FC Harlem

FC Harlem is non-profit youth soccer organization located in Harlem in New York City. It is open to Harlem community children ages 5 to 14, and aims to teach the children not only soccer, but also to promote fitness and morales through team play and membership. The team is a member of the American Youth Soccer Organization and receives funding from the US Soccer Federation. Until recently, the team had no home field and played their matches at a variety of local parks. With the help of the US Soccer Federation and the MLS W.O.R.K.S. program (MLS charitable organization), the team is in the process of securing its own field and practice facilities.

Aside from donating and raising money for the squad, Major League Soccer also provided the children of FC Harlem with a once in a lifetime opportunity - to practice with MLS stars. The kids got to meet and scrimmage with Juan Pablo Angel, Jozy Altidore, Ty Harden, and David Beckham. Beckham said of the experience "today has been one of the best days since I arrived in America".

Exposure through charity is a great promotion for David Beckham. It allows him to be seen as more than just an athlete, but also as a humanitarian who also gives back to the community. Beckham has been active in youth soccer for years, and even has established two seperate David Beckham Academies in London and Los Angeles. Not many Americans are aware of this. The FC Harlem event, however, allows David to showcase this. He also is establishing himself as a driving force in establishing soccer in the United States and not just a ploy to sell MLS jerseys and tickets.