Verde Leaders, formerly known as Upper Ninety is a positive youth development program that combines soccer with social-emotional learning, Restorative Justice, and mindfulness in order to help low-income youth find personal and academic success.
Our Mission: Equip teens from low-income Austin neighborhoods with a community of support and the social, emotional, and practical tools needed to thrive in today’s world.
How it Works: Verde Leaders provides opportunities for students in the classroom, on the field, and in their communities.
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After-school training: Students train twice a week on-site at their schools, where they develop soccer skills and critical SEL skills like communication and conflict resolution.
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In-school support: During the school day, students meet one-on-one and in small groups with Social Workers to work toward personal and academic goals.
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Community Engagement: On the weekends, students from across East Austin come together for educational field trips, family days, and scrimmages –right in their own neighborhoods.
Our Impact:
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390+ students served since 2017
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31 schools represented
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850+ hours of education through soccer
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6 program graduates hired
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