Because everyone deserves an opportunity
At the Beestera Foundation, we believe in building a diverse, inclusive environment where each child, regardless of race, gender, or background-can thrive and pursue their dreams, both on and off the field.
2026 Mission Mile Impossible
We’re excited to announce that Mission: Mile Impossible is back for 2026, a fun and meaningful 6-week challenge to help raise funds for the Beestera Foundation and continue driving positive change through sport in the Capital Region and beyond.
Here’s how it works:
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For every $500 raised, all Beestera coaches will run one mile.
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Donate $150 or more and you can assign an extra mile to any coach of your choice by leaving their name in the donation comment.
Donor Rewards
Top Donor: Wins 1 free week of camp during the 2027 season.
Second Highest Donor: Receives 2 free private training sessions.
Donate $100 or more: Automatically entered into a raffle to win one free summer camp registration for the 2027 season
Every two weeks, our staff will come together to run the miles. Some coaches will be mic’d up so you can be part of the experience, giving you the best view of the action, a good laugh, and a chance to see exactly what your support is fueling.
Your generosity makes it possible for us to continue giving back through the game. Thank you for being such an important part of our Hive. Let’s make Mission: Mile Impossible a success together!
Challenges runs from: 09/07 - 10/25
Ensures every child has the opportunity to attend Beestera camps, regardless of financial circumstances. Each scholarship funds a real player’s camp experience, giving them access to high-quality coaching, confidence-building moments, and a positive community.
Game On
Provides essential soccer equipment to players in underserved communities, ensuring every child has what they need to fully participate. Through donated cleats, uniforms, shin guards, and balls, this program removes barriers and helps players step onto the field with confidence.
Gear Up
Equips coaches with mentorship, hands-on training, and support to earn their USSF coaching licenses. By investing in coaches as leaders and role models, this program strengthens Just Play and expands access to positive, high-quality soccer experiences for players in underserved communities.
Game Changers
Creates safe, inclusive spaces for youth in underserved communities to play soccer while developing important life skills. Through guided activities, structured and unstructured free play, and character-based lessons, players grow on and off the field.
Just Play
camp scholarship sponsor
Give a child the opportunity to grow, learn, and be part of the Hive.
Swarm Partner
$5,000
Supports 8 Day Camp opportunities and 3 Residential Camp opportunities.
Make a movement in the community removing financial barriers at scale and creates meaningful access to both types of camps.
Hive Partner
$1,500
Supports 1 Residential Camp Opportunity or 3 Day Camp opportunities.
Strengthen access close to home by helping more players attend Beestera Day Camps and experience an environment built on THRIVE values.
Impact Sponsor
$500
Supports: 1 Day Camp opportunity
Remove the financial barrier for one child to attend a Beestera Day Camp and experience a full week of growth, support, and belonging in our Hive.
Our Impact in Numbers
30K
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+27%
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15M
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890
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Hive Legacy
OUR BOARD
Madeline (Maddy) Hammer
President
"I’ve been a member of the Capital District soccer community for most of my life. It has always been, and continues to be, a wonderful opportunity for personal growth, friendship, and fun. I’d like to be able to give back to the community that has supported me for so many years and find new ways to make an impact locally and beyond."
Daniel Josepher
Vice President
"I have been grateful enough to have the opportunity to play this sport at some of the highest levels, despite the barriers to entry so many people face each and every day. I am hoping to use this platform and this foundation to afford others the opportunities I took for granted, regardless of socioeconomic backgrounds."
Leigh Howard
Program Director
"Working with Special Olympics New York has shown me the impact that true inclusion can have on a young person’s confidence. The Beestera Foundation brings that same inclusive spirit to the soccer community, creating opportunities that every child deserves."
Michael Matera
Director of Events
"My main goal of the foundation is to give as many youth athletes the chance to enjoy the game of soccer. I never want someone to not be able to play because of financial reasons. Athletes in underserved areas deserve to have the same experiences as everyone else and I am looking forward to giving them this opportunity."
Ryan Wilkinson
Treasurer
"I attended the University at Albany, so the Capital Region holds a special place in my heart. I moved back to the Capital Region in 2019 and have since made it my permanent home. The area has so much to offer and Beestera continues to make an impact in our community. I’d like to help the Foundation expand and support underserved areas so that more children have the opportunity to experience the benefits of sports."
Matthew Needham
Liaison
"Athletics changed my life and gave me an opportunity in the United States. Sport is a powerful thing and can open doors to people that may not otherwise have been possible. It is my goal to give opportunities in underserved communities and continue to try and develop both great players and better people."
James Beeston
Vice Liaison
