KC Current’s goalkeeper AD Franch lauded for teaming with WeCodeKC to empower urban youth 

AD Franch is more than just a world-class athlete; she’s a true community servant, said Tammy Buckner, founder of WeCodeKC, heaping praise on the KC Current goalkeeper-turned-advocate for technology education in Kansas City.

“Her passion and dedication to our students are unmatched,” said Buckner. “Through her partnership, we’ve been able to bring sports and technology together in a way that creates real, life-changing opportunities for our youth.”

Franch, a supporter of WeCodeKC since 2023 and a member of the Current since 2021, is now a nominee for the 2024 NWSL Lauren Holiday Community Impact Award, presented by Nationwide, because of her work with the nonprofit.

Click here to read more about WeCodeKC, which is dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equitable technology ecosystem.

Franch’s involvement with WeCodeKC has gone far beyond her time on the soccer field, Buckner said.

The Salina, Kansas, native has been a consistent presence at WeCodeKC’s summer technology camps, where she has actively engaged with students, helping them build skills in areas like cybersecurity. Her hands-on approach has made a significant impact, providing urban youth with the tools they need to succeed in the tech industry. 

“I am very passionate about giving back to the community and honored to be selected as the Current’s nominee for the Lauren Holiday Community Impact Award,” said Franch. “More importantly, I’m proud to be providing a platform for the incredible work happening daily at WeCode KC. Giving urban core youth the opportunities to be proficient in cybersecurity and technology is extremely important, and I am looking forward to seeing how WeCode continues to impact Kansas City.” 

AD Franch, goalkeeper for the Kansas City Current, at WeCodeKC; image courtesy of WeCodeKC and the KC Current

In addition to her involvement in the camps, Franch has collaborated with WeCodeKC students on innovative projects, including the development of a soccer arcade game. Earlier this year, she also participated in the Black Entrepreneurship video series, showcasing local Black entrepreneurs and reinforcing WeCodeKC’s mission to uplift and educate the community. 

“AD exemplifies what it means to be a community servant, and we are so excited to nominate her for this meaningful award,” said Ben Aken, vice president of community relations for the Kansas City Current. “The work AD does with WeCodeKC makes an immense impact on the Kansas City community. I hope this award continues to shine a light on the important work WeCode KC is doing for our youth, and more people are inspired to invest in the program.”

WeCodeKC, along with the KC Current, plan to honor Franch’s contributions during the Current’s Sept. 28 home match against NJ/NY Gotham FC. As part of the celebration, Franch will receive a $5,000 donation from the NWSL and Nationwide, which will be directed toward enhancing WeCodeKC’s programs. 

Beyond her work with WeCodeKC, Franch is actively involved with several other local organizations, including Giving Grove, Variety KC, Kansas City Public Schools, and the YMCA, where her soccer journey began at the age of five. 

In October, NWSL fans will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite nominee for the Lauren Holiday Community Impact Award, presented by Nationwide. The player with the most fan votes by the end of October will receive an additional $5,000 to donate to a charity of their choice, along with another $5,000 for their community partner. Fans can cast their votes daily starting Oct. 1 on the NWSL’s microsite.