Local Nonprofit Box2Box Supports Refugee and Immigrant Students in Lexington through Soccer and Mentorship Programs

Lexington, Kentucky – Box2Box, a local nonprofit organization founded by former refugee soccer players, continues to provide vital support to refugee and immigrant students in Central Kentucky. Established in 2018, Box2Box addresses the challenges faced by recent arrivals, offering after-school tutoring, mentorship, and competitive club soccer for 60 students across Fayette County.

The organization was founded by four individuals who arrived from the Democratic Republic of Congo at a young age and quickly became high school soccer stars. They recognized the need for community support systems that could help other refugee families navigate the complexity of integration into American society.

As Kentucky leads the nation in refugee resettlement per capita, many families find themselves facing multifaceted challenges, including school registration and job placement. The cultural transition can be particularly daunting for high school students, as they often grapple with identity and language barriers. “We had this big group of soccer parents who took us in,” said Philip Manga, Box2Box co-founder and current director. “But many families don’t have that support.”

The scope of Box2Box is evident in its activities. Many students lack reliable transportation to tutoring sessions and soccer practices, leading to dependence on a 2008 Ford Econoline van, now known as a crucial lifeline for these young athletes. However, the van recently broke down, prompting the organization to seek donations to obtain a new vehicle. Local philanthropist Robert Gosser has stepped in to help with a new vehicle, demonstrating the community’s support for Box2Box’s mission.

Former participants in the program attest to its impact. Cheal Kizrawa, a graduate from Midway University, credits Box2Box with helping him define his educational goals. “It’s not just something I say,” he noted, emphasizing the organization’s contribution to his success and commitment to staying in Lexington to contribute to the community.

As Box2Box’s activities extend beyond sports to include college preparation and mentorship, Manga’s commitment to the program often results in long hours that extend late into the night. The organization’s foundational goal remains clear: to ensure that refugee and immigrant students find the support they need to thrive academically and socially.

With the community’s ongoing efforts and contributions, Box2Box aims to continue its important work in Lexington, fulfilling a promise to the next generation of young immigrants seeking a place to belong and succeed.