Beyond the Score: Every Kid Sports empowers Central Oregon youth athletes and their families

A local nonprofit with a national reach is making waves across the country, but its biggest impact might be happening right here in Central Oregon. Every Kid Sports, a national nonprofit focused on making youth sports accessible, is stepping up for families in communities like La Pine, where recent changes left kids with fewer opportunities to play.

Earlier this year, La Pine Park and Recreation District terminated its youth sports programs, leaving families with less local options. That’s when Every Kid Sports stepped in, and with a $4,000 grant from La Pine Parks and Rec, they’re now helping 40 local kids stay in the game.

“This is just the beginning of what we're going to start to see,” Elena Fanaika said. “Sports are such an impactful thing on youth, and we believe the community is going to come together. This will be the igniting point.”

But their impact isn’t stopping in La Pine. Through their newly launched "Born in Bend" initiative, the nonprofit plans to help 2,500 kids across Central Oregon over the next three years, a 350% increase from the number they currently support.

"We know it's possible,” said Fanaika. “And that’s where we’re focused right now.”

So How Does It Work?

Every Kid Sports raises funds through donations and sponsorships. That money goes toward digital debit cards, created specifically to help low-income families cover registration fees for the sports program of their choice. Families can apply for the funds online or in person.

“Those fees go to things we don’t always think about — paying coaches, maintaining facilities, even providing porta potties,” Fanaika said. “We need reliable resources for the community. But none of that’s possible if kids can’t pay to participate.”

The goal is simple: give a chance for every kid to play.

“Sports are for everyone, whether that’s taekwondo or organized football. And everything in between,” Fanaika said. “We’ve supported archery, dance, soccer, you name it. What matters is giving kids the chance to grow their community through activity and movement.”

For more information visit everykidsports.org.