Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day Raises Over $5 Million for Youth Athletic Opportunities Across the State

Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day Exceeds $5 Million

On September 18, 2025, the Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day celebrated a remarkable achievement by raising a staggering $5,231,147. This second annual online fundraising event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Daniels Fund and Project Play Colorado, working hand in hand with 244 youth sports nonprofits across the state. The campaign drew participation from individual donors, businesses, and community groups—each contributing to improving access to youth sports for Colorado children.

Over the span of two weeks, community support surged, bolstered by generous matching contributions from notable organizations, including Alpine Bank, The Anschutz Foundation, and the Colorado Rockies. This united effort epitomizes the spirit of philanthropy in Colorado, emphasizing that every child should have the opportunity to engage in sports regardless of their financial background.

Hanna Skandera, president and CEO of the Daniels Fund, highlighted the importance of this initiative by stating, “Youth Sports Giving Day again sparked a groundswell of generosity across Colorado to lower barriers that are keeping too many kids on the sidelines.” The funds raised through this initiative not only provide financial assistance but also nurture crucial life skills such as resilience, grit, and determination—qualities gained through athletic participation.

Research consistently underscores the significant benefits of youth sports, which stretch beyond physical fitness to include enhanced academic performance, improved mental and emotional well-being, and the development of leadership skills. Young athletes are statistically more likely to achieve higher financial success in their adult lives. With increasing concerns surrounding childhood obesity and mental health, access to sports programs is more crucial than ever.

Unfortunately, financial constraints often limit participation in sports, particularly for children in economically disadvantaged communities and communities of color. Rising costs associated with organized sports have created barriers that prevent many children, especially girls and those from low-income families, from pursuing their passion. This initiative aims to dismantle such barriers, allowing more children the chance to participate in athletic activities before they reach adulthood.

Vickie Puchi, executive director of Chance Sports, emphasized the profound impact of the funds, stating, “The support we've received during Youth Sports Giving Day means we will be able to open the door to competition, growth, and transformation for so many more kids this coming year.” She highlighted that the initiative goes beyond the number of games played, focusing on instilling confidence and character in youth. “That's the true win.”

The Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day was launched in 2024 as a joint effort between the Daniels Fund and Project Play Colorado. The campaign encourages Coloradans to donate generously to ensure that children aged 18 and under have access to organized sports. For further details about this inspiring initiative, individuals can visit the official webpage at youthsportsgivingday.org.

In summary, the monumental success of the 2025 Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day showcases the immense goodwill of the community and highlights the ongoing need to support local youth sports. By providing essential funds to nonprofits, the campaign ensures more children can embrace the myriad benefits of athletics, shaping not only their physical health but their future well-being as well.

About the Daniels Fund:
Established by cable television pioneer Bill Daniels, this private charitable foundation provides significant support to nonprofit organizations and educational initiatives that foster the development of future leaders. With a specific focus on youth sports, the Daniels Fund aims to enable one million young people to engage in sports by 2030.

About Project Play Colorado:
As part of a broader initiative by the Aspen Institute Sports Society Program, Project Play Colorado cooperates with state-level entities and community organizations to enhance sporting opportunities for youth across Colorado. This award-winning collective impact initiative has been pivotal in promoting healthy youth engagement through athletics since its inception in 2013.