MISSION
Supporting America’s Youth in Sports, the Arts and Vocational Development.
Every child deserves the chance to play, learn, grow, and belong. Youth Play USA removes financial barriers so kids in Grades 6–12 (13-18 years of age) can participate in sports, the arts, and vocational programs building skills, confidence, and a stronger future.
Supporting America's Youth in Sports, the Arts & Vocational Development
Kids who stay active and creative stay healthy, physically, socially, and emotionally.
Yet far too many kids lack access to structured programs, leaving them disengaged and at risk.
OUR PURPOSE
Every child has potential. But potential only becomes possibility when a young person has access to the programs that help them grow, the teams that build resilience, the arts that spark imagination, and the hands‑on learning that opens doors to real careers.
For too many families, those opportunities are out of reach. Cost becomes the barrier. Disconnection becomes the risk. And a child’s future narrows before it ever has the chance to expand.
Youth Play USA exists to change that.
We believe finances should never determine a young person’s path. Your support provides scholarships that cover program fees, equipment, and essential resources so students in grades 6–12 (and 13-18 years of age) can participate fully, not sit on the sidelines.
When you give, you’re not just funding a program. You’re giving a young person a place to belong, a chance to thrive, and a future filled with possibility.
You’re investing in potential, changing lives, and strengthening entire communities.
Sports teaches resilience. Arts spark creativity. Vocational programs open doors to real careers. Sadly, for thousands of middle and high schoolers, “I can’t afford it” ends the conversation.
Youth Play USA refuses to let money decide on a child’s potential, we fund the scholarships to cover fees and resources, so every kid gets their shot.
Unlocking Potential for the Next Generation
When young people lack access to sports, arts, and hands‑on vocational learning, the consequences are real.
Decades of research show that staying connected to meaningful activities during adolescence is one of the strongest predictors of long‑term success; academically, socially, and emotionally.
Many youth face barriers that keep them from participating. The result is higher dropout risk, weaker academic performance, increased mental‑health challenges, and greater exposure to risky behaviors.
Unlocking Potential for the Next Generation
When young people lack access to sports, arts, and hands‑on vocational learning, the consequences are real. Decades of research show that staying connected to meaningful activities during adolescence is one of the strongest predictors of long‑term success — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Many youth face barriers that keep them from participating. The result is higher dropout risk, weaker academic performance, increased mental‑health challenges, and greater exposure to risky behaviors.
Higher Graduation and
College‑Going Rates
Students engaged in extracurricular and enrichment programs are significantly more likely to stay in school, graduate on time, and pursue postsecondary education. National studies from the U.S. Department of Education and the National Endowment for the Arts highlight strong links between participation and long‑term academic persistence.
Why Connection Matters
Better Academic Performance and Fewer Behavioral Issues
After‑school and arts‑based programs are associated with improved grades, stronger test performance, and reduced disciplinary incidents. These environments build focus, teamwork, and problem‑solving — skills that translate directly into classroom success.
Stronger Long‑Term Economic Outcomes
Career and technical education, internships, and hands‑on learning experiences help young people build real‑world skills that lead to better employment opportunities and higher earning potential in adulthood.
Higher Aspirations and Future Orientation
Arts and vocational programs are especially powerful for students from low‑income backgrounds, helping them develop clearer goals, stronger motivation, and a belief in their own future possibilities.
Improved Mental Health and Reduced Risky Behaviors
Connected youth report lower levels of anxiety and depression, stronger self‑esteem, and healthier peer relationships. Research also shows that participation in positive activities reduces the likelihood of substance use and other high‑risk behaviors.
WHAT WE OFFER
After School
Kids thrive when they’re engaged in positive, structured activities. We help families access after-school sports, arts, and programs that build confidence, belonging, and healthy relationships.
Scholarship
We provide financial assistance so children can join teams, classes, and programs they otherwise couldn’t. Your support opens the door for every kid to participate—no matter their situation.
Training
Whether it’s athletic coaching, skill-building, or creative development, we support youth who want to grow. Training opportunities help young people discover their strengths and stay connected.
Trades
Not every student finds their path through sports or arts alone. We help connect youth to hands-on learning and trade-focused programs that teach real skills and prepare them for future opportunities.
Why Connection Matters
Higher Graduation and College‑Going Rates
Students engaged in extracurricular and enrichment programs are significantly more likely to stay in school, graduate on time, and pursue postsecondary education. National studies from the U.S. Department of Education and the National Endowment for the Arts highlight strong links between participation and long‑term academic persistence.
Improved Mental Health and Reduced Risky Behaviors
Connected youth report lower levels of anxiety and depression, stronger self‑esteem, and healthier peer relationships. Research also shows that participation in positive activities reduces the likelihood of substance use and other high‑risk behaviors.
Academic Performance and Fewer Behavioral Issues
After‑school and arts‑based programs are associated with improved grades, stronger test performance, and reduced disciplinary incidents. These environments build focus, teamwork, and problem‑solving — skills that translate directly into classroom success.
Stronger Long‑Term Economic Outcomes
Career and technical education, internships, and hands‑on learning experiences help young people build real‑world skills that lead to better employment opportunities and higher earning potential in adulthood.
Higher Aspirations and Future Orientation
Not every student finds their path through sports or arts alone. We help connect youth to hands-on learning and trade-focused programs that teach real skills and prepare them for future opportunities.
Youth who take part in structured programs like athletics, arts, and career-focused skill building often show improvements in
Youth Play USA scholarships help families remove financial barriers so students 13-18 years of age can participate in meaningful sports, arts, and vocational programs that support growth, discipline, and long-term opportunity.
Scholarships
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Be part of the solution today.
Choose how you want to help:
DONATE
Every dollar helps change lives. Ask about a tax deductible donation.
NETWORK
Connect us with schools, coaches, studios, or community leaders who can help identify kids in need.
VOLUNTEER
If you’re a coach, instructor, or mentor, partnering with us opens doors for students who otherwise couldn’t participate.
SHARE
Tell a friend, post on social media, or introduce someone to our mission, every share spreads opportunity.
Have questions or want to get involved?
Whether you’d like to volunteer, invite us to speak, discuss a partnership, or learn more about our scholarships, we’d love to connect. Reach out anytime—together we can help more students access sports, the arts, and vocational opportunities.