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“We are looking to spread the word so that if people know about communities in need, then we would make connections,” she said.

They are also looking for donations of gently-used cleats, soccer balls, jerseys, shorts, socks and shin guards for kids of all ages. Two donation bins are currently set up in Calgary, at the Calgary Soccer Centre and the North Glenmore Park Community Association. Extra bins are available for any businesses interested in setting up a spot to accept donations.

Adams noted the launch of the foundation was timed to coincide with the World Cup and the global attention the sport receives during the competition.

“We’re all kind of watching for one reason, because we love soccer,” she said.

While Adams received multiple offers of scholarships in the United States, she ultimately opted to go in a different direction and work with youth in Canada.

“I’m currently a teacher, so I get to be with kids every day and coach on the side, which is a dream,” she said.

Adams coaches U13 and U15 soccer at Calgary Glenmore FC.

While the Second Effort Foundation is still in its early days, Adams said she is hoping to eventually expand the work throughout Western Canada.

“There are other organizations like this out there … but nowhere where we could collect equipment from the Calgary community to send around the world,” she said.

More information is available on the foundation’s website, at www.maketheeffort.org

ycole@postmedia.com