Join us at the heart of Philadelphia's vibrant soccer community as we embark on yet another spectacular evening at the Legends of Soccer Fundraising Gala, held at the iconic Crystal Tea Room. By partnering with us, sponsoring the event, contributing exclusive auction items, or volunteering your time, you aren't merely supporting a gala; you're championing a cause that uplifts entire communities and transforms lives through the beautiful game. Dive deep into an experience where every action echoes far beyond the pitch, creating lasting impacts in the children of Chester and its neighborhoods. Be an integral part of this journey, shoulder-to-shoulder with luminaries and legends, and together, let's amplify soccer's profound potential to make a difference. Your involvement will not just elevate the event – it will etch your mark in a legacy of community betterment and soccer's ever-growing narrative in America.

OUR 2024 GALA

Under the dazzling lights of the iconic Crystal Tea Room in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Union Foundation hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Legends of Soccer Fundraising Gala, raising an extraordinary $201,918 to fuel its life-changing programs and initiatives.

This year’s gala brought new energy and inspiration as attendees witnessed the unveiling of two groundbreaking initiatives. The HeadFirst mental health program was introduced, designed to equip youth and families with crucial mental fitness toolkits, in-person educational workshops, and opportunities for deeper conversations through an annual mental health forum. The Chester Union soccer initiative, which launched in 2023 under the Chester Soccer program, was also highlighted. The crowd was moved as players from Chester Union took center stage to share their stories and achievements, underscoring the transformative impact of the program.

The evening also celebrated exceptional individuals and organizations that have profoundly influenced the soccer landscape in Philadelphia. Alejandro Bedoya, Philadelphia Union Captain, was presented with the Soccer Award in recognition of his remarkable contributions to both the sport and the community. WSFS Bank received the Corporate Impact Award for its commitment to providing critical support and field access for Chester Union players at the new state-of-the-art Union Sportsplex. Lastly, the Community Award was bestowed upon JT Dorsey, honoring his outstanding dedication to nurturing youth soccer development in the Greater Philadelphia area.

Reflecting on the evening’s success, Gregg Holgate, Interim Executive Director of the Philadelphia Union Foundation, shared his thoughts: "This Gala is more than just an event—it’s a testament to the power of soccer to uplift, inspire, and transform lives. Every dollar raised tonight will help us strengthen our programs and continue creating opportunities for the youth and communities we serve. We are incredibly grateful to our supporters, sponsors, and honorees for making this impact possible."*

The 2024 Legends of Soccer Gala was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression of hope, unity, and the enduring potential of soccer to drive positive change.

OUR 2023 GALA

At the illustrious Crystal Tea Room in the heart of Philadelphia's Wanamaker Building, the Philadelphia Union Foundation celebrated a triumphant evening, securing an impressive $282,000 at its Legends of Soccer Fundraising Gala in April 2023

These funds, passionately raised with a vision to transform lives through the universal language of soccer, will empower the Foundation's key initiatives. Notably, the iAM Project stands out, aimed at bolstering the dreams of Chester's high school students. Additionally, the funds will fuel the creation of mini-pitches across Philadelphia, bolster soccer programs in Chester, and uplift the surrounding communities with numerous other ventures.

The evening was adorned by the recognition of Legends of Soccer in Philadelphia: Dan Hilferty, the spearhead of Philadelphia Soccer 2026; the voice of the game, JP Dellacamera, Philadelphia Union Commentator; and Chris Branscome, the dynamic CEO of the Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association. Each of these luminaries was honored not just for their unparalleled contribution to American soccer, but also for ensuring that soccer's magic reaches far beyond the green expanse of the pitch.

Paul Howard, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Union Foundation, expressed his elation, "Tonight wasn't just about recognizing the monumental contributions of Dan, JP, and Chris to soccer in Philadelphia. It was a heartfelt celebration of soccer's capacity to transform lives. The Gala, year after year, serves as a testament to the unyielding power of the sport, and every penny raised propels our Foundation's mission to touch even more lives."