As part of the ongoing Verde Nets initiative, Austin FC nonprofit arm 4ATX Foundation & Netspend are once again partnering up to provide new soccer nets to local programs and facilities. Recently, Houston Elementary became the recipients of the second Verde Nets donation of 2024, led by 4ATX Foundation fellows from the 2023-24 Netspend Verde Fellowship program.
As part of the Verde nets donation, the fellows hosted Houston Fútbol Fest alongside students, teachers and parents of Houston. The event featured soccer games to break-in the new nets, music, prizes and food from Houston PTA.
"We're proud to continue the Verde Nets program alongside Netspend," said 4ATX Foundation Executive Director Kaitlin Mauro. "The program continues to equip schools with resources that allow youth with a place to play right in their own community. It's even better to see our college fellows lead the event and get tangible experience working in the community.”
"As a founding sponsor partner of Austin FC, seeing our Netspend brand on Verde jersey sleeves and associated with 4ATX's work in our community is a huge source of pride," said Yvonne Devany, Vice President of Global Partnerships for Netspend and other Ouro brands. "We treasure our connection to this organization and are thrilled to have been able to donate over 170 soccer nets to select Austin area organizations in need."
The 4ATX & Netspend Verde Fellowship is a special year-long opportunity designed for two exceptional first-generation college students. Throughout this unique program, participants dive into real-world business experiences, learning the ropes of day-to-day operations. They also take on exciting projects aimed at engaging and benefiting their local communities. Plus, they receive valuable guidance and support from Netspend mentors, helping them navigate their academic and professional journeys. As a bonus, each fellow is awarded a $7,500 scholarship, providing financial assistance as they pursue their educational and career goals.
Together, the 4ATX Foundation and Netspend have distributed over 170 nets to schools and programs that need them. This allows kids to get active and play sports, especially in places where equipment is hard to come by.
