Part 2: The Journey So Far

By now, you understand our "why"—why we started this project in the first place. But what happened along the way?

Where do we begin?

Last year, we hit the ground running. We started meeting with the coaches of our partner soccer club, Cenfyd Sports, and had open, honest conversations about the club’s strengths and struggles. We encouraged the coaches to dream big and reflect on what was working—and what wasn’t.

One of the biggest challenges was financial transparency. The club was gaining more attention thanks to its talented players, but behind the scenes, it was barely staying afloat. The coaches knew that if they wanted to grow, they had to get more organized. For the past three years, they had been scraping by—sometimes even paying out of their own pockets to keep the club running.

These coaches have incredible hearts. They see kids with undeniable talent and drive, but many of them simply can't afford to play. It breaks them to tell a child they can’t train or compete due to unpaid fees. That’s not something they’re willing to do. But at the same time, it’s unfair for them to sacrifice their own financial well-being, pouring in their own hard-earned money just to keep the club alive.

So, we came up with a solution—one that was fair and sustainable. We designed a system that ensured coaches would get paid, either in full or on a sliding scale based on family income. We also created fundraising opportunities for families who couldn't afford the fees. Our job at Palante was to find generous donors—people like you—who believe in this mission and want to help keep the dream alive.

Everything seemed to be falling into place. We had a plan. But then... nothing changed.

Families who could afford to contribute—even just a small amount—continued to take advantage, and the coaches did nothing to enforce accountability.

Before we could continue investing our time and energy, we needed to see the club take some initiative. But sadly, we didn’t.

We’ve always been mindful of the fact that sometimes, helping can hurt. If we’re seeking donors, we want to make sure their contributions truly go toward families who are committed to enriching their children’s lives. This is about more than just soccer—it’s about life. We have no problem providing financial support, but it’s disheartening when some families take it for granted, skipping practices and games despite receiving assistance. We needed to see commitment, and it simply wasn’t there.

A Personal Struggle

As months passed with little progress, I (Melissa) was also facing my own battle. Over a year of exams after exams, biopsies, mri, ct scans, you name it; it wore me out physically which eventually wore me out mentally.  It took a toll not just on me but also on Deiby and our kids.

Deiby had to pick up the pieces, juggling our projects and business while I struggled to function. I felt guilty for putting everything on pause. But the reality was, we simply didn’t have the capacity to push forward at that moment.

Why We Couldn't Let This Go

Even in my lowest moments, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this project wasn’t something we could just walk away from. This isn’t about me, my family, or even the coaches. This is about the kids.

For many of them, soccer isn’t just a game—it’s a lifeline. It keeps them off the streets. It gives them structure, discipline, and hope. And for some, like RJ and David, it’s literally a chance at survival—providing them with the nutrition and support they desperately need.

The Soccer Club’s Triumphs

Despite all the financial struggles, despite the obstacles, the club still managed to achieve something incredible.

All four of their categories made it to the semi-finals and finals. One category even won the championship—twice!

Word is spreading, and recruiters are taking notice. Three boys and one girl have already been scouted—two in Huila and two in Medellín. This is a huge deal! Despite every challenge, these kids and their coaches remain driven to succeed.

The Reality Today

Right now, the club has four categories (almost five) but only three coaches. These coaches split their time between daily practices and traveling—sometimes long distances—for games. They pour everything into their teams, even when it's difficult.

They could easily choose to accept only the kids who can afford to pay. But then, they’d be just like every other club—putting profit over people. That’s not their mission. They want to give every child a chance—a chance to stay off the streets, develop discipline, and have the opportunity to be recruited.

The coaches and kids of Cenfyd Sports are truly inspiring. And we’re honored to play a small role in their story.

Will You Be Part of Their Story?

Their journey isn’t just theirs—it’s ours too. And it can be yours as well.

With your help, we can ensure that financial struggles don’t stand in the way of these kids’ dreams. We can give them the tools, support, and opportunities they deserve.

This is about more than soccer. It’s about giving kids a future.

Are you in?

How You Can Help

We understand—times are tough. Even buying eggs in the U.S. has gotten expensive, so asking you to sacrifice for people you don’t know may seem like a big ask.

But even the smallest contributions make a difference.

• A donation toward nutrition can feed boys and girls like RJ and David. (Read their story HERE)

• A donation of soccer equipment can help kids play the game they love.

• A monthly donation can keep a child in the soccer club, meaning off the streets.

• A simple prayer for their well-being is powerful.

In Colombia, a dollar goes a long way. We hope you’ll consider becoming a Palà-nte Monthly Partner and help us continue this mission. Click HERE to donate.