As Canada prepares to welcome the FIFA World Cup in 2026, two Squamish locals are bringing that excitement to the community while helping ensure local children have access to the sport they love.
Kicks For Kids, a grassroots fundraising initiative founded by Cam Ellis and Cole Wilson, will return to Brennan Park Turf on July 11 for its fourth annual event. The fundraiser aims to raise $15,000 this year to help remove financial barriers that prevent children from participating in soccer and other youth programs throughout the Sea to Sky corridor.
What started as a simple idea between two friends has grown into a community-driven movement that has raised more than $25,000 over the past four years and directly supported local families, schools, and youth programs.
“Soccer was a huge part of both of our childhoods,” says Ellis. “It taught us teamwork, discipline, confidence, and gave us lifelong friendships. We want every child in Squamish to have the same opportunity, regardless of their family’s financial situation.”
Growing up in Squamish, Ellis and Wilson experienced firsthand how accessible youth sports could bring communities together. However, with the rising cost of living affecting many families, registration fees, equipment costs, and travel expenses can create significant barriers to participation.
The Kicks For Kids initiative was created to help bridge that gap.
While the organization primarily assists families participating in the Squamish Youth Soccer Association through registration support, equipment funding, and travel assistance, its impact now extends beyond the soccer field.
Funds raised through Kicks For Kids have also been used to support local schools with soccer equipment and resources, helping ensure the sport remains accessible during physical education programs despite increasingly tight school budgets.
The initiative is also working to support surrounding Indigenous communities by helping cover travel expenses associated with participation in regional soccer programs and events.
“Our goal isn’t just to help one player or one team,” says Wilson. “It’s about creating opportunities for kids across the community and making sure no child misses out because of financial barriers.”
Last year’s event welcomed more than 200 players, families, volunteers, and supporters, raising over $10,000 for local youth soccer initiatives.
This year’s fundraiser will feature a World Cup-themed youth soccer tournament, a community BBQ, and raffle prizes, creating a fun and inclusive festival atmosphere focused on participation, teamwork, and community spirit.
In addition to the tournament itself, organizers are encouraging local residents and businesses to get involved through sponsorships, donations, volunteer support, and attendance on event day.
The organizers hope increased community awareness will help expand the reach of the program and allow more families to access support in the years ahead.
“Our dream is simple,” says Ellis. “Every kid plays. We want families to know that support exists and that our community cares about creating opportunities for young people. The more support we receive, the more kids we can help.”
The Kicks For Kids World Cup Tournament presented by Surerus-Murphy Joint Ventures will take place on July 11 from 12pm-4pm at Brennan Park Turf in Squamish.
Community members interested in participating, volunteering, sponsoring the event, or making a donation are encouraged to contact info@kicks4kidsfundraiser.ca
Together, the community can help ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the benefits of sport, build friendships, stay active, and develop a lifelong love of the game.
