BRIDGEPORT — Newtown Youth & Family Services (NYFS) will benefit from a fundraiser at The Ballpark at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, featuring the United Soccer League’s (USL) New York Red Bull II facing Newtown Pride FC of the Connecticut Soccer League, on Thursday, July 30, at 7:30 pm.

The evening will kick off at 6, outside of the ballpark, with an interactive fan zone. All ages are welcome to join in the fun.

Tickets vary in price, starting at $12, with group and family discounts available. Those interested in purchasing tickets may do so by visiting  and clicking on Events, and then the listing for New York Red Bulls II vs Newtown Pride.newtownyouthandfamilyservices.org

All net proceeds from the event, including ticket sales and proceeds from a silent auction held that evening, will go to NYFS.

New York Red Bulls II general manager Shaun Oliver said he and the team are proud to be part of the event.

“The opportunity to play in a match for this cause, and use the game of soccer as a conduit to enrich the lives of children in our community is something that we as an organization are excited about,” he said.

For more than 30 years, NYFS has been providing mental health and community support services to the greater Newtown area. NYFS continues to provide after school activities, support groups, social groups for children with autism spectrum disorder, and programs for preschool, youth, and teens, as well as provide financial assistance for counseling to children and families.

NYFS Executive Director Candice Bohr sees the collaboration as a perfect way to “enhance the services we provide for the community.

“There is no better way to develop a team partnership like that of Newtown Pride and NYFS than watching two highly-skilled teams work together for a common goal,” Ms Bohr said. “We are excited to watch the New York Red Bulls II and our very own Newtown Pride challenge one another. Thank you to both organizations for their support and helping us continue to fulfill our mission.”

Newtown Pride Coach Mike Svanda is pleased, he said, that the event has come to fruition.

“When the tragedy at Sandy Hook took place we were devastated, as many people were,” the coach said. “We were trying to think of a way to help affect change, a real difference for the future. We wanted to play soccer games to raise awareness and bring families together.

“Our goal,” he contined, “is to play soccer to raise funds and awareness for the Newtown Youth & Family Services, and to help implement programs for peer-to-peer mentoring. It is amazing to see the New York Red Bull organization come together for this cause and it's an honor to be a part of this great event.”