The DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) continues to make a positive impact in youth development and drug misuse prevention through its ongoing partnerships. For the second consecutive year, DEAEF has joined forces with Toca FC, a Kansas City-based soccer club, to deliver a soccer program aimed at fostering personal growth, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles. This initiative is a continuation of Operation Engage Year III programming, expanding its reach and deepening its commitment to the local community.

Soccer as a Positive Outlet in Olathe, Kansas

This 10-week program, hosted in Olathe, Kansas, serves 20 children from the surrounding Kansas City area. With practice kicking off in October, 2024, these young athletes are immersed in soccer training that emphasizes not only physical skill but also character development and community building. Through DEAEF’s support, the soccer program has provided a positive outlet for local youth, helping to build strong foundations that deter them from negative influences.

A Scholarship Success Story

One notable success from last year’s program is a student who received a scholarship to continue their soccer journey with Toca FC. After demonstrating commitment, respect, and potential throughout the program, this student earned a spot in Toca FC’s competitive soccer program. The scholarship, funded by DEAEF, ensures that the student can continue developing their skills and benefiting from the structure and mentorship that soccer provides.

Coach Alec Lemmon, one of Toca FC’s dedicated coaches, highlighted the significance of such opportunities. ”I’m also concerned if kids don’t find positive social outlets, it’s only a matter of time before they get introduced to less positive social environments or groups,” Lemmon noted. This scholarship represents a life-changing opportunity, opening doors for the student to remain involved in a sport that positively influences their growth and development.

Toca FC’s Approach to Youth Sports

Toca FC’s coaches bring a deep-rooted philosophy to their coaching, viewing soccer as more than just a game. Their mission centers around using soccer to teach valuable life skills and develop strong character. “We coach to inspire kids and families to become remarkable leaders through our values of faith, family, and fútbol,” says a representative from Toca FC. The focus on nurturing character over winning aligns with DEAEF’s goal to provide kids with positive, enriching environments that deter them from drug misuse.

The club’s philosophy acknowledges the importance of competition, but it also prioritizes the development of players, families, and coaches through sportsmanship and teamwork. “Winning isn’t the problem, but making winning the ultimate goal is,” says a Toca FC coach. By using the pursuit of winning as a means to build character, Toca FC ensures that every player learns valuable lessons about leadership, resilience, and collaboration.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Partnership

As the soccer program progresses, DEAEF and Toca FC are laying the foundation for continued growth. With each year, they aim to involve more students and extend the reach of the program, ensuring that more children in the Kansas City area have access to positive activities and mentorship. The success of the scholarship student highlights the powerful impact that this program can have on a young person’s life, creating opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach.

This partnership with Toca FC highlights the DEA Educational Foundation’s commitment to making a lasting impact on the communities it serves, both by encouraging physical health and by nurturing the emotional and social well-being of young athletes. Together with Operation Engage III, the DEAEF and Toca FC are not only helping kids sharpen their soccer skills but also guiding them toward brighter futures, free from the dangers of drug misuse.