The Philadelphia Union Foundation raised more than $282,000 to support its mission to change lives through soccer on Thursday during its Legends of Soccer Fundraising Gala at the Crystal Tea Room in the Wanamaker Building in downtown Philadelphia. The Foundation will use these funds to support its intiatives including the iAM Project, which supports aspirational high school students in Chester, building mini-pitches throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding communities, developing Chester soccer programs, and more.
Dan Hilferty, Chairman of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, JP Dellacamera, Philadelphia Union Commentator and Chris Branscome, CEO of Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association were honored as Legends of Soccer in Philadelphia to recognize the incredible work they have done to grow the sport of soccer in America and ensure its impact goes beyond the pitch.
“I’m thrilled we were able to recognize the incredible impact Dan, JP and Chris have had on soccer in our area,” said Paul Howard, Executive Director, Philadelphia Union Foundation. “Our Gala is an opportunity to celebrate how soccer can improve lives, while raising money for the Foundation so we can continue to expand the positive impact of the sport.”
Attendees heard from students who are part of the iAM Project, who shared how the program’s focus on inspiration, aspiration and mentorship is opening up new paths for their futures. Players from Chester soccer, in the midst of a five game winning streak, took to the stage to speak about the pride they feel when they step onto the pitch to represent Chester.
The event was hosted by Philadelphia Ring of Honor Legend Sebastien Le Toux and Philadelphia Union announcer, Dave Leno. Attendees were joined by Philadelphia Union players and coaches, as well as members of the Union front office including Union President Tim McDermott, and members of the club's ownership group led by Chairman and Principal Owner Jay Sugarman and Vice Chairman Richard Leibovitch.
The Gala was supported by an array of generous sponsors that are known for their work in the community:
- • Presenting Sponsors: Cozen O’Connor & COSECURE
- • Platinum Sponsors: Comcast, Independence Blue Cross, Subaru
- • Gold Sponsors: Arel Capital, Bimbo Bakeries USA, Hydroworx, Jay & Kelly Sugarman Foundation, Lincoln Financial Group, Philadelphia Soccer 2026, Westover Companies, WSFS Bank and ZeroEyes
For more information on the Philadelphia Union Foundation and its programs, visit PhiladelphiaUnionFoundation.org.
