The Kentwood and Kentridge women’s soccer teams were honored by the Washington State Senate on Feb. 18 for their work on “Kicks for a Cure” program that raises money for breast-cancer screenings to support women’s health.

Sen. Joe Fain sponsored a resolution that highlighted the Kentwood soccer team’s work that raised more than $21,000 to provide breast-cancer screenings for low-income women through MultiCare Covington’s “Women Get It” program, according to a press release. Since Tara Radford, wife of Kentwood soccer coach Aaron Radford, launched the effort in 2009 the team has played five fundraising matches along with other community events to raise funds and awareness.

“This is a great example of turning tragedy into opportunity,” Fain said in the release. “Not only have Tara, Aaron and the teams accomplished a great deal helping women access essential screenings, but they also set an incredible example for other people in the community about their ability to effect change and help others.”

Radford launched Kicks for a Cure after her mother and grandmother were diagnosed with breast cancer. Kentwood hosted Kentridge for a “Kicks for a Cure” match this fall that raised more than $3,500. The group also sold merchandise, hosted car washes and found other local sponsors to raise money.