Press Release — August 14, 2026
Nonprofit Just One Goal Launches to Expand Access to Competitive Youth Soccer Through Scholarships
Organization builds on more than 20 years of impact, ensuring financial barriers never keep children off the field
DES MOINES, Iowa — Just One Goal, a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has officially launched with a simple but powerful mission: ensuring that no child misses the opportunity to play competitive youth soccer because of financial circumstances.
Formerly known as the Karen Coaldrake Financial Assistance Fund, Just One Goal continues more than two decades of work providing scholarships to families whose children want to participate in the Johnston Urbandale Soccer Club (JUSC), West Des Moines Soccer Club (WDMSC) and Sporting Iowa programs. To date, the organization has awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships, including more than $200,000 last year alone, helping approximately 200 young athletes each year experience the life-changing benefits of soccer.
The organization was founded in memory of Karen Coaldrake, whose unwavering belief was that every child deserves the opportunity to play, grow, and belong.
“My wife Karen believed that every child deserved the chance to experience the joy, friendships, and life lessons that come from playing soccer. She was absolutely passionate that every kid has an opportunity. Just One Goal carries that vision forward by making sure financial circumstances never determine whether a child gets to step onto the field.”
— Peter Coaldrake
Scholarships are awarded based solely on financial need, and not athletic ability, ensuring access for children whose families may otherwise be unable to afford club fees. Just One Goal aims to raise $250,000 in 2026 to meet the expected needs, with a longer range target of $5 million.
The organization represents the next chapter of a scholarship program that has quietly transformed the lives of thousands of Central Iowa families over the past 20-plus years. The evolution into Just One Goal reflects the belief that a single opportunity can change the course of a child’s life.
“Participation in youth sports builds confidence, resilience, teamwork, leadership, and lifelong friendships. Every child deserves the chance to experience those benefits, regardless of their family’s financial situation.”
— Jeff Smaha, Just One Goal Board Chair
The official launch of Just One Goal will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 18 at Hy-Vee Multiplex in Grimes as 38 JUSC, WDMSC, and Sporting Iowa teams kick off fall season training between 5-8 PM. Community members, businesses, and organizations are invited to support the mission through financial contributions and partnerships.
For more information about Just One Goal, scholarship opportunities, or ways to support the organization, visit www.justonegoal.org.
