DC SCORES: Volunteer

Showing posts with label Volunteer. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Volunteer spotlight: Deirdre Hart from Discovery

Can you explain more about the Dollars for Doers initiative?
Dollars for Doers is a way for Discovery to support their employees and to encourage us to give back and contribute to our community. The program supports employees by making contributions to causes that we are passionate about. It gives us an incentive to become even more involved and make a bigger impact. If we volunteer for 30 hours over a program year to a nonprofit, Discovery will make a $3,000 donation to that organization.

How has your time with DC SCORES impacted you?
My biggest thing and what I love about DC SCORES is I love the opportunity it provides for kids. It allows kids to have something that they can do and participate in after school -- it keeps them active, which is super important to me, and it also grows their confidence. DC SCORES helps pave the way to success. It is amazing to see an 8-year-old killing it on stage at the Poetry Slam!. Volunteering with DC SCORES gives me a way to make an impact with kids in DC.

Can you share a favorite memory?
During Fall Frenzy, I signed up to volunteer and was assigned to face painting, and I thought, “Oh no, I’m an accountant,” but you all assured me that I would be fine. Well, while I was doing it, one of the moms asked me, “Woah, are you an artist??” and kids were lining up for me! That obviously made me feel great, but also all of the kids and families were so grateful and happy to be a part of the event. Doing the face painting was also amazing because it allowed me to sit and talk with each of them one-on-one, and that was really cool.

What motivates you to volunteer?
I think just giving back in general is so important for everyone. We all had help along the way in different ways and capacities. Growing up, I’ve always volunteered. You get a lot out of it and the people you are helping get a lot out of it as well. It makes the world go round, you know!

What do you do in your free time?
I like to travel, my husband is an airline pilot, so we love going to new places. I also enjoy going to see shows at different music venues, as well as exploring all of the other great things to do in DC. My husband and I are taking Spanish lessons right now, AND we recently adopted our dog, Bruno.

If you could ask your new dog one question, what would it be?
We adopted him 3 weeks ago, and he is about a year old. I wanna know what he looked like as a puppy! I would ask him to go find a photo for me because I bet he was even more adorable.

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Volunteer spotlight: Kathy Jacquart, soccer referee

DC SCORES has more than 500 volunteers who help make our program possible for 2,200 low-income DC kids. From assistant coaching, to tackling our big events, to providing expert services and advice, to folding newsletters in our office, to reffing weekly soccer games, to taking photos and videos, and much more, our volunteers make a difference in many ways and with varying schedules.

Today we highlight a volunteer, Kathy Jacquart, who has been refereeing soccer games for us since 2010 and loves the interactions she has with the kids each week during the fall and spring seasons. Get to know Kathy below, and if you'd like to referee games this spring, sign up HERE!

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What is your day job?
I work at the National Science Foundation, specifically supporting the National Science Board, which governs and sets policies for the agency. The National Science Foundation is the primary funder of basic scientific, non-health research. We mostly fund university research, but also some STEM K-12 programs as well.

How long have you been volunteering with DC SCORES?
I started reffing games in 2013.

How did you first get involved with DC SCORES?
I think that it was VolunteerMatch online. I just was searching through the opportunities and reached out. I had been overseas doing international development work and wanted to settle back into DC and find somewhere to volunteer.

Do you have a soccer background?
Yeah, I played 4th-9th or 10th grade and in college on intramural teams. My dad coached and all of my siblings played. I wasn’t all that good, but it was my first team sport and I’ve always loved it.

I heard an interesting tidbit about how you get to and from your referee sites -- are you an avid cyclist?
I mostly bike for transportation -- I’ve always biked both recreationally and for transportation. This past year with the metro situation, I started biking to work a few days a week. My boss is an avid cyclist and sold me a really nice bike, which makes the commute much more pleasant. So I am not some hardcore cyclist, but I ride a few days to work and for fun.

How has your time with DC SCORES impacted you?
Well, I don’t usually have a lot of interaction with kids. I don’t have kids myself, and my nieces and nephews don’t live in the area. As I mentioned, my dad coached for many, many years. I didn’t realize the kind of impact that had on him until much later. Inspired by that, I wanted to try to work with kids in some way. I don’t really have enough time to coach, but I wanted to help out somehow.

I really like the elementary kids -- they are so cute! I’ve refereed at some of the same sites for years and have seen them really improve from year to year. They are really sweet kids. It’s so much fun to see them have a good time and watch the coaches interact with them.

"It’s not just about the soccer, but really about sportsmanship and having fun. Even though I am only involved with DC SCORES as a referee, I can just tell and see what a great program it is. Refereeing is a fun opportunity for me to have a little interaction with kids and contribute in a small way to a really great program. I have a great time and feel good about it!"

Do you have a favorite DC SCORES memory?
The biggest thing has been seeing the improvement from season to season. Especially last fall -- a lot of the kids that I remembered from the spring had made remarkable improvements in their skills and understanding of the game.

One specific memory: one game a couple of years ago, there was a a little girl that was really funny, she was a real character. There was a bit of a scuffle on the field, I think someone got pushed. I was trying to get everyone to shake it off and make sure the kids were all okay. I heard the little girl say to her teammate, “When they go low, you go high." I thought that was amazing coming from a young girl -- she really understood the point of being a good sport.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to get out and do stuff outside as much as possible. I am on a rowing team at the Capital Rowing Club and I’ve rowed since college. Unfortunately, now I am on a senior weekend program, but there are people of all ages -- we will get back out on the water in a couple of weeks.

I love exploring new places, which is something great about living in DC. There are so many things to see and places to see in DC and in the surrounding area. My husband and I do a lot of exploring and hiking on the weekends.

What is your dream vacation?
I’ve lived overseas for almost 15 years and have done a ton of traveling and been to some really cool places, but really my favorite vacation spot is a little beach in Rhode Island called Briggs Beach. My family has been going there since my grandmother was a little girl, and there is a 25-year waiting list to get a membership. It is so serene and there's something special about it. I go there and just feel the stress melt away. I really would trade any other beautiful vacation spot for this little beach in Rhode Island.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?
You know, my husband is really into Science Fiction and I’m sure he would have an immediate list of his top 10 superpowers. Hmmm. I think that it would be to make sure that everyone is fed. I would want to be able to make sure that no one is going to bed with a hungry tummy.

Monday, December 26, 2016

Volunteer spotlight: Joshua McGee, Advisory Council all-star

Joshua (left) at a DC SCORES fundraiser.

Can you explain more about the Advisory Council?
The Advisory Council is a group of volunteers and community members who are very invested in the success of DC SCORES. We help with fundraising efforts and increase connections in the community. This involves reaching out to our personal and professional networks for fundraising and facilitating relationships for special events.

What is the League of Champions (LOC) and what does belonging to the LOC mean to you?
The LOC is a level of giving support for DC SCORES that requires a donation of (at least) $1,000 each year for five years. After being involved for a short period of time, I immediately recognized the huge benefit of DC SCORES not just for the kids, but for the schools, communities and coaches. I believe in the mission of developing people through teams and teamwork, so giving was simply a no-brainer for me. It is one of many ways for me to support DC SCORES, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

How has your time with DC SCORES impacted you?
There is a common tendency for young professionals who move to DC to live in a bubble of 20-somethings and to only hang out in certain places, which limits our worldview. DC SCORES has helped me expand my point of view and recognize not only my privilege, but also the need that is out there in our city. With DC SCORES, I am able to provide others with the opportunities that I had growing up as a kid. I am able to help DC SCORES lift up people who have so much value to be the best that they can be, and DC SCORES allows me to see my place in it all.

Joshua watches a D.C. United game with some of his DC SCORES friends.

Can you share a favorite memory?
Every Poetry Slam!. This most recent West Side Poetry Slam was especially awesome due to the political environment and everything we had going into it. Everyone gave their two cents that week, so it was really powerful to hear the perspective of the poet-athletes at DC SCORES. It really put things in perspective for me and reaffirmed what we as a country need to do for the next four years. It also gave me a lot of hope for the next generation to see them so politically active and aware. All Poetry Slams are impactful, and it was great to see that happen again this year.

What motivates you to volunteer? To give?
The poet-athletes.

What do you do in your free time?
I hang out with DC SCORES staff, really enjoy hiking, and traveling. I like listening to lots of music and going to good concerts.

What is your New Year's resolution?
Be healthier, eat smarter, and doing more leisure reading. I read too much with a purpose, so much news.

What is your karaoke go-to?
Piano Man by Billy Joel

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Volunteer spotlight: Steve Christensen, DC SCORES coach and videographer

DC SCORES has more than 500 volunteers who help make our program possible for 2,200 low-income DC kids. From assistant coaching, to tackling our big events, to providing expert services and advice, to folding newsletters in our office, to reffing weekly soccer games, to taking photos and videos, and much more, our volunteers make a difference in many ways and with varying schedules.

Today we highlight a volunteer, Steve Christensen, who has made an incredible impact in just over a year involved with DC SCORES. Since seeing programming for the first time, Steve has aligned with our mission and goes above and beyond with every project he takes on. He's served as an assistant coach at two schools -- Tubman and Powell -- and has aided fundraising and communications efforts by shooting and editing several videos and also taking photos. Last spring, Steve was one of our Volunteers of the Year for his dedication to the organization.

Check out some of Steve's videos below, and get to know him through this Q&A. Sign up to volunteer like Steve HERE!

Steve Christensen's videos

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Q&A with Steve Christensen

What do you do?
I am a PhD student at UMD studying molecular and cell biology.

How long have you been volunteering with DC SCORES?
About one year and a few months. The first time I got involved was last summer, where I took pictures at camp and put together some video.

How did you first get involved with DC SCORES?
I heard about it through Jake (Lloyd) from November Project (and a staff member). He was always talking about it. You know how he is.

You have helped expand our capacity in so many ways. Can you name a few of the different ways that you have volunteered with us?
Sure, yeah. I take photos and videos, make highlight reels for special events and camps, and have done the videos for the Get in the Game Breakfast the past two years. I also have volunteered at special events like Fall Frenzy and Jamboree! and always try to get a group of friends to come out with me. I have also coached -- I coached at Tubman last year and this season I am currently coaching at Powell.

How has your time with DC SCORES impacted you?
I’ve always wanted to coach. I grew up playing soccer and having a role model as a coach was always important to me. Giving back to the community working with DC SCORES has changed the way that I view my community. It’s not just a place that I live in, but I now have an active role not just in my neighborhood but in a network that impacts DC in general.

What do you love most about DC SCORES?
The method in which the program incorporates not just soccer, but service-learning and poetry together with soccer is ingenious. I think it really is more than just a soccer program, I don’t know how to describe it. It is a community program where kids are getting so much out of it. They might not leave any good at soccer, but they have a community team that gives them a place to go after school, friends, and role models. I love the combination and the way I see it helping the kids.

Favorite DC SCORES memory?
It’s all good. Here’s one. When we were at Fall Frenzy last year, one of my students at the arts table wrote me a thank you letter -- specifically to me. I still have it up on my fridge actually.

What motivates you to volunteer?
The fact that the kids are always excited to be there and always smiling. That shows you the impact that you have just by being there.

What do you like to do in your free time?
November Project takes up a lot of time. I co-lead the DC chapter and November Project is in 32 cities currently. I’ve been doing that for three years now. I play soccer myself in an amateur men’s league. Hmm. I’m also a runner, so I train for races. I spend a lot of time hanging out with my fiance and our dog.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of the month, what would it be?
Cheesecake. No, (actually) apple pie. I could never get sick of apple pie.

Who is your favorite athlete?
I don’t know if I have a favorite. Usain Bolt is pretty great. I am also impressed by Clint Dempsey and what he has done with his career.

What is your karaoke go-to?
I don’t do karaoke a lot. But it would probably be Billy Joel or Justin Timberlake.

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Volunteer spotlight: Philippe Monfiston, research superstar

It would be impossible to give 1,500 kids the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. This month we highlight Philippe Monfiston, who has volunteered his time since November every week in our office. Philippe makes a big difference for our development and communications team, researching prospective partners and more. He demonstrates one of many ways you can contribute as a part of our team! Philippe, a recent George Washington Master's of Public Health graduate, also volunteers with the Society for International Development (SID).

Don't wait to join our incredibly fun and growing contingent of volunteers before the season ends May 30! Find the right opportunity for you and your schedule HERE. And read about Philippe's experience in his own words below.

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DCS: Why do you volunteer at DC SCORES?

It's belief in the cause. I wouldn't do it since it’s a matter of investing the money in the metro fare … everything I do -- there has to be a reason, what keeps me, and it’s the cause. When I come in and see everyone working -- and from every angle they approach it they’re really motivated -- and then I go out and I see it, when I visit games … I think it's both from the office side and the field side getting to the results of what DC SCORES has done. And the recent testimony -- I don’t really follow local politics that closely, but understanding how important it is to support these kinds of initiatives, it makes my time that much more important.

DCS: What has been your favorite DC SCORES moment so far?

I think it has to be Poetry Slam!. I went at CHEC in Columbia Heights right around when I started. I hadn’t really been to poetry slams in general so it was just like ‘let’s see how it goes.’ New to the program, new to DC SCORES, let’s just see what this is all about. It blew me away. To this day I can still remember Lincoln and Madalin's poem and the lines 'what do you help build?' or 'what do you help create?', more or less along those. lines…It was one of those things that just sticks with you. It was very powerful.

DCS: Why is volunteering important?

For one thing, as a part of the job search and it comes up in different strategies, it's getting out in the environment, making sure to interact with people. This gives me a chance to put my money where my mouth is. Yeah, it's one thing to say, 'I believe in social justice causes.' This is a chance to walk the walk. It’s a chance to show what I‘m committed to.

DCS: Why is DC SCORES important?

I think it gives the children a place to be. One concept I've come across in public health are social determinants of health. Besides just having access to care, it's also having a solid community, having an environment that fosters a positive well being. That’s what DC SCORES helps with. It gives the kids a place to be. The values it instills in the students can be used to build a stronger community -- not just physically healthy, but socially healthy as well. And with the different components. The poetry addresses children’s needs on different fronts. It’s the community aspect, the physical aspect with the soccer, with the poetry you have the self-expression in different ways than they’ve been exposed to normally. If you think about the kind of music they listen to … how many people come to them and broaden their horizons with what poetry has to offer? So certain projects may approach a specific aspect of the problem that affects DC youth, like homelessness or gun violence. But DC SCORES gets at those too and just has more diverse approach.

DCS: What do you want to do in the future?

I would like to get back to the global health and poverty reduction route. I've always been interested in the arts and humanities. I graduated with a BA in classics. I might go to a different industry and work with the humanities, but for the time being I would like to see how far I can still go with addressing global health.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

Soccer! DC SCORES Saturdays, and you can find me (watching games) at Drafting Table. Also different cultural events around DC, if it doesn’t overlap with soccer games. Going to concerts, free embassy events.

DCS: What are your favorite sports, teams and athletes?

In elementary school I was a basketball fan, but over the years I've become kind of a soccer purist. It's definitely my favorite sport. The best answer is that it depends on the league or the country -- so Arsenal and D.C. United, Celtic, Barcelona, Brazil, the U.S. I like athletes that are also model citizens. I like when I see a player that comes across as a great individual.

DCS: Favorite music artist?

The Cure (among many others).

DCS: And finally, what's your favorite food?

Thai is really good. Fried plantains with fried pork. It’s a shame it's bad for you and DC SCORES promotes good nutrition!

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Volunteer Spotlight: Blake Lindsay, soccer coach at Seaton Elementary School

Next Monday, DC SCORES programming at 45 elementary and middle school students begins throughout the District. It would be impossible to give 1,500 kids the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. This month we highlight Blake Lindsay, who has volunteered his time the last two seasons as an assistant soccer coach at Seaton Elementary School. Blake will continue coaching this spring. Don't wait to join our incredibly fun and growing contingent of volunteers. Find the right opportunity for you and your schedule HERE. And read about Blake's experience below.

Written by Josh Freedholm
Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator

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DCS: Where are you from and where do you work?

I was born and raised in Seattle, WA.

I am a foreign policy analyst with a Master's degree in U.S. National Security Policy from Georgetown, but I am currently in search of career opportunities.

DCS: How long have you been playing soccer?

I started playing competitive soccer for the Mavericks of the McGilvra Youth Soccer Club when I was 6 years old, so 27 years, but I began playing soccer in the yard with my brothers much earlier. Beginning in middle school I was often playing on club, school, and indoor soccer teams at the same time. I don't know how my mom managed the logistics with three competitive boys, but she deserves a medal. I played three years of high school varsity soccer for the Bush School Blazers and captained the team to the Washington state 1-A quarterfinals in 1999. I am currently captain of Lincoln's Left Foot, a co-ed soccer team I started in the summer of 2006.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I was looking for a rewarding avenue for volunteer work in the community and I came across a link to DC SCORES on the website of District Sports. I decided to attend a High Five Tour and I was blown away. I signed up to become a DC SCORES soccer coach that same day.

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

I think the DC SCORES model of using soccer, self-expression, and service-learning to facilitate development is very innovative and powerful. Soccer is a powerful hook for children: the joy of playing needs no further explanation for kids. But the beauty of development through soccer is that the values of the game are the values of community: teamwork, fair play, equality, self-sacrifice, acceptance and hard work. I have been humbled by the tremendous community support for our team at Seaton and impressed by the sophisticated ways that DC SCORES leverages that engagement to facilitate self-expression and service action.

DCS: Describe your experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

As a soccer coach for DC SCORES I am responsible for 28 fourth- and fifth-graders for an hour and a half, three times a week. I had never worked with kids before, so at first the challenge of keeping so many kids engaged was very daunting. But with the guidance of my teacher-coach colleagues, I got the hang of it and seeing my kids progress as individuals and as a team has been tremendously rewarding. This last season we had a turning point when the boys squad was down 0-1 in the second half. The whole team rallied behind them and they came storming back to win. I was so proud to see them come together as a group to deal with adversity. They are such great kids.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

I like to play soccer, ski, hike and cook.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Landon Donovan, but Edgar Martinez is a close second.

DCS: One fun fact about you?

I am an Eagle Scout. That may not sound fun, but it was a blast. My father, my brother, and I belonged to a very active and adventurous scout troop in Seattle. Every summer we would organize an expedition backpacking or kayaking trip of 50-100 miles through the remote and breathtaking terrain of the Pacific Northwest. We even summited Mt. Baker. I am still animated by the pull of those wild places.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Volunteer spotlight: Aya Takeuchi, program photographer

When people ask about volunteering with DC SCORES, they often think that if they can’t make it to a coaching session after school or a game day to referee, then there are no options available for them. However, our volunteer spotlight this month highlights an amazing volunteer who has demonstrated that there are other paths toward making an impact for DC SCORES.

Aya Takeuchi has supported DC SCORES as a photographer at many events, snapping great photos that we include in our communications (many of the photos on our Flickr page are Aya's!). Further, she has spread the word about DC SCORES and brought her network to a High Five Tour.

Without the help of volunteers and donors telling others about DC SCORES, there is no way we could successfully provide high-quality programming for 1,500 students throughout the District. If you would like to attend a tour or invite your friends to one, check out our tour dates HERE.

Please visit our website for a list of volunteer opportunities, but also reach out if you have other ideas. Photographers, poets, artists, designers, social media gurus and more are always needed!

For some inspiration, read about Aya’s experiences with DC SCORES below!

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DCS: Where are you from and where do you work?

I am originally from Japan. I came to this country to study at the University of Maryland. I just got a new job offer literally today! I am currently working at U.S. Courts, but I will start working for Callahan & Associates on Oct 28. I am a software engineer.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I found it on a local TV news show! Then I went to the DC SCORES website to volunteer at Jamboree!.

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

The staff and volunteers who support the programs. They are wonderful mentors/role models for the kids.

DCS: Describe your experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

I have been helping as a photographer. My job is to capture the moments of DC SCORES kids and their activities.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

Travel! I have visited 45 countries and counting! When I am in the DC area, I love to play volleyball. I have two league teams. I also love to sing karaoke (another outlet of my stress), take pictures and do volunteer work.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

I was raised to be a classical pianist and now I mostly listen to British music. I like singers from lots of different genres.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

I follow all Japanese athletes playing overseas!

DCS: Fun fact?

I said I play volleyball ... but I am only 5'2"! I am usually the shortest player on the volleyball court :)

Monday, July 21, 2014

Volunteers spotlight: Making a difference at DC SCORES summer camp

Oliver Steinglass (lef) and Ben Alers.

Elayna Cross (center) with summer campers!

Ben: That it combines working with kids and soccer, and I am passionate about both of those things. It makes it more fun to do community service in an area that I enjoy.

Elayna: This a completely different world from where I grew up, which was a very privileged town. Being in a place where sports and arts programs are a privilege and not something that is guaranteed has provided a whole new perspective for me.

Oliver: I think it is awesome to interact with kids that I wouldn’t normally interact with on a daily basis.

DCS: Describe your experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

Ben: This has been a really positive experience. The kids are very energetic and the other counselors have been very welcoming.

Elayna: It has been amazing to see how two days can make such a difference, and how the kids already trust me and know me.

Oliver: It has been great having a leadership role at a camp as opposed to being a camper.

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

Ben: Working with kids and helping them improve their soccer skills.

Elayna: Seeing the way something as simple as spending one day with youth (can make a difference). Social justice is also a big part of my Judaism and the reason I am here.

Oliver: I wanted to have a different experience because I play soccer all the time, but I have never used it to give back to others.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

Ben: I like playing soccer and reading. I play travel soccer for Bethesda and I also play for my school team.

Elayna: Volunteering is a large part of my free time. I started a soccer program for kids with special needs in my home, so that takes up a lot of my time. I also like to dance and play soccer.

Oliver: I play travel soccer with Arlington and I play for my school’s varsity team as well.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Ben: Joel Campbell, a Costa Rican soccer player. I like him because he is a great player and my brother played with him on the U-17 Costa Rican national team.

Elayna: Misty Copeland, she is a dancer. She started dancing in Boys & Girls Clubs when she was younger and now she dances for a prestigious company in L.A. She has now dedicated her life to giving underprivileged youth the same opportunities she had to excel at dance.

Oliver: Tim Howard is my favorite athlete because he is a good ambassador for soccer in the U.S. because he is one of the few who plays abroad. I also play goalie, so he is an awesome role model.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

Ben: My favorite band is Weezer.

Elayna: Mitch Albom wrote “Tuesdays with Morrie,” and it is about how some people who come into our lives make a lasting impression. I would love to be able to say that I had that same impact on someone, that Morrie did on Mitch Albom.

Oliver: My mom is a poet and she writes children’s poetry, so I have to say that she is my favorite.

DCS: Fun fact?

Ben: I just completed an Outward Bound trip, where I spent two weeks in the wilderness backpacking through North Carolina.

Elayna: The coolest thing about me is that I was blonde when I was born but now I have naturally dark brown hair.

Oliver: I lived in Hong Kong for three years starting when I was in sixth grade. I speak Chinese and am still taking Chinese classes in high school.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Volunteer Spotlight: Eugene Schacht, writing coach at Tubman Elementary School

Each month, DC SCORES highlights a volunteer that has made a significant impact on the program. It would be impossible to give 1,500 students throughout the District the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit www.DCSCORES.org.

This month we highlight Eugene Schacht, a writing coach at Tubman Elementary School in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, DC. Eugene started as an assistant writing coach at the beginning of the spring season. When the head coach ran into a schedule conflict with her graduate school classes, Eugene stepped into the head coaching role without hesitation and is guiding the Toads through the culmination of their service-learning project.

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DCS: Where are you from and where do you work?

I grew up in Fairfax, VA, and I moved into DC proper about six years ago. I work for Booz Allen Hamilton and I do IT for them.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I found a posting online for a volunteer writing coach opening and I thought it was a great way to get involved because I studied writing in school. I had been volunteering with Reading Partners for the past two years as well, and it sounded like a good segue.

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

Definitely the fact that you combine writing, soccer and service-learning all into one experience. I think the combination is pretty rare and really valuable because it helps kids discover new interests they might have never known they had.

DCS: Describe your experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

It has been great, both extremely rewarding and extremely challenging at times. As a volunteer coach it is definitely more difficult building relationships with kids than it is for teachers from within a school, which is why your model is so great. But I have learned that if you put in the most you can give, the students will recognize that, and in this way I have been able to form relationships with the kids. Now it is going to be just me and these kids for the final two weeks of programming and I feel confident because I have seen them progress through this service-learning project and improve as a team working together on the field as well.

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

Giving back to people and playing a bigger role in the community. I have never really been one to focus on myself, and my mom was similar and encouraged me to do the same. She never really hesitated to lend a hand.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

I work out a lot and I like to write and read. I am big into music too and I play guitar and piano, so I also like to go to a lot of concerts.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete is Peyton Manning because he studies the game completely and he puts everything into it, striving to always do better.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

I don’t actually have one, it is too hard to pick one. I like people who can take big ideas and put them into a few words.

DCS: Fun fact?

My wife and I have four cats, Jillian, Miss Tortie, Duster and Firebird.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Coaches and volunteers celebrated at 2nd Annual SCORE Awards

ATA coaches receive the Teamwork Award.

The mission of DC SCORES is that we build teams through after-school programs for 1,500 low-income DC youth.

However, it's not just the youth at 47 schools who grow together, become friends, and inspire each other to become leaders in their communities — the same can be said for the writing and soccer coaches who make our program possible throughout Washington, DC.

That was showcased — front and center — at the 2nd Annual SCORE Awards celebration Tuesday night at LongView Gallery. Nearly 200 guests were on hand for a night of inspiration, including dozens of coaches.

Many of those coaches took the stage during the event's presentation to receive awards for their dedication to being DC SCORES champions at their schools.

They took the stage together.

The last two trophies handed out during the evening were for the Teamwork Award. First, a group of eight coaches from Truesdell Education Campus crowded in on the small stage to receive their award. There is no way that more than a fifth of Truesdell's K-8 student body would be able to participate in DC SCORES — on elementary and middle school teams — without the unified support of their coaches, who are also teachers in the school.

Next, it was time to celebrate Arts and Technology Academy. Before the coaches took the stage, a special appearance was made by all-star poet Xavier C. — you might remember him from his performance on MSNBC April 7 after the America SCORES National Poetry SLAM! — who wowed the crowd of guests with his powerful and poignant school closing poem.

Charles Robinson and Shannon Nelson
(middle) receive the Kennedy Commitment
Awards from last year's recipients.

Watching Xavier, you could be forgiven for thinking that ATA and its recent streak of four consecutive Poetry Slam! Golden Mic championships is just blessed with incredibly talented students. In fact, it's been a 13-year process led by a group of four coaches who have been there for their poet-athletes from Day 1.

Writing coaches Joyce Newton and Natasha Davis and soccer coaches Rodney Curry and Robert Lancaster developed a tight-knit bond over the years that translated to the teams they built both on the soccer field and in the writing classroom.

"We're like family," Curry said after the coaches received their award. "I'm so thankful to be a part of our team. We've been together so long."

The Teamwork Award was only the last of many given out during the celebratory event. First, the Kennedy Commitment Awards — named after DC SCORES founder Julie Kennedy — were given to Shannon Nelson of Brightwood Education Campus and Charles Robinson of Truesdell, two long-time coaches who have built up their school communities around DC SCORES.

Then the Mingo Roberts Coaching Excellence Award was given to Daryl Forte of Burrville, who has been a staple at his former elementary school since the beginning of the millennium (read our blog from the fall) at Mark "Popsie" Lewis, who is the most recognizable man in the Columbia Heights neighborhood for his incredible dedication to coaching two DC SCORES teams and our older-youth U-16 team (also profiled in the fall).

Next, DC SCORES alum and current high school student Jarmar L. took the stage to read a beautiful ode to coaches that demonstrated the recognition so many of our alumni have for the difference coaches like Popsie — who mentored Jarmar — make in their lives.

Upon completing his poem and receiving a rousing ovation, Jarmar stepped off the stage and was greeted by Lewis' big embrace.

The night also demonstrated the immediate impact that passionate coaches and volunteers can have on DC SCORES students. Rich Myers of KIPP KEY received the Rookie of the Year Award for his work leading the soccer program at the school that began programming this fall. About a month ago, I had the chance to watch a KIPP game. The boys team was getting beat soundly by their opponent, but what impressed me was that the kids didn't let the score affect in any way their joy in playing soccer with each other.

The event was held at the beautiful
LongView Gallery.

That's a rare sight in this win-win-win society, and all the credit goes to Myers for building a program with the right priorities.

Another first-year difference-maker is Justin Feltman, who received the Chris Richardson Community Service Award. Feltman found DC SCORES through a google search this past fall, and has already become one of our most dedicated volunteers — refereeing elementary school games throughout the city and helping at any big event he can.

From our veteran coaching teams to our rookies, the SCORE Awards shone the light on the very best of our 190 coaches and hundreds of volunteers who make DC SCORES' mission a reality every day after school in all corners of the District.

Thank you to LongView Gallery, our sponsors Volkswagen Group of America and CIT Group, event planner EVOKE and everyone who attended Tuesday's event for helping us celebrate such amazing leaders.

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Volunteer spotlight: Sean Tipton, longtime soccer referee

Sean with U.S. National Team member Julie Foudy.

Each month, DC SCORES highlights a volunteer that has made a significant impact on the program. It would be impossible to give 1,500 students throughout the District the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit www.DCSCORES.org. This month we highlight Sean Tipton, one of our star volunteer referees!

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DCS: Where are you from and where do you work?

I live in Takoma Park and I just turned 50 on Friday and I have two teenage sons. I work as the Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a professional group for physicians and other healthcare professionals.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I am a long time soccer geek and I played as a kid and in high school and college. I actually also coached college soccer as well. I heard about you guys through D.C. United because I am season ticket holder and I wanted to do some good, so DC SCORES was an awesome fit! I have been refereeing on and off for DC SCORES for 3-4 years now and have been to a couple Jamborees too!

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

I think DC SCORES does an awesome job of getting girls involved in sports even if it is not the standard in their cultures. For example, in many Hispanic cultures soccer is often thought of as a boy’s sport.

DCS: Describe your experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

I really love the combination of sports, poetry and academics. One of the things I tell people about DC SCORES is that they offer kids the opportunity to play soccer but also nudges them to get involved in the arts. And I think a lot of kids discover that they actually like something they didn’t know they liked.

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

I figure that at this point, anyone who can pay me to ref doesn’t truly need me and that’s why I like donating my time to DC SCORES.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

I watch a lot of soccer games and I go to sporting events with my own kids. I travel a lot for work as well.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Pele, because I was a kid in the 70s and that was when he first came to the States. At that point, soccer was just becoming popular and he was part of the reason I decided to try playing soccer. However, Muhammad Ali is my all-time favorite athlete and a genuine hero of mine. Meeting him was one of the great thrills of my life.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

Bruce Springsteen

DCS: Fun fact?

I have been interviewed on radio stations in four different countries: USA, Canada, Jamaica and England.

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Volunteer spotlight: Eric Ahearn, referee and office superstar

Each month, DC SCORES highlights a volunteer that has made a significant impact on the program. It would be impossible to give 1,500 students throughout the District the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit www.DCSCORES.org.

This month we highlight Eric Ahearn, who began with DC SCORES as a soccer referee and now is a huge help to our event-planning team in our office. Eric's varied roles for us illustrate the many different ways one can be a part of the DC SCORES team!

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DCS: Where are you from and where did you go to school?

I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, and I went to undergrad at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Right now, I am in my last semester of a Master’s program in International Development Studies at GWU.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I took a class last fall about peace building and community development, and the professor encouraged students to start getting involved domestically if they were interested in that kind of work. I originally saw coach postings on Idealist and DC SCORES seemed like an awesome fit.

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

I love the Olympics and the traditional definition of olympism is the combination of arts and culture, in addition to sports. And l love how DC SCORES truly captures that.

DCS: Describe your experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

I refereed the past couple weeks of the fall season and then got involved in helping around the office as well, preparing for the SCORE Awards. When I was at a High Five! Tour, (staff) mentioned needing some help with office work. I knew I would have a lighter course load this spring and instead of doing an internship with an organization that I had no connection to, I wanted to donate my time to something I really believed in. I will also be returning as a referee this spring!

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

When I believe in the mission and philosophy of an organization. I was definitely raised in a family where volunteering was important and I was a part of a fraternity where it was a central value as well.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

I love to cook and bake. I recently acquired a meat smoker so I have been spending a lot of time messing around with that in my backyard. I also have a random dream to make a friend’s wedding cake, so I’ve been practicing baking and decorating a lot too. It’s a stress reliever for me.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

I really don’t know, but I love the passion that goes into any sort of athletic competition and I like any sport that is fun to watch. I prefer to watch college sports over professional, so I am super excited for the NCAA Tournament.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

My favorite poet is Sarah Kay and my favorite musical group is Ra Ra Riot. But recently, Nickel Creek has made a comeback, so they are climbing back up my list as well.

DCS: What is your favorite food?

If I was on the death row and had only one meal left, I would go to the greasiest, hole in the wall Mexican food place and order two of everything off the menu.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Volunteer spotlight: Jamil Decker, soccer coach at Garrison Elementary School

DCS: Where are you from and where are you currently working/studying?

I grew up in Maryland and I work at the Penn Office as a patent examiner.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I played soccer with a friend who was involved and she told me about the organization. At the time, I was volunteering for another mentoring program and I had some very rewarding experiences with that. DC SCORES has been an even more perfect fit because it suits my love for soccer and it has allowed me to stay involved in the community.

DCS: What inspired you to switch from refereeing to coaching?

I had been refereeing consistently at Garrison Elementary School and at some point in the season I found out that their coach was unable to continue in his role. The school is right down the street from my house so I figured I should take over some of the coaching responsibilities while I was at it. Now I will be their head coach this coming season!

DCS: Describe your most enjoyable experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

Probably the Poetry Slam because I got to see the kids that I work with on the soccer field that are normally reserved go up on stage and perform in front of hundreds of people. It was pretty cool.

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

I think that kids need different perspectives and really benefit from spending time with people who grew up in different situations from themselves. Kids are still impressionable and I feel like I can make a bigger difference because of that.

DCS: What are you most excited for this season?

When I first started coaching we tied a bunch of games, but I am excited because we should have even more kids coming out this season and hopefully we can get some wins.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

I DJ part-time and I play soccer in a bunch of leagues around the city.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Probably Deion Sanders. I just remember watching him when I was growing up and seeing his touchdown returns and touchdown dances.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

Outkast

DCS: What is your favorite food?

Chicago deep dish pizza

DCS: Any other interesting information about yourself?

I was in a rap group in college.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Volunteer Spotlight: Natalie Larkin, assistant soccer and writing coach

Natalie Larkin coaches the youth at Thomson Elementary.

Each month, DC SCORES highlights a volunteer that has made a significant impact on the program. It would be impossible to give 1,500 students throughout the District the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit www.DCSCORES.org.

This month we highlight Natalie Larkin, a DC high school student and soccer player who volunteers as an assistant soccer and writing coach at Thomson Elementary School.

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DCS: Where are you from and where did you go to school?

I go to Wilson High School where I am senior. This fall I will be attending Princeton University to play soccer as an outside defender. I am really interested in studying International Relations and they have a great program there, but my major is still undecided.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

My mom read an article in The Washington Post and she knew I was looking for a volunteer position, especially one that had to do with soccer. It was a perfect fit!

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

I was definitely intrigued by the combination of poetry and soccer. I was lucky enough to be able to see both sides of the program because I coached at both the soccer and poetry practices. I was nervous at first because I don’t have a poetry background, but it was easy to transition to that mindset because the kids were so excited.

DCS: Describe your most enjoyable experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

I was unable to go to Thomson’s game days on Thursdays but my favorite thing was showing up to practice the following Fridays and all the kids would run up to me and tell me how it went and how well they had played. They were so excited and you could tell that they loved seeing and talking about their own improvement from week to week.

DCS: What motivates you to volunteer?

For me, soccer has given me something to really care about and I think everyone should have the opportunity to get involved in something and have the chance to get better at that thing. Soccer has been such a big part of my life and taught me so many things, and I just wanted to pass that on.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

Other than playing soccer, I like to hang out with my friends and I like to go running.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Megan Rapinoe plays on the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. She is my favorite because she plays my position and plays it in a way that I hope to emulate. She is also very cool and outspoken, and is one of the only players that play overseas when she is not playing for the national team.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

Beyonce is for sure my favorite. I listen to her newest album to pump myself up before soccer games.

DCS: What is your favorite food?

Burgers are my favorite and I don’t discriminate between burgers, so any restaurant will do.

Monday, December 16, 2013

Volunteer Spotlight: Sean Conway, special events helper and fill-in soccer coach

DCS: Where are you from and where did you go to school?

I am from Southern California and went to University of Redlands. I was recruited there as a football kicker and started for the team my freshman and sophomore years. I studied abroad in Italy my junior year, and I played a lot of soccer there. When I came back I ended up making the university varsity soccer team and played throughout my senior year of college. I came out to DC in 2009 after I graduated and worked for a military nonprofit.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

My employer gave me the opportunity to volunteer with different organizations during this October and November. Coincidentally, I remember seeing the DC SCORES logo on someone’s shirt when I was walking around Columbia Heights. I assumed it had something to do with kids and soccer and I had to look into it because I’ve played soccer all my life and have also done some coaching. That led me to volunteer at the Fall Frenzy!

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

I like that you have a comprehensive approach and don’t focus on just sports or just art. I think that a lot of times kids aren’t lucky enough to have parents that force them to do sports or after-school stuff. So it’s cool that DC SCORES provides that. I also feel like soccer is not as prevalent as football and basketball in the DC area, so getting kids thinking about soccer is pretty awesome.

DCS: Describe your most enjoyable experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

When I was given the opportunity to help with Imagine Hope Charter School at the Fall Frenzy. One of their coaches had to leave early, so I was asked to step in. I was hesitant because it’s hard to go into a group of kids that you have to convince to respect you and like you. But to be able to become a part of the team was really cool, and I was able to give them pointers on the field. By the end they wanted to take pictures with me and asked me to come to their practices. I’ve since maintained contact with the coach and plan on going to watch their games and practices in the spring.

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

I think a lot of times we get into the cycle of our own lives. This is cliché, but giving back feels good and it’s fun and you can meet people that share your passions and enjoy similar things. I know I had a lot of influential coaches and I just want to be able to give back in that same way. You hear stories about seeing kids blossom as a result of programs like DC SCORES, and to have the chance to be involved in that process was the motivation. We all have time to give, so why not?

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

I like to travel and play soccer. Like I said, I studied abroad in Rome when I was in college, and am constantly trying to figure out ways to go back. I’ve also been to Costa Rica and Mexico.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Zidane, because he’s always been a world class player and went out with a bang.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

I listen to every type of music, but I really like Tupac and I would consider him a poet.

DCS: What is your favorite food?

Sushi!

DCS: Any other interesting information about yourself?

I really enjoy writing and hiking, and I hope to start volunteering with DC SCORES more regularly.

Sean is hoping to be involved with DC SCORES on a daily basis come spring time, and we look forward to his continued commitment and support! Interested in volunteering like Sean? Sign up HERE!

Monday, November 25, 2013

Volunteer spotlight: Emily Heddon, soccer coach at Cardozo Middle School

Each month, DC SCORES highlights a volunteer that has made a significant impact on the program. It would be impossible to give 1,500 students throughout the District the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit www.DCSCORES.org.

This month we highlight Emily Heddon, who is completing her first season coaching at Cardozo Middle School -- and chose to do it as a volunteer!

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DCS: Emily, tell us about your role at Cardozo?

As an assistant soccer coach at Cardozo, I am there one practice a week and on the game days. I feel like as a former soccer player I can contribute to improving the kids’ technical skills. Because they’re middle schoolers, they are past just learning how to dribble. So I have been able to teach them different formations and more complicated skills.

DCS: Are you currently employed or a student? If so where?

Right now I am a graduate student at American University getting a Master’s in International Communications. I did my undergraduate degree at Albion College in Michigan, where I played all four years on the soccer team as the goalkeeper.

DCS: How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I stumbled onto your website doing a Google search, and I had been looking for a way to get involved in the community. Soccer and community service was the perfect combination for me.

DCS: What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

The combination of the soccer and poetry. Learning physical activity and self expression are definitely useful skills and habits that can be hard to develop, and is something the kids will be able to use throughout their lives.

DCS: Describe your most enjoyable experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

Last week at practice was probably one of the best moments. The kids didn't want to go in to eat snack because they wanted to stay outside and continue practicing. I don’t think my 12-year-old self would have given up snack for more practice, so it is really cool to see how much they love the game.

DCS: What motivates you to want to volunteer?

Community service has always been a part of my life. My mom has always been service-oriented and motivated me to do the same. I also just completed an AmeriCorps year in Michigan where I was a Resource Manager. I helped people in Michigan find social services and worked to build relationships with NGOs in the area. I just moved here after finishing that and wanted to connect to the community I am now living in.

DCS: What do you like to do with your free time?

Actually, I do a lot of homework, but I also play pick-up soccer on the weekends. My older sister just moved here too so we have been hanging out.

DCS: Who is your favorite athlete?

Growing up I would have to say Steve Yzerman, who played for the Detroit Red Wings. But within the past year I have really liked watching the U.S Men’s National Soccer Team. Michael Bradley is awesome. And obviously, as a goalkeeper, I like Hope Solo.

DCS: Who is your favorite singer or poet?

I really like classic rock, so I can’t pick just one. My favorite writer is probably Ernest Hemingway.

DCS: What is your favorite food?

Ice cream and chocolate!

DC: Any other interesting information about yourself?

In college, my jobs included being a snowboard instructor in the winter and I worked on the boat in the summer.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Accenture's Day of Service at DC SCORES

Accenture employees with DC SCORES
service-year members.

Written by Daniel Meloy
Senior Director of Development & Communications

Thousands of people in bright red shirts performed volunteer service throughout the greater Washington DC area on Monday, Nov. 11. It was all part of Accenture’s Day of Service - a company-wide effort to help nonprofit organizations in our community.

Six seasoned professionals from Accenture spent the afternoon at the DC SCORES offices with service-year staff from DC SCORES, Higher Achievement, and SportsChallenge to help our early-career staff prepare for their next career opportunity.

Service year staff, through organizations like Americorps, Avodah, Public Allies, and Coach Across America, spend a year gaining valuable professional experience while performing intensive community service work. Often, since many of the program participants are recent college graduates, this is their first “real” professional job. After their year of service, they might enter the workforce or choose other opportunities such as graduate school.

The team from Accenture developed and presented workshops on three areas they thought would be most helpful to our service year staff: resumes, interviewing and networking. They conducted small group discussions on these topics before ending the day with a panel discussion on their own career experiences and general advice.

The day proved to be invaluable for our staff, based on feedback they shared.

Jessica Gilbert, DC SCORES’ Middle School Poetry & Service-Learning Program Coordinator through Public Allies, said, “I just feel so rejuvenated after the workshop. There were so many useful tools and strategies that I wish I’d been taught a long time ago. This workshop was a game changer and I feel a lot of us will get a few steps closer to our dream jobs after learning those helpful tips.”

Ron Thurston, a Coach Across America Soccer Coordinator for DC SCORES, said, “It really gave us a head start on continuing our careers after we are finished here at DC SCORES. I feel like I don’t have to be nervous anymore going into an interview. I am so excited about my future!”

It was a beneficial day for the staff from Accenture, too. They left DC SCORES knowing they’d had a positive impact on young professionals who are deeply committed to serving the community.

Perhaps Dan Garvey, who coordinated the workshop for Accenture, summed it up best:

“One of Accenture’s corporate values is for employees to give their time and effort to help build a better community. We call this effort ‘Skills to Succeed.' Any company can donate money. However, donating time and effort provides a valuable experience for all involved parties. That was certainly the case for the entire Accenture team this past Monday. There is no doubt that the future is in good hands because of programs like DC SCORES and the fantastic young men and women who are making our communities better each day.”

Learn more about Accenture's community service.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Volunteer spotlight: Natasha Sleigh, elementary school soccer referee

Natasha Sleigh refs the H.D. Cooke-Brookland game.

I’ve been refereeing at Brookland (Education Campus) and they have been doing co-ed games, and every game both the boys and the girls are so respectful of each other. It’s just amazing to see the boys be conscious of the girls playing on the field. Also, last game was pretty intense. One of the kids got hurt, but he just shrugged it off and wanted to keep playing. And I was just like yeah, that’s the type of attitude you should have.

What motivates you to want to volunteer?

I think being a part of your community is important. I just recently moved here in the past year, and I didn’t grow up here and was having trouble feeling connected to the community. I think volunteering helps you connect and you can meet people and the kids in your neighborhood. I know when I was growing up, if there had been a program like DC SCORES in my neighborhood it would have been amazing. I feel that if this program is important to those kids then it’s important to me too.

What do you like to do with your free time?

I have two dogs that I adore and I like to go running with them. I also enjoy reading, watching new TV shows, D.C. United games, and spending time with my friends.

Who is your favorite athlete?

I would say Abby Wambach. She is a strong player and it is so cool that she was a guest judge at the Poetry Slam! a few years back. Also, as a Seattle native, I like Kasey Keller, the goalkeeper for the Seattle Sounders.

Who is your favorite singer or poet?

I’ve been getting into John Legend; he has a new album that is awesome.

What is your favorite food?

Anything with a lot of carbs, particularly pasta and breads.

Any other interesting information about yourself?

My rugby nickname was Slayer, because my last name is Sleigh.

Monday, August 12, 2013

Volunteer Spotlight: Tommy Cerisola, Washington International School student

Each month, DC SCORES highlights a volunteer that has made a significant impact on the program. It would be impossible to give over 1,450 students throughout the District the quality programming they receive without the help of our volunteers. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit www.DCSCORES.org.

This month we highlight Tommy Cerisola, a student at the Washington International School who is a counselor at summer camp and looks forward to getting further involved with the program during the fall and spring seasons.

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Are you currently employed/student? If so where?

I am a rising sophomore at the Washington International School

How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

The whole community service organization at WIS asked me to participate at DC SCORES because they knew that since I was born I’ve played soccer. They also know that I really like poetry and that I write poetry.

How long have you been volunteering with DC SCORES?

This is my first my year volunteering for DC SCORES as a (summer camp)counselor, but I look forward to volunteering in the fall and spring as a coach or referee.

What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

What I find most interesting is the combination of soccer and education to help underprivileged kids, who don’t have the opportunity to be on a team from a young age. DC SCORES gives them that. I found teaching the kids out on the field about the game makes the relationship with them off the field a lot stronger. Seeing them play soccer and write poetry gives you a lot of insight into the kids. It allows them to express themselves both in soccer and poetry – giving them a voice, which is really important.

Describe your most enjoyable experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

When we went to the zoo, because it was well organized, a great experience, everyone had fun, both kids and counselors. Everyone enjoyed learning about the animals and seeing them in their habitat.

What motivates you to want to volunteer?

Giving the kids the opportunity to be infinitely positive – playing soccer with them, experiencing an organized sport. When I was growing up, this was crucial being on a team. I want to provide the same to them and to their childhood.

What do you like to do with your free time?

Reading, playing soccer, playing tennis, and running, to stay in shape for soccer. I just finished Catcher In The Rye – it was really solid. I learned a lot of new vocabulary, which was great. And now I’m reading The Magician’s Assistant, but it’s really long so I’m taking my time with it.

Who is your favorite athlete?

Messi. He is Argentine, and we have so much in common. We are from the same country, city, and religion. He is a great player and a great person. He has organizations that focus on helping the underprivileged. Despite growing up in a tough environment and dealing with all of that, he comes out as a great soccer player and great person. I was born in Potomac (Md.) but my parents are originally from Argentina. I know the culture and the language because I attend the Spanish school every Saturday.

Who is your favorite singer or poet? What music are you into right now?

Bono. He is a great person when he is not singing and I enjoy his music so much. I am into rock, classic rock. Led Zeppelin, the classic ones.

If you could only eat one food for the next month, what would it be?

Pasta. Before games and after games, I love pasta so much.

Any other interesting information about yourself?

I just love playing soccer and look forwarding to being involved with DC SORES!

Monday, July 8, 2013

Volunteer spotlight: Sam Zivin, KIPP WILL Academy soccer coach

This month we highlight Sam Zivin, who volunteers as the main soccer coach at KIPP WILL in Ward 2. Sam recently took a few minutes to talk about his experience volunteering for DC SCORES.

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Are you currently employed or a student? If so, where?

I am a teacher at KIPP DC WILL Academy. I teach seventh and eighth grade special education. I am also the eighth grade Level Chair, which basically means I’m in charge of the eighth grade. I run teacher and student meetings, teacher meetings, schedule field trips and sometimes I have to play a disciplinary role.

How did you get involved with DC SCORES?

I first started at KIPP four years ago and we didn’t have a soccer team. We had everything we needed – a soccer coach, a soccer field at our disposal, but no team. We tried getting involved in the charter league. But nothing ever happened, and parents were getting frustrated. We first connected with DC SCORES through the U.S. Soccer Foundation. We had been working with the Foundation when they were building the turf field across the street from KIPP. We started talking with Kenny (DC SCORES’ Athletic Director at the time) and we finally got a team going. I guess that was two years ago, and we have been in the league ever since.

How long have you been volunteering with DC SCORES?

It’s been about two and a half years – I think it has been phenomenal. For both me and my kids, it has been a great experience. I grew up playing soccer. I started playing when I was 5, but I never had the opportunity to coach. Obviously, I work with kids, and having the opportunity to work with my students out on the field makes our relationship in the classroom a lot stronger. It gives me a lot of insight into the students, which has been a real plus.

Also, being active three days a week playing with the kids -- having to come up with strategies on how to coach -- has been a really good thing for me and I’ve really enjoyed it. I should also say, it’s been challenging, as well as positive. It’s been challenging because I’ve been starting with a team that has never played soccer before; sixth- and seventh-graders who have never played before. It’s been a challenge for me to make it interesting and also instill those basic skills.

What made you come back this year?

Oh, I’m in every year. For me, it’s about the kids. The kids see me every day. At this point – two years into coaching – it’s established at our school that we have a soccer team. I could not let the kids down by saying I’m not doing it. Also, we have a lot of returning players that I wanted to coach this year. From a logistics standpoint, there is not a lot we have to do. DC SCORES provides the equipment, the buses, the teams – all I have to do is show up and coach. For other leagues, it always seems like our games are canceled. So to know we have games and equipment, makes the logistics very easy.

What do you find most interesting about DC SCORES?

I find the concept of the poetry and soccer to be very intriguing. KIPP has extended school day, meaning that the school day will often run till 5pm, so we don’t have time to implement the poetry. But the idea of having the kids work on their creative side – it’s an intriguing connection on how it relates to soccer. I hope that one day we can implement that program. There is no way I can do both of those things, but one of the things that our kids need specifically are more creative outlets. I think we are really good at giving them what they need academically, but there are times I feel we can do more for the creative outlets they have access to. DC SCORES enables them to have a voice both with poetry and soccer.

Describe your most enjoyable experience volunteering for DC SCORES

The camaraderie I see my group of young men have together is always the most enjoyable thing. When I see them get together and I see an eighth-grader leading a sixth-grader in stretching and everyone listening to him and he is being empowered by that experience. When I see an eighth-grader helping out a sixth-grader in the hall because they are on a team together, I know that would not happen otherwise.

Everyone is working together toward a common goal; it is the most rewarding experience. We have not had a lot of success in terms of wins over the year, which has been frustrating for me as a coach and for my players. But I know that overall, my team shows a lot of heart and a lot of character and they enjoy being out there and playing together.

What motivates you to want to volunteer?

What motivates me is giving the kids the opportunity to be a part of something really positive, specifically organized sports after school. A lot of kids play sports but have not experienced an organized sport. For me growing up as a young kid, that was so important. Every day after school I was involved in some sort of team, so knowing what a big part of my childhood that was, providing that opportunity in their life is really important.

What do you like to do with your free time?

I really enjoy sleeping. I try to do that as much as possible. I like a good nap. I like to spend as much time outside as possible. I also love spending time with my beautiful fiancé. I am recently engaged! I like to bike – I bike to work every day. Honestly, when I’m not doing DC SCORES or at school, I’m chillin’.

Who is your favorite athlete?

I have to say, without a doubt, Walter Payton, No. 34, the great Chicago Bears running back because 1) He wasn’t really a big guy and I also am not a really big guy – but he played like he was a big guy because he would never run out of bounds and he would also try to hit the other guy before he got hit. He was a player with tremendous heart, even though he wasn’t the biggest or fastest. And 2) He was a man of high character and value – I don’t think you see that a lot any more.

Who is your favorite singer or poet? What music are you into right now?

My favorite singer could go two different directions. I really like Neil Young, but then in the toner direction I’m also a big R. Kelly fan.

If you could only eat one food for the next month, what would it be?

Mash potatoes. I really love mash potatoes. And if not mash potatoes, it would be popcorn. And if not popcorn, it would be beans and rice.

Any other interesting information about yourself?

I’m excited for next season!