Everett’s Hand In Hand Helping Kids, Looking For Mentors

Today marks the start of a two-day soccer camp at Kasch Park organized by Hand in Hand for about 170 kids in the Casino Road area of south Everett. The program is part of the Hand In Hand/Irish Soccer teams that have grown from about 20 kids three years ago to nearly 300 today.

Jorge Galindo has been coaching soccer in the Casino Road area for 16 years. He tells MyEverettNews.com the camps take kids from ages 8 to 17 and give them positive things to do.

“We like to build a family atmosphere, for example today after the camp gets over at four, we’ll have a big meal for the kids and their parents thanks to several restaurants who are partnering with us,” Galindo said. “We like to keep the kids busy in the summer.”

Galindo added, “We need more adults to come join us as mentors, to show interest in the kids. You don’t need to be an experienced soccer coach, just someone who is willing to be involved in a positive way.”

Several Everett Police Officers are volunteering for the two day camp but more adult mentors and role models are needed throughout the summer.

In addition to the soccer camp, Hand in Hand Kids operates a Village Impact Project that works with families and service providers in the Casino Road-Madison area to build stronger community connections. Events include:

Field trips for children and their families. The Fifth Ave Theater, Rock Climbing Classes, The Woodland Park Zoo, Hiking, Seattle Art Museum and The Pacific Science Center to name a few.

Weekly Coffee Mom’s Group, local mom’s meet for coffee hour where they receive valuable information on community resources and connect with local business owners, leaders & service providers.

Monthly community clothing give away the first Saturday of the month from 11am-1pm.

Emergency basic needs help for families in crisis.

Bilingual Community Navigator Advocacy Services.

Soccer Program provides coaching, mentoring & accountability.

Homework clubs at local schools.

Community dinners and holiday support.

If you’d like to help you can contact Jorge Galindo by email at JGalindo@handinhandkids.org or call their office in Everett at (425) 374-2461. There is also a lot of information and ways to help available on their website.