As a child, Orlando City SC Midfielder Jean Alexandre saw firsthand how poverty and lack of opportunities could create a bleak future for Haitian civilians. After moving to the United States and becoming a professional soccer player, Alexandre decided to start the Jean Marc Alexandre Football Academy, which is currently the only organized soccer program in Haiti. This Saturday, June 29, Jean will be collecting donations for the Academy at Orlando’s home game at the entrance of the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

Jean’s organization uses soccer as a platform to help create a safe environment for youth to play organized soccer and learn invaluable life skills. The Academy holds regular training sessions and practices for the 50 Haitian teens who attend. Ultimately, Jean desires the Academy to be a destination for youth to learn the game of soccer and engage in educational programs.

“Our goal is to provide these kids with hope through soccer, and the lessons they learn from being a part of the Academy,” said Alexandre. “Eventually they will take these skills and become stronger contributors both in sports and in society. I believe a sport, especially soccer, is one of the ways to do that.”

Alexandre is asking the community to donate the following items at Saturday's home game vs. Richmond: youth soccer shorts, youth soccer cleats, youth tennis shoes, soccer socks, youth shin guards, youth T-shirts, and new water bottles.

Fans are invited to also drop donated items off at the Seminole Soccer Complex (7390 Markham Rd, Sanford, FL 32771) or Orlando City’s headquarters in Winter Park (1201 S. Orlando Ave. #202, Winter Park, FL 32789).