GEAR UP, GIVE Back

  Dylan Taylor is currently a freshman at the University of Notre Dame.  He formed PELOTA as a sophomore at St. Mark's School of Texas, where he was an avid soccer player and member of the school’s varsity soccer team. He played competitive club soccer for 12 years and is also a US Soccer Federation-certified referee. Dylan formed PELOTA after realizing that many families in his community were unable to provide their children with basic athletic equipment such as cleats, balls, gloves, and more. Dylan’s vision for PELOTA stems from his belief that every child should have the opportunity to engage in sports regardless of circumstance. The organization’s primary goal is to alleviate the financial burden on families by providing sports equipment to those in need. Additionally, in recognition of the significance of education, PELOTA also works to provide school supplies to children in need.  While he is away at college, Dylan has delegated day-to-day responsibilities for PELOTA to a group of seniors at St. Mark's, led by Christian Denis, who, like Dylan, plays on the varsity soccer team.  Dylan and Christian stay in close contact to ensure that PELOTA's mission continues uninterrupted.

At PELOTA, we are deeply committed to fostering a positive impact in the lives of disadvantaged children. Our multifaceted approach involves running paid youth soccer camps, where the proceeds are used directly to purchase sports equipment and school supplies for those in need. In addition, we actively encourage a culture of giving back by collecting donations at these camps, which are then given to various organizations dedicated to helping underprivileged kids.

Moreover, we recognize the importance of accessibility and inclusion, which is why we also organize free soccer camps for children facing financial hardships. These camps not only provide an opportunity for children to engage in physical activity and learn valuable skills, but also serve as a platform for us to distribute basic sports equipment to all camp participants. Through these initiatives, we strive to create a brighter future for every child.

PELOTA is dedicated to fostering positive change and works with a number of organizations to make a meaningful impact on various communities. One such partner is Casa View Elementary School in East Dallas, where the majority of students come from low-income Hispanic and migrant families. Through this partnership, PELOTA aims to empower young minds by providing athletic and educational supplies, contributing to the enrichment of their educational journey. 

PELOTA's commitment extends internationally by teaming up with the Chosen Children Village Foundation (CCV) in the Philippines. CCV provides a lifelong home for abandoned children facing physical and mental disabilities. By partnering with CCV, PELOTA is helping to create a nurturing environment that not only addresses the children's unique needs but also fosters their overall well-being. 

Additionally, PELOTA collaborates with St. Vincent de Paul Dallas, contributing to their mission of working to alleviate poverty and assisting individuals and families in need through various outreach programs. PELOTA has also worked with other community organizations including the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, the Jubilee Park Community Center and the West Dallas Community Center.  These partnerships underscore PELOTA's dedication to creating positive change and uplifting communities.