Phoenix Rising visits Family Evening Meal
During the summer season, devoted fans have been dropping off non-perishable food items at a large St. Vincent de Paul donation box sitting just outside the Phoenix Rising box office. This bit of generosity didn't just win these fans sideline tickets to see their favorite team up close and personal, it also gave them a sense of giving back to their community.
"It's very important for us to use our platform to support people looking up to us," said Rising midfielder, John Paul Scearce. "This partnership with SVdP helps to give back to the community. It's something we really look forward to."
The Phoenix Rising's commitment on the field remains the same, bringing their fans another championship season just as they did in 2023. But their commitment off the field to impact and better our community is equally important.
"We're happy to help SVdP bring more awareness to their organization through our fans," marketing and contact coordinator Isabella Duran said. "Ultimately we hope to build a better community and teach everyone how important SVdP is to the Phoenix area."
To validate that point, the Rising arrived back in the valley Thursday night fresh off a big road trip, and by Friday afternoon most of the organization made its way to the main campus of SVdP for a little fun, and to volunteer their time serving food and waiting on our family evening meal guests.
Rising head coach and manager, Pa Modou-Kah, was thrilled his players could take part in interacting with the guests and serving their needs during the evening meal-time period.
"Community and fans are what Phoenix Rising football is about," he said. "We're not the real heroes. We're fortunate to use our hobby to make a living. But the real heroes are the ones serving our communities. For our players it's good to see that what we have we sometimes take for granted. It's always nice to give back to our community and to the people in need."
For Rising forward, Emil Cuello the opportunity to volunteer and serve at SVdP hit home for him.
"I've been helped a lot and given a lot in my life," he said. "Growing up wasn't always easy for me and my family. So, it is a little bit emotional, and it is special being here and giving back to the community just like I was given a lot as a child."
Most of the Rising's front office executives, including the president, as well as the entire team and coaching staff, made a big difference in bringing fun and joy to our SVdP guests on this special "Pizza Friday."
