Victory In Texas: St. George Soccer

Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters:

The Columbus St. George Ethiopian Sports Club is a non-profit organization based in Columbus, Ohio. Our mission is to use soccer as a forum through which to promote wellness and unity in the Ethiopian community. The team is composed largely of immigrant youth and young adults; through soccer, we promote the maintenance of healthy lifestyles, community pride and unity, responsible behavior, and cultural exchange. As a sports and cultural organization, we represent the nearly 30,000 Ethiopians in Central Ohio.

Each year we compete on behalf of the Columbus Ethiopian community at the Ethiopian Soccer Federation in North America (ESFNA) Festival in July. At this momentous event, thousands of people come together to enjoy an array of cultural experiences, from concerts and health fairs, to men, women, and children’s soccer games. This year the ESFNA Festival is in Dallas, Texas, with an expected 50,000 attendees.

Although we collect monies from membership fees and yearly fundraisers, this income does not adequately cover expenses; our participation in the tournament and festival is largely dependent on our sponsors.

I have been selected by the community to help raise $10,000, which will help cover travel, accommodations, and training for the team to participate in the tournament; I would greatly appreciate your helping me to reach my individual goal of $2,500. With your financial contribution, you join our organization in its mission of community uplift.

Our fundraiser is entitled, “Victory In Texas!” This charge to victory is not only about winning the soccer tournament— it is a call to action amongst the Ethiopian community to strengthen our relationships within and outside of the Ethiopian community, as we celebrate our rich heritage.

On behalf of the Columbus St. George Soccer Team, I would appreciate a donation in whatever amount is comfortable for you.

Thank you for your support as we march toward “Victory In Texas!”

Desalen Golla