Chester Nonprofit Empowers Children to Create Sports Jerseys, Fostering Artistic Exploration

In a classroom at Stetser Elementary School in Chester, desks and chairs were scattered about, creating a cozy atmosphere for two sophomores from the STEM Academy at Showalter, Kevin Stanford and Nyrell Hackett. The cousins found solace in this room, which had become a haven for students to freely express themselves.

Their artistic journey began in 2018 when they joined Design FC, an after-school program focused on fostering creative thinking, self-expression, and autobiographical storytelling through the creation of sports jerseys and apparel. This experience marked their first foray into the world of art classes.

As they reminisced in the room where it all started, Stanford and Hackett held up a jersey they had crafted in 2020. These jerseys were not just pieces of clothing but profound expressions of their emotions during the chaotic times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hackett’s jersey bore poignant messages like “Stop the violence,” “I want to grow up to see 18,” and “Make the world a better place.” These words reflected their desire to break free from the challenges and violence prevalent in their community, symbolizing their yearning for a brighter future.

Their designs caught the attention of many, including being selected for use in FIFA 2021 Ultimate Team, an online video game by EA Sports. Stanford, who had developed a passion for computer graphics, was amazed by the impact their creations had. The recognition served as a source of motivation for him to continue exploring his creative pursuits.

Remaining actively engaged in the project, Stanford and Hackett now serve as mentors for younger students in the Design FC after-school program. This initiative, spearheaded by founder and executive director Omri Gal, aims to provide students in Chester with a creative outlet, filling the void left by the lack of art courses in the area.

Gal’s vision extended beyond just art; it was about redefining the meaning of a jersey and transforming it into a canvas for children to express themselves. Through partnerships with renowned brands and sports teams, including Adidas and Major League Soccer’s D.C. United and Los Angeles FC, Design FC has grown significantly, offering children life-changing opportunities to engage with industry professionals.

Gal’s own journey, from a soccer enthusiast to a social entrepreneur, underscores the transformative power of creative outlets. Inspired by his experiences, Gal founded Design FC to empower youth through art and design, providing them with avenues for self-expression and skill development.

The impact of Design FC goes beyond art; it fosters a sense of community and collaboration among students. The program’s expansion, including the addition of specialized programs and collaborations with sports teams, demonstrates its commitment to nurturing creativity and providing opportunities for personal growth.

For Stanford and Hackett, Design FC has been a transformative experience, sparking their creativity and opening doors to new possibilities. As they continue their involvement with the program, they aspire to make their mark in the world of design and apparel, inspired by the belief that creativity can pave the way for a brighter future.