Start with access.
Build opportunity from there.
Rising Roots Initiative uses soccer as the entry point to create accessible youth opportunities, strengthen families, and connect the community around measurable programs. Our current work is focused on delivering what we can do well now while responsibly building the programs that come next.
Junior Roots Clinics
Our primary active youth program for Fall 2026 is the Junior Roots Clinic series: free pre-match soccer clinics for children ages 5–13 before Capital City Roots FC home matches.
Ages 5–13
Open to beginners, recreational players, and experienced players. No club affiliation is required.
Free
The clinic and the Capital City Roots FC home match that follows are free for participating families and supporters.
Five Sunday Home Matchdays
Clinics are scheduled for Sept. 13 and Sept. 27 at Trailridge School, then Oct. 25, Nov. 8, and Nov. 15 at Waukee High School. Clinics run from 3:30–4:15 PM, followed by a Capital City Roots FC home match at 5:00 PM.
Capital City Roots FC Players & Staff
Capital City Roots FC players and staff help create an accessible matchday soccer experience through Rising Roots community programming.
Programs we are building toward.
These programs are part of the Rising Roots model, but they are not currently open for general applications. We are developing dedicated funding, community partnerships, and operating processes before launching them more broadly.
Scholarship Support
Rising Roots is developing a scholarship program designed to help families with soccer-related costs such as registration fees, equipment, and travel.
Status: Funding and application process in development for 2026–27.
Transportation Access
Future transportation assistance is being designed to help reduce logistical barriers through options such as bus passes, ride coordination, and other transportation support.
Status: Funding and operating structure in development for 2026–27.
Partnerships can create more than one kind of access.
Not every community need requires a standalone program. Rising Roots also works with local businesses and organizations to support families through in-kind contributions and event-based resources when opportunities are available.
Equipment & Apparel
Cleats, balls, jerseys, water bottles, backpacks, and other items may be supported through local donations and in-kind partnerships.
Food & Family Support
Local restaurants, grocers, and community partners can help provide snacks, meals, certificates, and family-focused resources around clinic events.
Community Events
Rising Roots can collaborate with schools, businesses, and community organizations on clinics, equipment drives, volunteer activations, and other mission-aligned events.
Mentorship & Exposure
Coaches, players, businesses, and community leaders can help young people see pathways, professions, and opportunities beyond the field.
Education & tutoring
After-school tutoring is not currently offered by Rising Roots Initiative. Education-focused programming remains part of the long-term vision and may begin development in 2027 as staffing, funding, and community partnerships allow.
We would rather clearly show what exists today than overstate what is still being built.
As funding and capacity grow, this page will be updated so families, donors, and partners can see exactly what is active, what is in development, and what is planned for the future.
Find the path that fits you.
For Families
Register for a free Junior Roots Clinic and watch for additional youth opportunities as they become available.
For Businesses
Help fund or activate a program through sponsorship, named-program support, employee volunteering, or in-kind contributions.
For Supporters
Donations help build the funding base that keeps current programming free and makes future services possible.
Programs grow when the community grows them together.
If your school, business, organization, or family wants to connect with Rising Roots, start the conversation with us.