The account says nearly 200 children attended the free camp, run by Thrive International and 90+ Project. The programme brought together young people from a range of backgrounds, including children who had lived in Thrive shelters in Spokane and Tacoma.
For 90+ Project executive director Russ Davis, the work extends well beyond the pitch. He said the camp uses football to teach “character, leadership, mental wellness” while helping widen access to the game.
The setting made that mission tangible: when coach Aaron Lewis asked how many children were born outside the United States, dozens raised their hands. Four of the five visiting Velocity players did too, the account says.
Mensah’s message was simple: “Listen to your coaches a lot because they have more experience than you guys.” The Ghana-born defender’s exchange with Mel gave the advice a personal edge, turning a professional footballer into a role model the young player could meet face to face.
Velocity forward Joe Gallardo also spoke about the work behind ambition. “If you really want to get there, if you push yourself, just work hard every day - I mean obviously, it's still hard to get there - but if you can do everything possible to get there, I think it's achievable,” he told the players.
The camp’s lasting impact will be measured in more than signed balls or a day with professionals. As Thrive International executive director Mark Finney put it, the wider aim is to help newcomers “not just survive” but thrive. The next chapter will be whether these young players keep finding belonging, confidence and opportunity through the game.