Youth Sports Big Bet

Expanding Equitable Access to Youth Sports

Give 1 million youth access to participate in sports

The Daniels Fund is investing in opportunities for 1 million young people to participate in organized sports. This Big Bet is rooted in Bill Daniels’ belief that every child deserves the chance to grow through teamwork, discipline, and competition. A lifelong athlete and former owner of the Utah Stars basketball team, Bill saw sports as a powerful force for character development, leadership, and opportunity, especially for those who might not find it elsewhere.

Too many kids, especially those from low-income families, are missing out due to rising costs and limited access. Through programs that remove financial barriers and expand opportunities, we are helping young people experience the lifelong benefits of sports. Our investment supports their physical health, emotional resilience, and leadership development. It prepares them to thrive in school, in their communities, and beyond.

Youth Sports Giving Day

Youth Sports Giving Day is an annual campaign that unites communities across Colorado to expand access to sports for kids and teens. Each year, donors, families, coaches, and community partners come together to support local programs and ensure more young people have the chance to play.

The campaign has engaged thousands of donors and hundreds of youth sports organizations, generating millions in support. These funds help address barriers such as cost, equipment, and transportation, making sports possible for kids who might otherwise be left out.

With plans to grow beyond Colorado, Youth Sports Giving Day is building momentum toward a national movement. By rallying communities behind youth athletics, the campaign is opening doors to opportunity and strengthening the next generation.

Why Youth Sports Access Matters

Across the country, families and educators are raising concerns about declining youth sports participation. The rising cost of play and shrinking access in underserved communities mean that too many young people are missing out on the physical, emotional, and developmental benefits that come from sports.

We are committed to reaching 1 million young people with opportunities to participate in sports. This investment supports efforts across our four-state region and is designed to grow, helping ensure every child, regardless of income, can access the lifelong benefits of organized play.

At the Daniels Fund, we believe youth sports should:

Be accessible and affordable for all families
Build character, confidence, and leadership
Promote health, belonging, and long-term success

$1,000

The average family now spends over $1,000 per year per child on youth sports, putting participation out of reach for many (Aspen Institute, 2024)

31%

Only 31 percent of kids from low-income households play sports, compared to 70 percent of those from higher-income families (CDC/NCHS, 2020)

60%

Among women (ages 20–80) who played sports, 69% hold at least one formal leadership role outside the family (Women’s Sports Foundation, 2020)

Youth Sports Giving Day is an annual campaign in Colorado that mobilizes communities to expand access to sports, with plans to grow to additional states nationwide.

Impact in action

Hear from the athletes, coaches, and families whose lives are shaped by investments in youth sports.

"At Gold Crown, we believe sports go far beyond the scoreboard. Every practice and every game helps young people build confidence, resilience, and character. Thanks to the support of the Daniels Fund, thousands of Colorado youth are gaining life skills that will serve them long after they leave the court."

"Sports at the Y give kids more than exercise. They give them belonging, teamwork, and the courage to lead. With the Daniels Fund's support, we're able to make sure every child, regardless of background, has the chance to grow through play."

"Through the power of sports, athletes with intellectual disabilities discover confidence, friendship, and joy. Daniels Fund’s partnership allows us to expand these life-changing opportunities to even more athletes across Colorado and beyond and we are beyond grateful."

Unlocking Opportunities:

Expanding Youth Sports for All

Youth sports provide life-changing benefits, fostering academic success, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Kids who engage in organized sports score higher on standardized tests, have greater confidence, and are more likely to attend college. In fact, a survey of female Fortune 500 executives found that 94% had played sports, with over half continuing at the university level.

Yet, financial barriers make it challenging for many families to afford organized sports. On average, families spend nearly $900 per child annually, which puts sports participation out of reach for some. While only 34% of children from low-income families participate in sports regularly, compared to 68% from wealthier families, there is an opportunity to change this.