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Sporting KC to use stadium as launchpad for supporting minority workers

Children’s Mercy Park, the home of Sporting Kansas City, will become a hub of employment opportunities for minority social groups, the Major League Soccer franchise has announced.

Members of the public who are 16 and over and have disabilities or special needs will be invited to apply for part-time positions across a number of roles at the 18,500-capacity stadium after Sporting KC teamed up with Variety KC, a local charity.

“It is our hope that other cities, arenas, and stadiums will follow our lead,” the club stated.“ It’s one more step in our goal to create a true inclusion revolution in KC; one where all kids and families are welcome – and all can be active, be social and belong.”

Cashier, fan services associate and concession porter roles are available for home games at the stadium.

“The special needs community is the largest minority population in the country, and for Sporting Kansas City to identify that and be a leader – not only from a stadium inclusion perspective but on an employment level – says a lot about the organisation,” said Deborah Wiebrecht, chief inclusion officer and executive director at Variety KC.

The latest move follows a number of changes made to the stadium earlier this year, including a new accessible sensory room, free-to-checkout sensory backpacks and communication boards located within the first aid areas of the stadium.

Eight years ago, Sporting KC launched The Victoria Project, aiming to unite communities of fans, adults and minority groups through a series of special experiences and employment opportunities.

Image: Sporting Kansas City