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What We Do

The Problem

Over the past few decades, the privatization of youth sports has led to a decline in public recreation and interscholastic athletics, and a rapid increase in registration fees across the board. This phenomenon is known as the “pay to play” model.  This reality has led to a growing inequity divide as illustrated in a recent Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) survey that reported only 38 percent of kids from families with a household income of $25,000 or less are playing team sports, contrasted with a 67 percent of kids from homes with annual incomes of $100,000 or more.

Our Solution

Leveling the Playing Field collects new and gently-used sports and playground equipment from local youth sports communities. Volunteers then sort the donations in our warehouse so we can distribute the gear to schools and organizations working to provide an affordable and accessible option to under-resourced youth groups, community programs and schools throughout several markets.

In evaluating our success, a primary benefit LPF brings to youth sports organizations is the ability to reallocate equipment funds towards other aspects of their program that increases affordability and accessibility. 90% of our beneficiaries report that they have additional financial flexibility for their program as a result of our donations.

Our beneficiaries maximize the impact of LPF’s support in a myriad of ways. Some offer additional after-school transportation for kids without a way to an afternoon activity. Others can purchase snacks and beverages for their participants. Several use their additional flexibility to hire and train more staff in order to run additional programs and provide more personalized coaching and supervision.

 

Learn more

90%

of programs reallocated funds

80%

increase in participation

$14,000,000

distributed

2,000+

programs impacted

Follow Us On Instagram:

Our metal donation bins have a variety of partners Our metal donation bins have a variety of partners, colors, and locations, but the goal for each is the same: to collect new and gently used sports equipment in your neighborhood ⚽🏀🏈🏒⚾🎾

Visit our Donation Bin Locator in our bio and story to find your closest LPF metal bin
LPF’s Champions of Play Monthly Giving Program s LPF’s Champions of Play Monthly Giving Program supports LPF as we aim to increase our impact and access to youth sports for ALL kids 🏆

In addition to supporting our mission, Champions of Play can access exclusive LPF swag!

Learn more in our bio and story
In Buffalo, NY, basketball is now popular than eve In Buffalo, NY, basketball is now popular than ever at @senecastreetcdc after visiting the @lpfwny warehouse🏀

Impact stories like these are plenty of motivation to make sure every kid can play sports without worrying about equipment!

Want To Help Get More Kids Involved?

See what you can do >
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