
Launch the World Cup Legacy Dinner in Summer 2026, uniting partners and community to celebrate impact and fuel future investment
Introduce an online store to generate sustainable funding and deepen supporter engagement
Building the Next Generation of Foundation Leadership Through a Young Professionals Board
Hayes Hunt Board Chairman
Jean Bley Board Member
OFDIRECTORS
BOARD
Brian Borradaile Board Member
Dineen Driskill Board Member
Nicole Fancher Board Member
Lorelei Gaus
Board Member
Jacob Guzman Board Member
Gregg Holgate
Board Member
Julie Lanzillo
Board Member
John Lawton
Board Member
Cindy Leibovitch
Board Member
Tim McDermott
Board Member
William Morgan
Board Member
Dr. Alexander Poor
Board Member
Chris Ruggiero
Board Member
Robert Smith
Board Member
Rebecca Stump
Board Member
Patrick Traynor
Board Member
Matt Wallach
Board Member
Jimmy White
Board Member
JAY & KELLY SUGARMAN FOUNDATION
IAM SPONSORS
HEADFIRST SPONSORS
CHESTER UNION SPONSORS
EVENT SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
EVENT PARTNERS & VENDORS
PARTNERS
EDUCATION PARTNERS
THANK YOU TO OUR FOUNDATION MEMBERS
Melody Alegria
Daniel Bankoske
Nathan Bennett
Eric Berue
Breton Bonnette
Brian Borradaile
Stephen Boswell
Craig Brewster
Matthew Brinker
Steve Brown
Adrienne Buck
Melissa Dunoff
Michael Ellis
Nicole Fancher
Jonathan Fischer
Jon Foden
Rachael Frazier
Erik Frykholm
Lorelei Gaus
Hayes Hunt
Elizabeth Ingram
Angela Jorden
Ivan Joseph
Brian Joseph
Bob King
James Korman
Mark & Lori Kuller
Conrad LeBlanc III
Lena Leff
Cindy Leibovitch
Bronwyn Martin
Kevin Martin
Allan Matyger
Dyan McAlister
John Mcclung
Deisy (Jesus) Morales
Katherine (Kate) Nelson
Sal Nistico
Aaron Nye
Nathanael Overly
Stephen Perez
Alex Poor
Theresa Pratt
Amanda "Mandii" Pratt
Eric Roberts
Andrew Rosenthal
Frank Ross
Bryan Sangkavasi
Pamela Schwartz
Diane Sharp
Stacy Smiriglio
Walt Smith
Jeremy Sticker
Kevin Sullivan
Brian Sullivan
Sean Sullivan
William Surkis
Emiliano Tatar
Michael Thomas
Lindsey Timberman
Meghan Tuohy
Michael Van Sant
Michael Voronov
Matthew Warner
Jay Wimberg
Christopher Windham
Gloria Winters
William Wright
Davis Wright
Lisa Yoest
The Modern Hypocrites Inc.
JOIN
OUR MEMBERSHIP CLUB
The Foundation’s membership program invites supporters to join our community by making a monthly donation at a level that works for you, unlocking exclusive member perks while directly supporting our mission. In 2025, the program raised $43K toward our annual fundraising goal, helping sustain and expand our community-focused initiatives.
FOUNDATION STAFF
RADU
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
MARIAM GHOBRIAL
MANAGER
COORDINATOR
