The Bud Award honors the legacy of Bud Lewis and his spirit of sportsmanship, fair play, and pure love of the game. Each year we recognize a nonprofit that reflects those same values by opening doors for youth to learn, grow, and play.
This year we are proud to recognize Big Yard Foundation, an organization that champions equity and opportunity for youth. The Big Yard Foundation is building an ecosystem of support for Portland’s systemically underserved communities, creating lasting change by leveling the playing field through education, creativity, and physical wellness.
Through its empowerment programs including the Big Yard Academy and community engagement initiatives, Big Yard provides the tools, resources, experiences, and opportunities that help individuals push beyond perceived limits and realize their potential. Its work fosters environments where individuals feel supported, challenged, connected, and inspired to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives
The Big Yard Foundation challenges individuals and the broader community to dream bigger, envision new possibilities for themselves and one another, and help shape a stronger future for the places they call home. They reflect the spirit of the Bud Award through its commitment to helping foster youth beat the odds and reach their full potential.
Congratulations to our 2026 Bud Award Recipient, Big Yard Foundation!