#United States #Denver #Daniels Fund #Aspen Institute #Colorado Youth Sports

Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day Returns for 2026

The much-anticipated Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day is set to return from September 1 to 15, 2026. During this initiative, spearheaded by the Daniels Fund and the Aspen Institute's Project Play Colorado, Coloradans will come together to support nonprofits dedicated to providing access to sports for all young people in the state. With more than $2 million available in matching and incentive funds, the campaign looks to bolster donations and maximize their impact.

A Proven Success

This year marks the third iteration of the campaign, which has already demonstrated significant success by raising nearly $9 million in its first two years. Engaging upwards of 240 nonprofits and making a difference to over 500,000 youth, the Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day has emerged as a formidable effort in promoting youth sports participation throughout the state. Contributions have funded essential needs including sports equipment, uniforms, and enhancements to programs and facilities designed to benefit kids across Colorado.

Hanna Skandera Grady, President and CEO of the Daniels Fund, emphasized the importance of youth sporting activities, stating, "Every child deserves the chance to discover what sports can teach beyond the scoreboard." She highlighted how youth sports help instill valuable characteristics such as confidence, teamwork, and resilience in young participants. Through this initiative, the Daniels Fund aims to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent any child from enjoying sports.

Event Launch at Coors Field

The campaign will kick off with a special event at the Colorado Rockies game on September 1 at 6:00 PM MT. For this occasion, supporters can purchase game tickets, with $5 from each ticket contributing directly to the campaign’s incentive fund.

Amplifying Generosity

More than $2 million in matching and incentive funds are on the table for donations made to participating nonprofits. Notably, for the first $1 million raised online on September 1, contributions will be matched dollar-for-dollar, intensifying the effect of early donations.

Additionally, this year's campaign introduces the America250 Fund, allocating $250,000 to match gifts made through donor-advised funds (DAFs), IRA rollovers, or wire transfers. Donors are encouraged to plan accordingly to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

Addressing Participation Disparities

As a critical backdrop to these fundraising efforts, the Healthy People 2030 initiative has established a national public health objective for youth sports participation, aiming for 63% by the end of the decade. While Colorado's participation rate stands at 64.5%, persistent disparities exist, particularly among underserved segments of the population. Data from the 2023–24 National Survey of Children's Health indicate that girls participate at 61.2%, and youth of color at 55%, compared to higher rates for boys and white youth (67.5% and 72%, respectively).

Tom Farrey, executive director of Aspen Institute's Project Play, pointed out that despite advancements, significant work remains to ensure equitable access to sports for girls, youth of color, those from lower-income families, and youth with disabilities. Every young person deserves inclusivity and support in their sports pursuits, and addressing these gaps is paramount.

The Importance of Sports

Access to sports offers invaluable benefits, fostering confidence, resilience, and social connections among youth. With rising concerns about mental health issues, physical inactivity, and childhood obesity, increasing participation in sports is a vital piece of the solution. Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day aims to rally community support for nonprofits working to expand sports access and drive positive youth development.

The campaign serves as an inspiration beyond Colorado, influencing similar initiatives, like Utah's inaugural Youth Sports Giving Day, scheduled for September 12–26.

How You Can Help

Coloradans can support Youth Sports Giving Day in several ways:

• - Donate online from September 1–15, 2026, at YouthSportsGivingDay.org.
• - Spread the word on social media using the hashtag #YouthSportsGivingDay.
• - Attend the Colorado Rockies game on September 1 and help contribute to the incentive fund through ticket purchases.

Participating nonprofits must complete a Youth Sports Giving Day Interest Form, with registration deadlines set for August 28, 2026. Sponsors of the campaign include an impressive lineup of organizations such as the Daniels Fund, Aspen Institute, Alpine Bank, and others.

Join in this vital effort from September 1 to 15, 2026, and help ensure every child in Colorado has the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of sports!

Contact Information:
Caitlin Jenney, GroundFloor Media
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.youthsportsgivingday.org