In May, Republic FC and its partners recognized Mental Health Awareness Month by actively promoting open discussions about mental well-being, sharing resources with club staff, fans, and student athletes. Out in the community, the club hosted special camps & clinics, and participated in an annual give-a-thon that raised over $13 million for local non-profits.
Strive for 45 – Striving and Thriving
The Strive for 45 pilot program wrapped up, completing six weeks of P.E. takeovers that included fun and exciting soccer drills, nutritional education, and additional healthy resources. With weekly visits to 5 local schools, nearly 300 students tracked their activity with pedometers, helping Republic FC and UC Davis Health to evaluate and refine the program to encourage daily physical activity.
Keeping the Conversation Going around Mental Health
Republic FC hosted an intimate opportunity for soccer players at Inderkum High School to discuss the pressures and challenges they face on and off the field. The conversation was led by Dr. Mondo Gonzalez and Republic FC forward Kieran Phillips, who discussed the importance of destigmatizing mental health concerns – especially among athletes – and best practices for prioritizing mental health for one’s self and teammates to reach peak athletic performance.
Later in the month, former Republic FC assistant coach Chris Malenab stopped by the front office to educate staff on the common risk factors and warning signs of suicide to keep others safe. A suicide attempt survivor himself, Malenab recently completed training to lead the “Talk Saves Lives” community-based presentation created by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
Read more about the program and Malenab’s drive to share this life-saving information >>
Kickin it in the Community
With special guest coaches Jonathan Ricketts and Sebastian Herrera on hand, Republic FC teamed up with Wilton Rancheria to host a free youth soccer clinic for tribe members ahead of Native American Heritage Night – coming up on June 29th.
The club later brought some serious “Girl Power” to a free all-girls soccer clinic. Led by a group of all female coaches, over 50 participants had the opportunity to work on their skills in a fun and empowering environment.
Big Day of Giving (May 2)
Each year, thousands of Sacramentans come together to give back to the region’s dedicated nonprofits on the Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s Big Day of Giving.
To help multiply the impact of individuals, dozens of local companies and philanthropists provide additional donations through prizes. This year, Republic FC sponsored the “916 Prize” randomly drawing two lucky organizations – Ligons Scholarship Fund and the Auburn Interfaith Food Closet to receive a $500 boost at 9:16 a.m. and 9:16 p.m.. With the extra donation from Republic FC, the Food Closet was able to surpass it’s fundraising goal for the annual give-a-thon.
With nearly 30,000 donors, the May 2 Big Day of Giving raised $13.2 million for over 800 non-profits.
Club honored as an MVP at San Juan Unified School District’s annual “Most Valuable Partner” Celebration
To kick off the month, Republic FC was one of 70 community partners honored at San Juan Unified School District’s Most Valued Partners (MVP) Reception. The event honors organizations that are committed to engaging and connecting with students, families, and staff throughout the school year.
Last year, the club opened its 12th futsal court at San Juan’s Sylvan Middle School, the first court located directly on a school site to provide an additional resource for P.E. teachers and students to stay active and enjoy the game.
Community Tickets & Donations
This month, Republic FC distributed free tickets to over 70 non-profit organizations, creating meaningful gameday experiences for 1,600 people. The club also provided $10,000 worth of in-kind support for 74 community events throughout the region.
