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July 12, 2024
The Game On-Community Places to Play initiative founded by the DICK’s Sporting Goods Foundation and LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation) to fund multi-use youth sport spaces in underserved communities in the US, is currently accepting proposals. Through the program, non-profit community-based organizations, including schools and local parks and recreation departments that are working in collaboration with local non-profits, can apply for funding and technical assistance to build or renovate sports facilities serving youth ages 6-24.
Proposals are being accepted through September 5 and must reflect improvents to the quality, safety and accessibility of local athletic spaces in under-resourced communities. Grants will range from $50,000-$100,000 and will require 1:1 match funding. Funds can be used to meet a range of needs, such as new court surfaces, nets, hoops, lights, bleachers, public address systems, fences, locker room facilities, goalposts and scoreboards.
The grants will be awarded to local outdoor and indoor facilities for youth sports including, but not limited to, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, football, tennis, lacrosse and volleyball. Additionally, youth development program services should include life skills workshops, civic engagement and leadership, workforce development and academic support.
Click her to view the Request For Proposals (RFP)
LISC is one of America’s largest community development organizations. It works with residents and partners to close systemic gaps in health, wealth and opportunity and advance racial equity. Through grants and other support, The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation’s ‘Sports Matter Program’ helps under-resourced 501c3 organizations, schools and community teams across all 50 states provide opportunities for youth to play sports. Launched in 2023, Game On-Community Places to Play funded 15 projects in 14 cities in its inaugural year, with another 17-20 sports spaces expected to be funded this year.
“These investments are about much more than fixing facilities and fields. They are about fueling healthy families and communities,” said Michael T. Pugh, LISC President and CEO. “For youth, in particular, they offer the chance to engage in positive activities that can have a lasting influence on their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing. You can’t put a price tag on that kind of impact.”
Over the past three decades, LISC has worked with philanthropic and investment partners to build or renovate 500 athletic fields and recreational spaces, serving more than one million youth and community residents. Additionally, DICK’s has committed more than $170 million to support young athletes over 76 years, believing that sports has the power to change lives.
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