New York, NY - In an effort to raise money for America SCORES NY, an after-school program that promotes health and literacy through their soccer and poetry program, local artists unveiled their new artwork, inspired by the poetry of America SCORES' young and talented poet-athletes.

Taking place at Manhattan's Sky Room, this one-night-only event titled "Inspired Art" gave guests the opportunity to meet the artists who generously donated their artwork and time for the event. In addition, participants also had the opportunity to participate in the silent auction as they mingled with the other guests.

“Inspired Art will connect the art world with the education world, Harlem with Midtown, and public elementary school students with “grown-up” artists,” said Megan Bartlett, event co-chair. “We will celebrate the students’ voices alongside the artists’ vision, demonstrating the ability of our city’s youth to inspire others once they are encouraged to express themselves creatively.”

Not only was this fundraiser well-planned and enjoyable, it served as a reminder of the importance of these events. One thing about America SCORES NY that I must commend is the dedication and efforts of their fundraising committee.

With all the government and state cutbacks, programs such as America SCORES NY are usually the first ones to feel the effects of it. Anyone who's ever interned, worked, or volunteered for a nonprofit organization understands the challenges and stress that comes with fundraising.

From brainstorming an event, to finding a site that's not only affordable, but accessible for their guests to easily commute to. This is a reason why fundraising is now a full-time job. While they may do a successful job in planning and promoting their events, they still need our financial support.

Having been involved as a volunteer for a reputable nonprofit organization for 10 years has given me an idea of the planning and execution of any fundraiser. Not only are you figuring out themes and sites, there's the promotion as well as the outreaching for sponsors, in-kind donations, and possible celebrities or community leaders to attend.

In layman's terms, you're trying to keep everything at a minimum cost, and by the end of the fundraiser, you're hoping that only 6-10 percent of what was raised went towards the cost the event. Even before the event takes place, you're already in the red. 

Did I mention that the organization would have to approve of all of this and depending on the event, they would have to follow up with the agency's attorney for possible waivers for guests to sign? If your fundraising committee consists of volunteers, keeping them motivated is also a job within itself.

When it's said and done, the only result that matters the most in any fundraiser is dollar amount that was raised. I apologize for being cold about this but it's the reality. Breaking even or less is basically not a good situation to be in. While the event may have been pleasant and memorable, it's still a fundraiser.

In the end, it's about raising the necessary funds in order for programs like America SCORES NY to continue to do a marvelous job in serving the communities where they're involved in. I've met the staff and not only are they committed to providing a quality service, but their staff, coaches, and volunteers are fantastic with the children.

While many of us follow the professional teams, we mustn't forget that youth soccer programs such as America SCORES NY enables children in the inner-city to have an alternative that's positive and educational in their lives.

The only thing that isn't being downsized in New York City is the need for donations. If you're able to help America SCORES, whether individually or through the company you work or own in New York, please do so. To learn more about America SCORES, please go to: www.americascoresnewyork.org.

You can also follow America SCORES NY at Facebook and Twitter at @AmericaSCORESNY.

Cesar Diaz covers Soccer for LatinoSports.com. He's also a Columnist for USSoccerPlayers.com; your source for American Soccer news brought to you by members of the U.S. National Team. Easily accessible, you may reach Cesar at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and at Twitter at @CoveringSoccer.

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