Supporting America's Youth in Sports, the Arts & Vocational Development
MISSION
Every child deserves the chance to play, learn, grow, and belong. Youth Play USA removes financial barriers so kids in Grades 6–12 can participate in sports, the arts, and vocational programs building skills, confidence, and a stronger future.
Why We Exist
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Impact of Being Disconnected
Youth who participate in sports, arts, and vocational training during high school graduate at higher rates, earn better grades and higher future wages, and experience significantly better mental health and lower involvement in risky behaviors.
Studies show youth are:
• 3× more likely to graduate high school and attend college (U.S. Dept. of Education & National Endowment for the Arts)
• Up to 40% higher test scores and 20% fewer disciplinary issues (Afterschool Alliance & Americans for the Arts)
• 7–8% higher adult earnings and 92% lower drug-use risk (EY & National Institute on Drug Abuse)
• Arts + vocational participants show 74% college aspiration rate vs. 43% for non-participants (NEA low-SES study)
The Impact of Being Disconnected
Youth who participate in sports, arts, and vocational training during high school graduate at higher rates, earn better grades and higher future wages, and experience significantly better mental health and lower involvement in risky behaviors.
Studies show youth are:
• 3× more likely to graduate high school and attend college (U.S. Dept. of Education & National Endowment for the Arts)
• Up to 40% higher test scores and 20% fewer disciplinary issues (Afterschool Alliance & Americans for the Arts)
• 7–8% higher adult earnings and 92% lower drug-use risk (EY & National Institute on Drug Abuse)
• Arts + vocational participants show 74% college aspiration rate vs. 43% for non-participants (NEA low-SES study)
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.
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.
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.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Be part of the solution today.
Choose how you want to help:
DONATE
Every dollar helps change lives. Ask how your donation can be used as a tax deduction.
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.
OUR INFO
Founder & CEO:
Shelly Kostic
Phone:
(623) 299-0441
Email:
Shelly@youthplayusa.org
Tax-Deductible EIN available upon request
Youth Play USA: Where Kids Discover Their Potential
Tax-Deductible EIN available upon request
Youth Play USA: Where Kids Discover Their Potential
OUR INFO
Founder & CEO:
Shelly Kostic
Phone:
(623) 299-0441
Email:
Shelly@youthplayusa.org