Buffalo Soccer for Success

Independent Health Foundation Youth Soccer Initiative

Buffalo Soccer for Success is the Buffalo arm of the U.S. Soccer Foundation's national Soccer for Success program, operated locally by the Independent Health Foundation with United Way of Buffalo & Erie County as a partner. The program targets affordable access for kids who might not otherwise have soccer in their lives.

Programs for Ages 5-14

Free or low-cost youth soccer delivered through community channels. Programs include:
- In-school teams at Buffalo Public Schools and Charter Schools
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Buffalo region
- Community center sessions
- Family engagement events
- Coach-mentor positions for youth (paid spring/summer)

What's Included

• 15+ outdoor sites across the city plus indoor venues
• SportsYou platform for team comms
• Greg Massey Coach-Mentor Memorial Award recognition
• Mentor-coach model (older youth paid to mentor younger players)

Experience

Mission-driven equity program rather than competitive academy. Suits Buffalo families looking for accessible community soccer through a school or rec center, especially where cost has been a barrier to traditional club play.