Welcome to Joey's Gifts!​ As a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on children, we honor Joey's memory by empowering young athletes facing financial challenges. We recognize the economic barriers that prevent some families from allowing their children to join sports organizations. The costs involved can be significant. Participation in sports is not just a recreational activity; it plays a crucial role in a child's development, teaching essential life skills that will benefit them in adulthood. Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, growth, and camaraderie that kids gain from being part of a team. 

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We understand that many talented athletes do not have the opportunity to play for an organized team, regardless of how passionate, committed, or driven they may be. This lack of opportunity can lead to frustration, disappointment, and sadness. In today's economy, many families cannot afford the fees required to enroll their children in sports. That’s why we want to help.

 

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"Our scholarships pay for registration, uniform, and/or equipment fees to help you and your children."

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The motivation behind our Sports Scholarship Program for Young Athletes is inspired by our beloved grandson, Joey. At the tender age of nine, Joey was passionate about sports, especially soccer. He once wrote a heartfelt essay for school, expressing the joy of the game and the importance of making it accessible to everyone. He stated, "Everyone and anyone should play sports, especially soccer." His belief resonated with us deeply. Through soccer, he learned invaluable lessons about teamwork, leadership, respect, and good sportsmanship—values that shaped him into an incredible young person.

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As his family, we witnessed firsthand how soccer transformed Joey's life. It was more than just a pastime for him; it became a source of confidence, self-esteem, and pure joy. Tragically, just five days after his last game of the season, we lost Joey, leaving an irreplaceable hole in our hearts. Despite our sorrow, we found purpose in our grief. We carry his legacy forward through Joey's Gifts, with the hope of creating pathways for children to develop essential life skills through the power of sports, just as Joey envisioned.

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Please pass this information to families that could use our help. 

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If you are interested, please assist your children in completing our sports scholarship application below. They will need to write two essays that showcase their passion for sports. Additionally, ensure that the application contains the organization's information. We will work directly with the organization to help cover your fees.

 

According to the icon Walt Disney, "When you wish upon a star, Dreams really do come true!"

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Read on to learn more about how our Safety and Animal programs help children and animals in our community.