Panther Valley youth soccer raises funds for mental health
During Mental Health Awareness Month, a powerful initiative was led by 12-year-old Kenna Focht, a player on the Panther Valley Youth Soccer Association’s U13 team.
Moved by her own personal loss, Kenna brought forward an idea to honor her brother, Gaven Brossman.
Her hope was to raise awareness around mental health and help others who may be struggling in silence.
Kenna shared her idea with her coaches and teammates, and it deeply resonated with the entire team. Inspired by her courage and compassion, the team rallied behind her vision.
Word of the initiative soon spread, and an anonymous donor stepped forward to support the cause, pledging to donate $10 for every goal scored by the U13 team during the month, a total of $240.
At Kenna’s request, the funds raised were donated to The Jed Foundation, a mental health nonprofit committed to prevention, support and awareness to prevent suicide for teens and young adults in the United States.
This act of unity, kindness and action shows that teamwork extends far beyond the soccer field.
Kenna and her teammates have not only honored Gaven’s memory in a meaningful way, but they’ve also helped shine a light on a cause that affects so many.
Their efforts serve as a touching reminder that even the smallest voices can lead to powerful change.
Together, they’ve proven that goals come in many forms — and some of the most important ones don’t come from the scoreboard.