Community

Meet this Month’s Indomitable Educators

Each month this season, Republic FC and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union are teaming up to highlight and honor the region’s dedicated and deserving teachers and school employees. Representing Two Rivers Elementary School from Natomas Unified School District, this month’s Indomitable Educators are Lorrie Lewis and Ivonne Bojorquez.

From Left: Republic FC Director of Community Investment Kevin Burdick // Lorie Lewis // Ivonne Bojorquez // SchoolsFirst Federal Union Specialist, School & Community Relations Julie DePrada-Schott

Lewis is a Teacher on Special Assignment specializing in Advancement via Individual Determination (AVID), a nationally recognized program dedicated to closing the opportunity by preparing students for college readiness and success outside of the classroom. She works alongside teachers and administrators to model inspirational lessons and practices, directly impacting over 2,000 students each year at three elementary schools in the district.

“Ms. Lewis brings joy and a renewed love of learning to both teachers and students,” said Two Rivers Elementary School Principal Colleen Perry. “Her Indomitable Spirit shines through each day as she crafts new lessons to excite young learners, address state standards, and guide students into deeper levels of learning and understanding.”

In receiving this honor, Lewis wanted to use the moment to share a special message with her students: “I want my students to know that I am proud of all of them for being willing to try new things, take risks, and welcoming me into their classrooms.”

From the classroom to the front office, the other honoree is the School Secretary, Ivonne Bojorquez. “She has a special brand of magic that can be felt by all who visit our school,” said Principal Perry. “She exhibits an Indomitable Spirit by overcoming the varied challenges that each day throws her way as she meets the needs of staff, students, and families – and she does it all with grace, compassion, and care for our community.”

Bojorquez is grateful to be named an Indomitable Educator and is honored to know that her school community sees all that she gives to her students, staff, and families each day.

Republic FC and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union will continue to present the Indomitable Educators Award throughout the 2024 season, shining a light on the dedicated individuals making a difference in our region’s schools.

Kick Off Pride Month with Republic FC

Earlier this week, Republic FC Director of Community Investment Kevin Burdick stopped by FOX40’s Studio40 Live to talk about all of the exciting things planned for Saturday’s Pride Night against Tampa Bay Rowdies and the club’s activations for the entire month of June.

Learn more

Pride Night Ticket & Scarf Package >>

Goals for Pride Campaign >>

2024 Pride Scarf >>

All about Republic FC’s 2024 Pride Month Celebrations >>

Celebrating Teachers: Join Us for Teacher Appreciation Day!

Due to popular demand, all available tickets have been claimed and the form is now closed.

As Teacher Appreciation Day approaches on May 7th, Republic FC is gearing up to honor the invaluable contributions of educators inside and outside the classroom. In line with the club’s longstanding commitment to teachers and students, the region’s educators can claim up to four complimentary tickets to the squad’s Round of 32 match against Monterey Bay in the U.S. Open Cup starting today.

To take advantage of the special offer, click the link below. Those interested should act fast – tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and limited quantities are available. Tuesday’s match marks Republic FC’s entry into the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – the country’s oldest ongoing soccer competition – and matches the club up with one of its regional rivals.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Each year, Republic FC and its partners work to celebrate and support teachers and students – from classroom visits with players and coaches, to developing a soccer-themed board game to help students learn about STEM, to raising over $10,000 in donations for new toys and coats for the region’s most in-need families. In 2023, the club teamed up with the Sacramento County Office of Education, recognizing the teachers of the year in an on-field presentation at Heart Health Park.

To learn more about bringing Republic FC to your school, visit SacRepublicFC.com/Community.

Growing on 10 Years of Community Impact with UC Davis Health

Since 2014, UC Davis Health has been a foundational partner for Republic FC. On the pitch, the health system has been featured prominently on the front of every kit and a part of every historic moment, including winning the title in the inaugural season, the club’s run to the 2022 U.S. Open Cup Final, and the 10th season celebration match in front of 20,000+ fans at Hughes Stadium in 2023.

Out in the community, UC Davis Health has embraced and played a key part in the club’s mission to foster a healthy, vibrant region. From hospital visits, to special pro signings, here are some of our favorite community activations with UC Davis Health over the last 10 years, and a look at what’s to come in the next chapter of this impactful partnership.

Matthew Harding Signs Pro Contract (2018)

With the support of UC Davis Health and Make-A-Wish, Republic FC signed 15-year-old Matthew Harding to a one-game contract in 2018. After a press conference to announce the signing with his hometown club, Harding trained with the team before making his pro debut and scoring the opening goal in the 1st minute.

Harding’s performance also earned him a spot on the USL Championship Team of the Week and the honor of Goal of the Week.

Hospital Visits

Across the seasons, dozens of Republic FC players have made visits to UC Davis Children’s Hospital, spending time with children and families going through treatment. The visits have included anything from coloring and playing video games, to talking about soccer, and even dance parties.

Supporting Breast Cancer Patients

Hundreds of Republic FC fans shared inspirational and supportive messages for breast cancer patients, signing a giant “get well” card.

The card – which was 10 feet tall – was later displayed in the lobby of the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, in view of patients as they enter the lobby to receive chemotherapy.

Cleats for a Cause (2019)

When Republic FC midfielder Ray Saari heard about the story of Gianna, a young patient who underwent brain surgery, he knew he wanted to meet her and create something special. Together, they designed a custom pair of cleats that Saari later wore in a match before they were auctioned off to benefit UC Davis Children’s Hospital.

Childhood Cancer Awareness

Fritz Stark & Republic FC Goalkeeper Carlos Saldaña show off the Super Hero Keeper Kit (September 2023)

Each September, Republic FC and UC Davis Health honor Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by driving awareness and raising funds to support patients and their families. Activations have included custom scarves and merchandise, healthcare hero features to celebrate doctors and nurses making a difference in the lives of those undergoing treatment, and even visits from the therapy dogs that support patients at UC Davis Health each day.

Last year, a custom keeper kit was designed by Fritz Stark, a childhood cancer survivor, and signed by patients receiving care through Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance. The jersey was worn by Republic FC keepers throughout September and later auctioned off, raising over $2,000 for the Super Fritz & Friend Fund, established by Stark’s family and friends in 2019 to fund services such as lodging assistance and insurance coordination for families battling pediatric cancer.

Strive for 45

To celebrate their record-setting partnership extension, Republic FC and UC Davis Health have launched Strive for 45, a new program focused on working directly with the region’s children to promote healthy, sustainable fitness and nutritional habits and empower individuals to act as advocates for healthy change.

Strive for 45 has launched as a pilot program this spring at five regional Title I schools where at least 40% of enrollment is made up of children from low-income families. Weekly physical education class takeovers with specially programmed youth soccer clinics, nutritional education, and more resources for students will be combined with a pedometer to help remind kids to keep active. With the pedometers as a baseline, the club and UC Davis Health will be able to examine activity and change the program to continue to encourage activity daily.

Republic FC and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Honor Indomitable Educators from Wheatland Union High School

This season, Republic FC is teaming up with Indomitable Partner SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union to celebrate the region’s standout teachers and school employees. Representing Wheatland Union High School, Jessica Ibarra and Pam Sullivan were honored as the first-ever recipients of the Indomitable Educators Award on Saturday night.

From left: Indomitable Educator Award recipients Jessica Ibarra and Pam Sullivan // SchoolFirst Federal Union Specialist, School & Community Relations Julie DePrada-Schott

As the Family & Community Schools Partnership Coordinator, Jessica Ibarra has played a key role in transforming the school site into a hub for local social services for residents, while also expanding support for English learners, first-generation college students, and foster and homeless students.

“She has had a profound impact on our school’s services and goals,” said Wheatland Union High School Principal Schandia Edwards. “She does everything to the best of her ability, is kind and generous in everything she does, and embodies the district’s motto of ‘Every Child, Every Day, Whatever it Takes.’”

“It is a great privilege to be recognized as an Indomitable Educator,” said Ibarra. “It symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to the success and well-being of my students. It’s a reminder of the impact we have on students’ lives and the importance of never giving up on them.”

Pam Sullivan is a Wheatland Union High School graduate who has been teaching at her alma mater for 23 years. She has always been a champion for her students, working tirelessly to establish the Edward P. Duplex Continuation High School in 2019. Through her actions, Pam demonstrates a profound commitment to fostering an equitable education system that meets the diverse requirements of the entire school community.

“Ms. Sullivan has a heart of gold. She goes above and beyond to make sure student needs are met,” said Principal Edwards. “She believes that all students can succeed and is a champion for helping them achieve their goals. No matter what time of day Ms. Sullivan is reachable and is always there for her students and their families.”

“It feels great to be honored and recognized for the impact I hope to have on the lives of my students,” said Sullivan. “It gives my career meaning and encourages me to continue learning how to best support them. I’m proud of my accomplishments because I know it means I’m making a positive difference in my community.”

2024 season kicks off with lively month of community initiatives

As Republic FC continues its undefeated streak to open the 2024 USL Championship season, the club and its partners have been equally busy off the pitch in March. From volunteer projects, to pledge campaigns, to launching a new health & wellness program, here’s what the Indomitable Club has been up to out in the community.

Strive for 45

As a part of their record-setting partnership announcement, Republic FC and UC Davis Health launched Strive for 45, a new program focused on working directly with the region’s children to promote healthy, sustainable fitness and nutritional habits and empower individuals to act as advocates for healthy change.

To officially kick off the program, the 10-year partners – along with Republic FC defender Damia Viader – visited Woodlake Elementary School for a P.E. takeover, leading over 50 students through soccer drills and other fun activities. Strive for 45 will launch as a pilot program this spring at five regional Title I schools where at least 40% of enrollment is made up of children from low-income families. Weekly physical education class takeovers with specially programmed youth soccer clinics, nutritional education, and more resources for students will be combined with a pedometer to help remind kids to keep active. With the pedometers as a baseline, the club and UC Davis Health will be able to examine activity and change the program to continue to encourage activity daily.

For more on Strive for 45, visit SacRepublicFC.com/Strivefor45.

Goals for Crash

In recognition of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Republic FC called on fans and community members to honor the life of Shaun “Crash” Kitka, one of the club’s most passionate supporters. Crash was a longtime Republic FC season ticket holder and a member of Tower Bridge Battalion. Upon learning of his Colon Cancer diagnosis, he became an advocate for the importance of screenings and early detection.

Launched in Kitka’s memory, the Goals for Crash campaign was setup to benefit the Colon Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal Cancer, two organizations that are dedicated to funding research to cure the disease and providing patient support resources.

Once again, the club’s supporters stepped up, adding to the club’s pledge of $100 per goal, to raise $3,000 for the two organizations.

Week of Service

Alongside Indomitable Partner Raising Cane’s, Republic FC hosted its annual Week of Service, organizing five days of volunteer projects leading up to the March 9 season opener. With every volunteer shift filled almost immediately after signups opened, over 100 hours of community service were completed. Many thanks to all of the fans, partners, and community members – including Republic FC defenders Conor Donovan and Jonathan Ricketts – who participated in this impactful week.

Projects included:

Packaging basic needs kits at 3Strands Global Foundation
Sorting & packing food at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services
Packing backpacks at Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance
Meal service at the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope
Meal kit assembly & distribution at the Food Literacy Center

Black History Month Scholarship

Each year, Republic FC teams up with local community partners to invest in the next generation of leaders and changemakers, providing scholarships to support students who statistically face significant challenges in pursuing a higher education.

On Opening Night, the club and the Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce presented the first scholarship of the annual series to Adedara Illori, a senior at Center High School. She plans to pursue a career in the medical field with the dream of becoming an anesthesiologist and address the inequity and underrepresentation that African Americans face in medicine, both as patients and medical professionals.

Community Tickets

Republic FC and its partners are committed to investing in the community by distributing match tickets to under-served schools and non-profit organizations, providing a space for the club to share the beautiful game with our local youth and create opportunities for them and their families to become a part of the Indomitable community.

In March, the club worked with 136 organizations to distribute 2,045 community tickets. To learn more visit SacRepublicFC.com/Community.

Walk with Republic FC and Western Health Advantage to Bring Hope to Those Affected by Suicide

This April, join Republic FC, Western Health Advantage, and hundreds of local participants becoming advocates for change, hope, and love. The partners are teaming up to participate in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Thursday, April 11 at Sac State.

Hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the event is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support that brings together family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers in memory of those we’ve lost to suicide. Each year, hundreds of communities host a walk to raise awareness and funds, sending the message that suicide can be preventable, and that no one is alone.

Registration for the walk is free and each participant will have the option to create a fundraising page to collect donations in addition to Republic FC’s $1,000 pledge. Anyone who joins the Republic FC / Western Health Advantage team will also receive two free tickets to an upcoming match.

Sign up for the Out of the Darkness Walk

In May, Republic FC and Western Health Advantage will continue to work together for Mental Health Awareness Month, driving awareness for 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that is featured on every 2024 Republic FC kit. The partners will also host the first-ever Student Athlete Mental Health Summit to create a supportive and inclusive environment for teenagers throughout the region to talk about the impact of mental health on their development as athletes and individuals.

For more information about Republic FC and Western Health Advantage’s commitment to driving awareness for mental health concerns and resources, visit SacRepublicFC.com/988.

If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts or need mental health support, call/text 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org/chat to talk to a trained counselor. All conversations are free and confidential.

Meet This Year’s Black History Month Scholarship Recipient

On Opening Night, the club and the Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce presented the first scholarship of the annual series to Adedara Illori, a senior at Center High School.

Left to Right: scholarship recipient Adedara Illori and Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce Program Coordinator Kaifa Yates

As she prepares for the next chapter of her education, Illori plans to pursue a career in the medical field with the dream of becoming an anesthesiologist. Her passion is driven by her desire to address the inequity and underrepresentation that African Americans face in medicine, both as patients and medical professionals.

“Ever since I was young, I heard many stories about African American patients feeling underrepresented, or just not cared for enough when it came to receiving healthcare,” she wrote. “This drove me to want to become a doctor so that I can help make African American patients feel like they are heard and fully cared for.”

With a 4.2 GPA and plenty of experience giving back to her community, Illori is certainly on her way to making a difference in the lives of her future patients and the medical field. Congratulations, Adedara!

Each year since 2019, Republic FC’s Indomitable Scholars series has awarded four scholarships to standout students in the Greater Sacramento Region. Later this year, the club will work with the Sacramento LGBT Community Center, the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and other community organizations to highlight and celebrate students like Adedara Illori who strive to be leaders in Sacramento and beyond.

Goals for Crash Campaign Returns to Raise Funds for the Fight Against Colon Cancer

This March, Republic FC is once again inviting fans and community members to honor the life of one of the club’s most passionate supporters by fighting to end colon cancer. Inspired by the legacy of Shaun “Crash” Kitka, the club has launched a pledged-based donation campaign for the entire month.

For every goal scored in the club’s first four regular season matches – as well as a final preseason match on March 2 – Republic FC will pledge $100 to benefit the Colon Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal Cancer, two organizations that are dedicated to funding research to cure the disease and providing patient support and resources. Fans are also invited to pledge alongside the club.

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE TODAY

This is the second year that Republic FC has organized the month-long campaign. In 2023, the club and community joined together to raise over $2,000 for the cause.

Crash was a longtime Republic FC season ticket holder and a member of Tower Bridge Battalion, a shining example of the passion and dedication that fans have for this club, and his impact on the entire Republic FC will be forever remembered. Upon learning of his Colon Cancer diagnosis, Crash became an advocate for the importance of screenings and early detection. In 2021, he was recognized by the club with the Kevin Nagle Indomitable Spirit Award for his work to improve resources for patients and survivors of colon cancer and his desire to bring colon cancer screenings to the forefront for younger audiences.

Republic FC March Matches

Saturday, March 2 vs. Monterey Bay F.C. (Preseason)
Saturday, March 9 vs. Orange County SC
Saturday, March 16 at Miami FC
Saturday, March 23 at Indy Eleven
Saturday, March 30 vs. Memphis 901 FC

Republic FC and Raising Cane’s Team Up for Annual Week of Community Service, Sign-Ups Now Open for March Volunteer Projects

With the start of the 2024 USL Championship season just 18 days away Republic FC and Raising Cane’s are calling on fans and community members to join in the club’s annual week of service to the region. Beginning March 4, the club will host a different volunteer project leading up to the team’s season opener on March 9. Together, volunteer groups comprised of Republic FC players, coaches, employees from Raising Cane’s and the club’s front office – as well as fans and partners – will complete over 100 hours of community service.

Every season, the club focuses on finding ways to support and uplift those in need and through this week of service extends its impact with additional support and people power from fans. As a thank you, all volunteers will receive two free tickets to the club’s season opener, as well as a team swag bag. Fans can sign-up for a shift today at SacRepublicFC.com/Community. Opportunities are expected to fill up quickly. Last year, the club and fans teamed up to complete over 300 hours of service projects.

SIGN UP FOR A VOLUNTEER SHIFT TODAY

“This community continues to show up and support our club every season, and we look forward to showing our gratitude each year during this week of service,” said Republic FC Vice President of Community Investment Scott Moak. “There are so many dedicated individuals and organizations working tirelessly to make our region stronger every day, and we’re looking forward to lending a helping hand to support their service to others.”

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Republic FC to give back to local non-profits and the communities they support,” said Chris Zygler, Raising Cane’s Regional Leader of Restaurants. “Being involved in our community is at the heart of who we are as a company and what better way to do that than to bring people together for this week of service.”

Schedule of events

Monday, March 4 – 3Strands Global Foundation / packaging basic needs kits
Tuesday, March 5 – Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services / sorting and packing food resources for local distribution
Wednesday, March 6 – Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance / packing backpacks and school supplies
Thursday, March 7 – Salvation Army / meal service
Friday, March 8 – Food Literacy Center / meal kit assembly

The week will kick off on March 4 at 3Strands Global Foundation. Volunteers will prepare basic needs kits (socks, undergarments, etc.) to be distributed at the organization’s center, The Table. The recently opened midtown location supports survivors of human trafficking can receive a wide range of services, including a food pantry, shower facilities, mental health care, childcare, and career training.

On March 5, volunteers will spend the afternoon at the Sacramento Food Bank in North Sacramento, sorting and packaging fresh produce and non-perishable items for distribution. The food bank is the largest nonprofit provider of basic human needs in Sacramento County, distributing 2.9 million pounds of food each month and many other social services including immigration legal assistance, utilities assistance, and refugee resettlement aid.

On March 6, the club will assist Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance, a Northern California-based non-profit that supports children with cancer and their families with emotional, educational, and financial aid while increasing awareness and funding research toward a cure. For Wednesday’s project, volunteers will package school supply bags for patients and siblings returning to school following cancer treatment.

An afternoon/evening volunteer opportunity will be offered on March 7, when the group serves dinner at the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope. It is the largest shelter for the unhoused in Sacramento, providing emergency housing services and additional support, with the focus of finding permanent solutions to overcome homelessness.

The week will conclude at the Food Literacy Center on March 8. Volunteers will assemble and distribute Food Adventure Meal Kits, providing students at Leataata Floyd Elementary School with the ingredients to cook their own healthy meals at home. The organization’s mission is to inspire kids to eat their vegetables, teaching children in low-income neighborhoods cooking, nutrition, gardening, and active play to improve our health, environment, and economy.

SIGN UP FOR A VOLUNTEER SHIFT TODAY

Sign-ups for volunteer shifts are open now at SacRepublicFC.com/Community. Volunteers must be at least 18 years or older, with the exception of Friday’s shift at the Sacramento Food Bank (see here for volunteer requirements). Projects may be adjusted due to inclement weather. Work supplies and equipment will be provided by the club.

On Saturday, March 9, Republic FC will begin its quest for Championship silverware, a 10^th postseason berth, and another chance at National glory during the U.S. Open Cup. With 17 players returning from the 2023 squad that finished on top of the Western Conference table, the club is ready to pick up right where it left off and charge into the next chapter of Republic FC history with confidence and a winning mentality. The club will open the 2024 season at home, hosting Orange County SC at Heart Health Park. Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available now at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets.

Raising Cane’s is one of the fastest growing restaurant brands, with 775+ Restaurants in 40+ states, the Middle East and Guam and plans to open 100 new Restaurants across several new markets in 2024. The company recently announced plans to be one of the top 10 Restaurant brands in the United States and is known for its ONE LOVE® – craveable Chicken Finger meals – which includes the iconic “Cane’s Sauce” – named the #1 most craveable sauce in the restaurant industry and most craveable chicken. For more information visit raisingcanes.com.