ABOUT THE TEAM
The Houston Dynamo are an American Soccer club that competes in the MLS. Based in the greater Houston area, the organization works to provide countless charitable programs and opportunities that give back to the community.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Dynamo Goals – This program was created to educate kids on their health through the integration of soccer and education to their daily lives. The team sends players and coaches to various schools where they deliver presentations regarding the importance of eating healthy, working hard in school, and staying fit. All schools in the greater Houston area that serve underprivileged students are eligible to participate.
Dynamo For a Day – This program spotlights local kids who are inspirational to others in any given field. Selected candidates who demonstrate a positive attitude while facing hardships, extraordinary academic dedication, or remarkable commitment to improving the community are given a one-of-a-kind experience including an invitation to a practice, game day tickets, and on field access.
Just Kick It – This program is done in partner with the Houston Dash, in which they work to bring the game of soccer to underserved youth in the area who participate in events at The Boys and Girls Club of Houston. Selected students receive 2 hours of training per week throughout the fall semester where they can sharpen their skills and deepen their knowledge of the game.
Kroger Classroom Champs – The organization partnered with Kroger to recognize and reward outstanding educators in the Houston area. A board of stakeholders review all nominated teachers and select five winners – four runners up are honored at a media event, given game tickets, a $1,000 Kroger gift card, and a $250 grant to their school; the overall Classroom Champ receives a shopping spree at a Kroger with a player, a pep rally at their school, and more.
Surprise Practice Series – This program is also done in conjunction with their NWSL counterparts the Houston Dash. The teams surprise local soccer programs with players from the two teams. All age levels are eligible to participate and can fill out an interest form on the team’s website.
SOCCER STARTS AT HOME & CHARITIES WEEK
These are the organization’s two main initiatives, both of which are done in collaboration with the Houston Dash of the National Women’s Soccer League. Soccer Starts at Home is a philosophy derived from the highly regarded Tom Byer that teaches the importance of learning soccer at a young age, and the vital role that parents play in childhood development. The Dynamo and Dash created a unique program that helps to advance both of these ideals. Charities Week is a week-long fundraiser capped off by games by both the Dynamos and Dash in which profits as well as donations go towards Dynamos Charities. Outside of the two games themselves, the fundraiser includes giveaways, auctions, and signed paraphernalia from the teams.
CHARITABLE PARTNERS
In order to fund these many programs, the team has partnered with five charitable sponsors and also accepts donations at all times via their website.