DLA Piper and SolarWinds recently completed their third year as presenting partners of the Verde Leaders program at Burnet Middle School — a milestone that marks continued commitment to youth development through soccer.
“Seeing Burnet students step up as leaders—on the pitch and in their community—is exactly why we’ve stayed committed to Verde Leaders.” Said Jenne Barbour, VP of Corporate Marketing, SolarWinds. "This isn’t just a partnership; it’s a movement that empowers students to dream bigger, aim higher, and bring others along with them. SolarWinds is honored to play a part in helping those sparks catch fire.”
Now in its second year, the Employee Ambassador Program has deepened that impact by inviting committed employees from both organizations to volunteer more frequently and build lasting connections with students. These meaningful interactions are helping students gain confidence, expand their support networks, and develop life skills that go far beyond the pitch.
"4ATX Foundation continues to positively impact and transform young lives here in Austin through its Verde Leaders program.” Said Joseph Fore, Austin Managing Partner, of DLA Piper. “We are truly inspired by these student-athletes and their dedication both on and off the field.”
To celebrate the end of the 2024–25 school year, students in the program received a new soccer ball to help keep their skills sharp and stay active throughout the summer.
Burnet students have also begun stepping into leadership themselves. Recently, several volunteered at a 4ATX Foundation elementary clinic held at Q2 Stadium, continuing the cycle of giving back and inspiring the next generation.
One of those students, Angel Colop, just wrapped up three years with the program and was selected to participate in 4ATX’s new Verde Futures: Leadership in Motion initiative. As part of this experience, four standout Verde Leaders — including Angel — will travel to New York City to visit the headquarters of both Major League Soccer and Powerade. The trip is designed to help them grow in new environments, connect with mentors, and see firsthand what’s possible when their passion and effort are met with opportunity.
