Goal 13 takes a holistic approach to supporting young student-athletes through four primary pillars: Character Education, Mentorship, Educational Development, and Health & Wellness.

We believe developing the whole student-athlete means investing in who they are beyond their performance on the field. Through our four pillars, Goal 13 helps young people strengthen character, build meaningful relationships with positive adult role models, develop skills that support success in school and beyond, and understand the importance of caring for their physical and overall well-being.

Our goal is to use athletics as a platform to help young people grow beyond the game and develop the character, skills, relationships, and healthy habits that will serve them throughout their lives.

Goal 13 works with middle and high school student-athletes through partnerships with athletic clubs, schools, teams, and community organizations.

Goal 13 believes character education is not just for young people who are struggling but is something every child can benefit from. While our primary focus is providing high-quality character education, mentorship, and life-skills resources free of charge to student-athletes and families who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities, we believe traits such as perseverance, humility, integrity, empathy, leadership, respect, accountability, and composure are important for every young person.

Goal 13 works to provide programming at no cost to participating student-athletes and partner organizations whenever possible. Our programs are made possible through donations, sponsorships, grants, fundraising events, and community support.

The Character Education Program combines professionally produced video interviews, a student workbook, guided discussions, reflection activities, and adult mentorship or facilitation.The curriculum is designed as a 12-session program. Each major character topic is divided into two sessions so students have time to learn, reflect, apply the lesson, and return to the discussion during the following session.

Students explore topics including:

• character development;

• attitude, effort, and drive;

• perseverance;

• humility and a team-first mentality;

• empathy, respect, and composure; and

• integrity, loyalty, and courage.

Mentors guide student-athletes through the Goal 13 Character Education Program by asking questions, listening, sharing appropriate life experiences, encouraging reflection, and helping students apply what they are learning.

No. Goal 13 is designed to complement the support students already receive from families, coaches, educators, and other trusted adults.

Goal 13 primarily serves middle and high school student-athletes. Specific programming may vary by age and partner organization.

No. Although Goal 13 has strong roots in soccer, the character education curriculum is designed for student-athletes across sports.

Organizations interested in bringing Goal 13 programming to their student-athletes can contact the executive director, Annie B. Carter, at annieb@goal13foundation.org.

There are many ways to support the Foundation, including:

• making a financial contribution;

• sponsoring a Goal 13 event;

• donating goods or services;

• becoming a mentor;

• volunteering;

• supporting fundraising events; or

• introducing Goal 13 to potential community or corporate partners.

Donations help Goal 13 provide programming, curriculum materials, student workbooks, mentorship, educational opportunities, events, and other resources for young student-athletes.

Yes. Goal 13 Foundation is a 501c3 public nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the development of young student-athletes beyond the game.

Visit the Goal 13 website, subscribe to the Goal 13 newsletter, follow us on social media, or contact us directly to learn more about current programs and opportunities.

You can sign up for the Goal 13 newsletter (in footer below) to receive program updates, student-athlete stories, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support the Foundation.