Fort Collins Fans Raised Funds for Youth Soccer
The local American Outlaws chapter collected over $5,000 for the Ricardo Perez Youth Soccer Fund.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Soccer
Live Poll
Do you believe local volunteer groups are the best way to fund youth sports in your area?
The American Outlaws Fort Collins chapter successfully raised over $5,000 to support the Ricardo Perez Youth Soccer Fund. These donations, collected during 2026 FIFA World Cup watch parties, will help provide equipment and improve access to the sport for kids throughout Northern Colorado.
Why it matters
The fund was established to address the cost barriers that prevent many children in the region from participating in organized soccer. By providing grants, the initiative supports organizations and individuals needing financial aid to play.
The fundraising effort reached a total of $5,000, bolstered by a $1,500 individual donation from Joey Hartstock that was subsequently matched by his employer.
The players
American Outlaws
This national organization represents a prominent soccer fan group in the United States.
Ricardo Perez Youth Soccer Fund
The fund provides grants to assist youth with soccer equipment and participation access.
NoCo Foundation
This entity provides donor-advised services for the youth soccer fund.
Horse and Dragon Brewing Company
This local establishment hosted the soccer fan group during the fundraising watch parties.
Joey Hartstock
He is a donor who contributed $1,500 to support the youth soccer initiative.
The details
Donations were gathered through cash contributions and QR-code scans at the Horse and Dragon Brewing Company during watch parties. Managed by the NoCo Foundation, the fund has already supported programs like the Boys and Girls Club of Larimer County, Soccer Without Borders, and high-school girls in Greeley.
Timeline
Ricardo and Kianna Perez established the fund in 2024.
Nic Redavid met Ricardo Perez in 2025.
Fundraising events took place during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Season Trajectory
The Ricardo Perez Youth Soccer Fund follows a grant-making pattern established by Soccer Without Borders to expand athletic access for marginalized youth. This effort reinforces a regional trend of grassroots fundraising to sustain community soccer programs beyond standard club dues.
The funds will specifically target grant applications for equipment costs and registration fees in Larimer County and Greeley. Residents associated with local youth sports programs can monitor the NoCo Foundation for future grant cycle timelines and application requirements.
The takeaway
Community-driven initiatives like this highlight how fan organizations can leverage their platform to address local socio-economic barriers in youth athletics. Readers interested in similar causes can seek out local foundations that provide donor-advised pathways for sports equity.
Further reading
For more information on the sport in the area, visit Soccer.
Source note: This article includes information reported by FOX31 Denver KDVR.
Live Poll
Do you believe local volunteer groups are the best way to fund youth sports in your area?
