There is usually an overarching theme for my annual reflection, and this year’s is about adapting to change and meeting the moment when opportunities and challenges bring us to uncharted paths. It has been that kind of year, truly a 12-month whirlwind! Thanks to our network of friends, partners, and donors (YOU), we embarked on a new program, Beyond Resilient Girls; revamped an old program, Academic Overtime; expanded the Leadership/ Coach Mentor Program with several new positions; and welcomed over 1,200 Lawrence youth to participate in the Beyond Soccer experience. 

New funding provided resources to focus on leadership and resilience programming, the hallmarks of our program for middle school and high school students. Sustaining the quality of our program and its expansion has meant delving into new research and networks, and we will be implementing exciting new changes reflecting that work. The agenda for this winter is ambitious. Stay tuned for new information as we tackle the perennial field space issue, assess our three-year strategic plan, develop new goals based on what has already been achieved, and explore the possibilities coming our way due to the FIFA World Cup 2026 coming to Boston!