MLS Works hosts community events during All-Star Week
The first week of August saw a number of events hosted by MLS WORKS that highlighted the importance of community action and social activism in sport. Coinciding with MLS All-Star Week, MLS WORKS ran various programs along with partners including Beyond Sport, Chicago Fire Soccer Club, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, ESPN, Wells Fargo and Special Olympics.
On July 31, MLS WORKS and the Chicago Fire Soccer Club kicked off proceedings by hosting an All-Star Community Day at Gage Park – a popular community area located in Chicago’s southwest side. Community members participated in age-based soccer activities presented by Advocare and led by Chicago Fire Youth Coaches. The event included a soccer skills challenge area, inflatables, games, a free play zone and music & food for participants and guests.
On the same day, MLS WORKS, the Chicago Fire, the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Southern New Hampshire University unveiled two mini-pitches in the Chicagoland area, with the help of MLS Commissioner Don Garber, Andrew Hauptman and Mayor Emanuel. Following the official dedication, the mini-pitch hosted the All-Star Community Day Youth Tournament championship match, presented by AdvoCare. The championship match consisted of two teams comprised of Chicago Fire Juniors players with MLS All-Stars including Dax McCarty, Johan Kappelhof, Greg Garza, Tim Howard serving as celebrity coaches.
On August 1, The Beyond Soccer Panel discussed soccer’s role in society to the sport's ability to help drive positive social change. Hosted by MLS WORKS and Beyond Sport, and moderated by Rob Stone (MLS on FOX) and Katie Witham (FOX Sports' MLS Reporter), the event featured key roles for MLS partners, NGOs, ownership, and current and former professional players.
MLS WORKS also partnered with ESPN to host the Fourth Annual Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Soccer Match at Toyota Park. The two Unified teams competed in an East v. West, 11 v. 11 match and played a thrilling performance that ended in a 2-2 tie. The match highlighted the talents of Unified athletes and partners representing players from all 22 MLS clubs.
Finally, MLS WORKS and Wells Fargo teamed up to give back to the city of Chicago through a day of community service. The day began with a brief kick-off rally before buses took volunteers to various community organizations throughout the city.