Soccer Without Borders (SWB) uses soccer to foster belonging, learning, and personal growth among newcomer youth and their families. The organization’s programs help youth build confidence, connection, and community as they navigate a new country.
To engage youth in soccer, SWB operates two out-of-school programs: the after-school TEAM Program and summer camps. The TEAM program, an acronym that stands for “trabajando en equipo aprendemos más” or “working as a team we learn more,” spans 28 weeks during the school year. Facilitated on school campuses, the program combines soccer, English instruction, and social-emotional learning. In line with the goals of the TEAM program, summer camps are designed to keep participants engaged to prevent language and learning loss through the summer months.
The need for these programs is particularly urgent for newcomer youth, especially in the face of heightened anti-immigrant sentiment, changes to humanitarian immigration protections, and increased scrutiny of refugee communities. For newcomer youth, integration into school and community life can be particularly difficult, as placement in grade level is based on age rather than English proficiency or previous educational experiences. This often contributes to frustration, demotivation, and challenges in building both academic success and social connection. Through SWB programs, participants foster friendships, strengthen English language skills, and develop confidence.
The impact of SWB speaks for itself. So far in 2026, SWB has served nearly 800 unique participants, representing 37 different countries of origin, and 32 primary languages, with many participants receiving support with practicing speaking and understanding English. Among Denver-area middle and high school participants, 89 percent reported trusting their coaches and instructors and 86.4 percent reported making new friends. Beyond its direct programming, SWB invests in participants’ long-term growth through its Youth Leaders Program. gain paid work experience, mentorship, and practical leadership skills as assistant coaches, referees, and camp counselors. These positions provide participants with important first employment opportunities in the United States.
In a period of uncertainty and fear for immigrant and refugee communities, the organization adapted its approach to engaging with newcomer youth. In early 2025, SWB removed country of origin and U.S. arrival date from registration forms in response to the evolving safety and privacy concerns facing newcomer families. The organization also distributed Know Your Rights resources and Family Preparedness packets, completed a third-party data security audit, and retrained staff on protocols for responding to law enforcement requests at program sites. Beyond delivering programs, SWB adjusted its practices to build trust and ensure the safety of participants and their families.
The Metro Regional Council is proud to support an organization that leverages the power of soccer to help newcomer youth build belonging, confidence, and connection in their communities. To learn more about Soccer Without Borders, click here.
