Welcome to Joey's Gifts, where we celebrate the vibrant spirit of Joey, a talented young boy whose life was tragically cut short at just nine years old. 

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As a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on children, our mission is to 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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At Joey's Gifts, we are committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of their financial situation, has the chance to pursue their dreams in sports. Our sports scholarship program provides financial support to children and their families. How do we achieve this?

 

We know that many talented athletes do not get the opportunity to play for an organized team, no matter how passionate, committed, or driven they are. It can cause frustration, disappointment, and sadness. In this economy, too many families cannot afford to pay the fees for their sons and daughters to play. That's why we want to help. 

 

"Our scholarships pay for registration 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 not merely 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. Yet, amidst our sorrow, we found purpose, and we carry his legacy forward through Joey's Gifts. We want to help create pathways for children to develop essential life skills through the power of sports, just as Joey envisioned.​

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

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If interested, help your children complete our sports scholarship application below. They need to fill in two essays to demonstrate their passion. And please make sure the application includes the organization's information. We will work with the organization directly to help pay for 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.