CHICAGO (July 14, 2022) - Chicago Fire FC today announced its partnership with Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, organizers of the largest Latino festival of its kind in the country, Fiesta Del Sol.
Through this partnership, Pilsen Neighbors Community Council (PNCC) will assist with Club’s community outreach efforts specifically within neighborhoods on the southwest side of Chicago.
The partnership will begin on Thursday, July 28 during the 50th anniversary of Fiesta del Sol, where the Fire will support youth soccer clinics and provide various activations throughout the weekend, including a booth with games, CF97 merchandise and exclusive fan giveaways.
In addition, the Fire and Fiesta del Sol will join together for the first time to host a Soccer In The Community Clinic (SITC) for children and teenagers. Coaches from the Fire’s SITC program will lead training sessions at the clinics which will take place on Friday, July 29 and Saturday, July 30 at the Benito Juárez Community Academy soccer field. All those interested in participating in the free clinics can find out more information and register here.
On Sunday, July 31 the Fire will help to manage an eight-team youth soccer tournament, providing t-shirts for all participants to wear. The winning team from the tournament will receive a complimentary ticket allotment for the Club’s home match at Soldier Field against Charlotte FC on Sept. 17.
In addition to the festival activities, the Fire will also provide three college scholarships to students from the Pilsen community, while continuing to offer community engagement events featuring appearances from Fire players.
“We are very honored that the Chicago Fire has become our newest partner and even happier that their mission in the community aligns with PNCC mission,” Juan F. Soto, Executive Director of Pilsen Neighbors Community Council said. “Together we hope to reach as many communities as we can on the southwest side of Chicago. As both organizations work with Chicago Public Schools and are focused on engaging school aged youth, this partnership is a natural fit.”
The partnership between the Fire and Pilsen Neighbors Community Council will continue throughout the year, as the Club will support the Leadership Development Institute and participate in the Pilsen Neighborhood Community Council and Pilsen Chamber of Commerce.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Pilsen Community Council on Fiesta Del Sol weekend and beyond,” said Chicago Fire FC VP of Community Relations Jessica Yavitz. “The kick-off weekend’s festivities are just the beginning of an incredible partnership that will continue to strengthen our relationship with the local community and provide more opportunities for Chicago’s youth to participate in sport, while helping to set them up for future success.”
