Donations from The Watermark at 3030 Park in Bridgeport, CT, helped a local high school student attend the world’s largest youth soccer tournament this past summer in Gothenburg, Sweden. Now she is working with college scouts from New York and is hoping to play collegiate soccer next year.
Madelyne Medina, 17, is the latest beneficiary of Watermark for Kids, a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded by Tucson, AZ-based Watermark Retirement Communities to empower young people to build character, strengthen leadership skills and express creativity, compassion and spirit.
Medina, a senior at Fairchild Wheeler Interdistrict Science Magnet School, is a member of the premier Connecticut Football Club and was attempting to raise money to participate in the Gothia Cup when a local pastor encouraged her to contact The Watermark at 3030 Park. Medina subsequently worked with The Watermark’s fitness director, Cindy McGuire, to apply for financial and travel support to attend the tournament.
Watermark for Kids covered the cost of Medina’s flight, hotel accommodations and tournament entrance fee.
“This was an exciting and eye-opening opportunity for Madelyne; being surrounded by people and players from 80 different countries gave her confidence and experience, both from an athletic and cultural perspective, that will carry with her as she prepares to attend college,” said Medina’s mother, Keyla. “This trip would not have been possible without the help of The Watermark sponsorship opportunity, and I commend them for having such a positive impact on young people in their community.”
Residents of The Watermark at 3030 Park held a Watermark for Kids fundraiser on Sept. 30, with a miniature golf tournament organized by The Watermark Men’s Club. Medina attended to thank the community for the donation and to share memories from her experience with the residents and associates.
“Madelyne’s experience is a perfect example of the vision of Watermark for Kids,” McGuire said. “We are thrilled to have been able to support her journey and look forward to keeping in touch and following her promising athletic and academic career.”
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