Heart of the City is a brand committed to providing an accessible youth soccer program and access to high-quality programs and experiences for athletes. With a mission to improve soccer skills and teach the importance of good sportsmanship, they also provide educational support for success in learning environments and post-secondary opportunities. This brand models teamwork and leadership skills through mentoring and community volunteering, while also developing social and emotional awareness. Heart of the City strives to connect athletes to colleges and coaches and promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusivity.

Heart of the City's purpose is to level the playing field for over 600 youth in underserved communities in Lake County. Using soccer as a vehicle, their programs build social-emotional and leadership skills, provide academic support, and offer stackable credentials for postsecondary education and employment success. They value determination, dedication, desire, and discipline in their players. Founded in 2014, Heart of the City initially addressed the lack of access to quality soccer programs.

Over time, they expanded their offerings to include college and career-readiness programming, exposing youth to various post-secondary pathways beyond traditional four-year colleges. They also provide social support referral services to connect youth and families to necessary resources. Contact Heart of the City to learn more about their impactful work.