Dreams of emigration begin when youth in Central America feel there is nothing for them at home. Being in sports provides healthy activity and gives teens a place where they feel they belong. If a teenager is part of a soccer team, there is much less temptation to join a gang because they have a place. Also, social pressure from their teammates can encourage a valuable goalie or forward to not attempt the dangerous trip “North”. They are an essential part of the team!

On June 17, 2024, Scott Brink, Chair of EPIC’s Board of Directors, and Paul McKay attended a soccer tournament in San Jacinto organized by Aura Sequen, director of the “Goals for Kids” youth program. They watched 3 soccer games while rain showers came and went. The program now has 5 co-ed teams, and the players range in age from 9 to 17 years old. They are all very enthusiastic soccer players!

In addition to teaching the kids soccer, Aura gives classes in vehicle and traffic safety. More Guatemalan youth in their teens and early 20’s die in traffic accidents than from any other cause. The teens find the traffic safety classes very interesting, but they are also required in order to play soccer.

The Goals For Kids program emphasizes how to stay healthy, how to work together as a team, and – most importantly – how to build the confidence needed to take on life.