Cascade College exists to make a difference in our community. Today, on a blustery fall afternoon, the Thunderbird’s men's and women’s soccer team partnered with Innercity Sports Ministries (ISM) to make a difference in the lives of some Portland youths through teaching basic soccer skills.

Lashaun Channy, director and founder of ISM, said that ISM’s purpose is to introduce and assist today’s youth and their families in coming to know Jesus Christ. ISM strives to shape character and develop leadership through a variety of structured sports activities, sports-related field trips and Bible studies.

“Many of these kids rarely get to experience different sports other than Basketball. Plus, doing these types of activities with the community helps our athletes put their talents to use through mentoring youth,” Jeremy Schwartz, Cascade College’s Interim Athletic Director, said.

The kids spent a few hours working with the Thunderbirds to learn the basics of soccer. Afterward, they broke up into two teams and played a ten-minute scrimmage.

“Getting our two organizations together was a dream come true,” Director of Advancement Lanny Tucker said. “It’s great to have our students working with and getting involved in the community around us.”

The Cascade College athletic department plans to hold other mini-clinics for ISM throughout the year.

Lynn, a participant in today’s clinic, gave the experience two thumbs up.

“I really liked learning to play soccer," Lynn said. "Coach Schwartz taught me never to give up!”

For more information about ISM, click here.