GAMBIER, Ohio -- Prompted by the aftermath of George Floyd's murder last year, members of the Kenyon College men's soccer team decided to take steps to combat systemic racism. Following a couple of social media posts, the team knew that just wouldn't be enough.

"In the spring of 2020, members of the team had a series of readings and discussions about racism," explained Sam Hosmer-Quint, now a senior. "Through the discussions, we decided that raising money for local organizations was one of the best ways that we could participate in and create change in our community."

The discussions led to the decision to raise money for Saturday Hoops, a nonprofit in Cincinnati, Ohio, that provides safe programming for kids after school hours. 

As the 2021-22 academic year drew near, members of the team met again to decide on further fundraising plans. Approximately 10 organizations were brought forth for consideration. After a vote, the team landed on Fugees Family, a nonprofit in nearby Columbus and Cleveland,  as well as Georgia, that is devoted to working with child survivors of war.

Members of the Kenyon team have taken it upon themselves to promote their Fugees Family fundraiser through their social media accounts and by talking with friends, family, and supporters about it.  

According to Fugees Family website, "the Fugees organization empowers refugees to integrate successfully into their new country by providing them the support and structure they need to realize their vast potential."

One of the ways that integration develops is through playing the sport of soccer, which, naturally, caught the attention of the Kenyon team. Members of the Kenyon team will continue to fundraise throughout the season. If you are interested in supporting their cause, there are several ways you can go about it.   

Option 1: A flat donation to Fugees Family on behalf of the team via PledgeIt: https://pledgeit.org/kcms

Option 2:  A pledge to donate x amount per goal scored during the Kenyon soccer team's season. Over the last five seasons, the Kenyon team averaged 60 goals, with a low of 44 and a high of 74. See our PledgeIt website to donate! You may also participate through Venmo by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/5VJeGqQZ2ds2rb2y9