Empowering Coaches & Communities: CJBF Partners with Soccer Without Borders

At the CJ Brown Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of sports — not just for the athletes on the field, but for the communities they represent. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Soccer Without Borders (SWB) to advance coach education and empower the next generation of leaders.

Initially launched in 2024, the partnership has already secured funding for coach education for the CJBF, including the upcoming workshop on March 22, 2025 (learn more here!).

Soccer Without Borders is an internationally recognized non-profit dedicated to using soccer as a vehicle for positive social change. Founded in 2005, SWB works with underrepresented youth, providing them with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect through the game of soccer. With a mission to build a more inclusive and equitable world, SWB’s programs emphasize teamwork, leadership, and cultural exchange, making them a perfect partner for the CJ Brown Foundation’s vision.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

Our collaboration with SWB is rooted in a shared commitment to education, equity, and empowerment. Both organizations recognize that coaches are more than just instructors of technical skills and facilitators of the game— they’re mentors, role models, and community builders. By investing in coach education, we’re investing in the long-term development of not only individual players but entire communities.

The Coach Education Initiative

Through this partnership, the CJ Brown Foundation will support SWB’s efforts to provide comprehensive training and resources for coaches working with underserved youth. The initiative will focus on:

Skill Development

Equipping coaches with social and emotional reflections to build their own abilities to address team and player management in settings that are challenged by a diversity of backgrounds, technical abilities, and external social-economic realities.

Leadership Training

Empowering coaches to serve as positive role models and mentors for the young people they lead during the important after-school hours and during their time of play.

Cultural Competency

Preparing coaches to work effectively with diverse communities and foster inclusive team environments that are safe, positive, and foster a greater sense of belonging and accountability.

Early Success and Future Plans

Already, this partnership has produced outstanding results. Coaches who’ve participated in SWB’s training programs report greater confidence, stronger team cohesion, and a deeper understanding of how to support their players beyond the game. Moving forward, we plan to expand these educational opportunities and bring even more coaches into the fold.

How You Can Support This Mission

This work wouldn’t be possible without the support of our communities. Here’s how you can get involved:

Donate

Help fund coach education programs and resources! Donate to the CJ Brown Foundation by visiting our website or one of our annual events!

Attend

Join one of CJBF x SWB’s workshops! These free workshops include a variety of coaching, leadership, and socio-emotional skills that are applicable to many

Spread the word

Raise awareness about the CJBF and SWB initiatives. A witness in many communities around the world, sports is a powerful tool to drive social change and foster belonging. Follow, share, and connect with CJBF, SWB, and other outstanding organizations striving to lead forward and make a difference.

TOGETHER, WE CAN

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The partnership between the CJ Brown Foundation and Soccer Without Borders represents more than just a collaboration — it’s a movement toward stronger, more connected communities via the growth gained by participants in their coach education. By equipping coaches with the tools they need to lead young players and teams, we’re shaping better environments for the athletes who, when they leave our programs, depart with lessons of teamwork, conflict resolution, and self-management that are transferable to their daily lives beyond the field of play.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

To learn more or support our mission, visit the CJ Brown Foundation website.