After receiving a $500 Neighbourhood Small Grant, I organized a youth soccer camp aimed at bringing children together for a day of learning, teamwork, and fun. The camp took place on July 6th in the gym at Sunset Community Centre and welcomed children ages 6 to 13. My goal was to create an inclusive, energetic environment where kids of all experience levels could participate, build confidence, and enjoy the sport.
To begin planning, I first contacted the Sunset Community Centre to inquire about availability and secure a booking for their gym. Once that was confirmed, I purchased insurance for all participating children to ensure the event was safe and properly covered. Promotion was an important part of the project, so I created a pamphlet advertising the camp and distributed it at the community centre and local elementary schools. I also designed a registration form with a QR code to make sign‑ups fast and accessible for parents. Through this form, I collected parental consent for photography so families could feel comfortable with event photos being taken.
In total, 12 children registered, and all 12 showed up on the day of the camp, which was wonderful to see. The session began with warm-ups followed by skill‑building drills in dribbling, passing, and shooting. I made sure the activities were adaptable so beginners felt supported while more experienced players remained challenged. The biggest highlight of the day was a friendly mini‑tournament where the kids formed teams and competed for small prizes. The energy during the tournament was high, and it was heartwarming to see players encourage one another, celebrate goals together, and include everyone regardless of skill level.
The atmosphere throughout the camp was positive, enthusiastic, and full of laughter. Many parents shared that their children enjoyed the experience and were eager to participate again in the future. As the organizer, I learned a great deal, especially about coordinating logistics, communicating with families, and creating a welcoming environment for youth. The project also reminded me of the power of community: with a modest grant and a bit of planning, it’s possible to bring people together and give kids a chance to connect, play, and grow.
Overall, the soccer camp was a meaningful and rewarding experience, and I am grateful to NSG for helping make it possible.
