Multnomah Athletic Foundation https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com Fri, 01 May 2026 20:35:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.5 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-MAF_Favicon-32x32.jpg Multnomah Athletic Foundation https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com 32 32 84085240 What We’re Reading Today: Listening to Kids About Sports https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/05/01/what-were-reading-today-listening-to-kids-about-sports/ Fri, 01 May 2026 20:35:16 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20271 Today we’re digging into new research from the Aspen Institute through its Project Play initiative—an eye-opening national study that centers the voices of young people in sports.

In partnership with Utah State University and Louisiana Tech University, nearly 4,000 youth ages 10–17 were surveyed about their experiences with organized sports—whether they currently play, used to play, or have never participated.

The headline finding is both simple and powerful: kids play sports because it’s fun and because they want to be with their friends. These motivations stand in sharp contrast to a youth sports culture that often emphasizes competition, specialization, and the pursuit of college scholarships.

The study also sheds light on why some young people step away from sports—or never start at all—highlighting barriers and pressures that can diminish what should be a positive, inclusive experience.

The takeaway is clear: if we want more kids to play and stay in sports, we need to design systems that reflect what they actually value. Fun. Friendship. Belonging.

It’s a timely reminder that the future of youth sports should be built with young people, not just for them.

Read the report and all 15 key findings here – https://projectplay.org/news/aspen-institute-national-survey-of-youth-and-sports-15-key-findings

]]> Today we’re digging into new research from the Aspen Institute through its Project Play initiative—an eye-opening national study that centers the voices of young people in sports.

In partnership with Utah State University and Louisiana Tech University, nearly 4,000 youth ages 10–17 were surveyed about their experiences with organized sports—whether they currently play, used to play, or have never participated.

The headline finding is both simple and powerful: kids play sports because it’s fun and because they want to be with their friends. These motivations stand in sharp contrast to a youth sports culture that often emphasizes competition, specialization, and the pursuit of college scholarships.

The study also sheds light on why some young people step away from sports—or never start at all—highlighting barriers and pressures that can diminish what should be a positive, inclusive experience.

The takeaway is clear: if we want more kids to play and stay in sports, we need to design systems that reflect what they actually value. Fun. Friendship. Belonging.

It’s a timely reminder that the future of youth sports should be built with young people, not just for them.

Read the report and all 15 key findings here – https://projectplay.org/news/aspen-institute-national-survey-of-youth-and-sports-15-key-findings

]]> 20271 2026 Annual Scholarship Celebration Event https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/05/01/2026-annual-scholarship-celebration-event/ Fri, 01 May 2026 19:59:56 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20267 Join us as we recognize the 2026 Scholarship Recipients for the Multnomah Athletic Foundation! The community of remarkable recipients, their fans, our volunteers and our donors will come together to celebrate on June 10th

Registration and RSVP coming soon!

The celebration will begin at 5 PM with socializing, networking, fun, games. The recognition program will begin at 5:45 PM. Following the program the food and fun will continue until 7:00 PM!

Event details:

  • The event is held at the Multnomah Athletic Club. 1849 SW Salmon St, Portland OR, 97205
  • In addition to the recognition of remarkable student athletes, the night features a buffet dinner, caricature artists, carnival games, and lots of opportunities to celebrate in style!
  • Come dressed in your favorite outfit that makes you feel confident and you. Cool sneakers encouraged! We want to see your creativity — whether that’s a fresh pair of kicks, a bold t-shirt, a sharp jacket, or your go-to outfit for a big day. No need to buy anything new — just show up ready to celebrate your achievements!
  • Each Scholarship Recipient can bring up to three (3) guests, if you require more than this, please reach out to the foundation directly to make special arrangements.

If you have any questions about this event, please contact the foundation via our Contact Us form.

]]> Join us as we recognize the 2026 Scholarship Recipients for the Multnomah Athletic Foundation! The community of remarkable recipients, their fans, our volunteers and our donors will come together to celebrate on June 10th

Registration and RSVP coming soon!

The celebration will begin at 5 PM with socializing, networking, fun, games. The recognition program will begin at 5:45 PM. Following the program the food and fun will continue until 7:00 PM!

Event details:

  • The event is held at the Multnomah Athletic Club. 1849 SW Salmon St, Portland OR, 97205
  • In addition to the recognition of remarkable student athletes, the night features a buffet dinner, caricature artists, carnival games, and lots of opportunities to celebrate in style!
  • Come dressed in your favorite outfit that makes you feel confident and you. Cool sneakers encouraged! We want to see your creativity — whether that’s a fresh pair of kicks, a bold t-shirt, a sharp jacket, or your go-to outfit for a big day. No need to buy anything new — just show up ready to celebrate your achievements!
  • Each Scholarship Recipient can bring up to three (3) guests, if you require more than this, please reach out to the foundation directly to make special arrangements.

If you have any questions about this event, please contact the foundation via our Contact Us form.

]]> 20267 Let’s go – We Believe in Portland! https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/04/01/lets-go-we-believe-in-portland-2026/ Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:33:27 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20248 Join us on April 17th as We Believe in Portland for a couple of hours of community service and connection at the Spring Cleanup Event! After the kick off at Providence Park, teams will spend one hour cleaning up assigned zones in downtown Portland to make our city shine. We will be assigned the area around the club. Afterward, gather at Midtown Beer Garden for great food, conversation, and the chance to celebrate our collective impact while supporting local businesses.

Bring your coworkers, friends, or family, put on your work gloves, and help us show some love for Portland. Together, we can make a positive difference for our community and the environment. See you there!

Schedule:
11:30 a.m.
Meet at MAC Turnaround for T-Shirts and Cleanup Supplies

11:45 a.m.
Walk to Providence Park 

12:00 PM
Clean-up begins at Providence Park

1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
After Party at Midtown Beer Garden

Please visit We Believe In Portland for more information and to register. Register as a WBIP Team Participant and select the Multnomah Athletic Club team option.

]]> Join us on April 17th as We Believe in Portland for a couple of hours of community service and connection at the Spring Cleanup Event! After the kick off at Providence Park, teams will spend one hour cleaning up assigned zones in downtown Portland to make our city shine. We will be assigned the area around the club. Afterward, gather at Midtown Beer Garden for great food, conversation, and the chance to celebrate our collective impact while supporting local businesses.

Bring your coworkers, friends, or family, put on your work gloves, and help us show some love for Portland. Together, we can make a positive difference for our community and the environment. See you there!

Schedule:
11:30 a.m.
Meet at MAC Turnaround for T-Shirts and Cleanup Supplies

11:45 a.m.
Walk to Providence Park 

12:00 PM
Clean-up begins at Providence Park

1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
After Party at Midtown Beer Garden

Please visit We Believe In Portland for more information and to register. Register as a WBIP Team Participant and select the Multnomah Athletic Club team option.

]]> 20248 Celebration and Gratitude for MAF Week https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/03/19/celebration-and-gratitude-for-maf-week/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:26:31 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20238 Oh…the opportunities to ride, move, celebrate and make a difference in the community!  During MAF Week 2026 with the 13th annual Spin-A-Thon to new events like the Youth Impact Summit, every moment was about movement, connection, and impact. Thanks to everyone who showed up and gave back — every dollar raised supports greater access to athletics and education for underserved youth.

Thank you again for the generous support. Tax acknowledgements will be sent next week.  We are deeply grateful for your partnership, and for the continued commitment from MAC, as we work to level the playing field for underserved youth in both athletics and education.

Still want to make a donation – you can do that HERE

Again thank you to our amazing 2026 Sponsors!

]]> Oh…the opportunities to ride, move, celebrate and make a difference in the community!  During MAF Week 2026 with the 13th annual Spin-A-Thon to new events like the Youth Impact Summit, every moment was about movement, connection, and impact. Thanks to everyone who showed up and gave back — every dollar raised supports greater access to athletics and education for underserved youth.

Thank you again for the generous support. Tax acknowledgements will be sent next week.  We are deeply grateful for your partnership, and for the continued commitment from MAC, as we work to level the playing field for underserved youth in both athletics and education.

Still want to make a donation – you can do that HERE

Again thank you to our amazing 2026 Sponsors!

]]> 20238 Informational Grant Events 2026 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/02/25/informational-grant-events-2026/ Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:27:35 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20173 Thinking about funding opportunities to get kids playing, participating, and moving through athletics?  Join a grant Q&A to learn more about funding from the Multnomah Athletic Foundation. Sessions are free, but require a reservation.

March 17 at Noon  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983996727620?aff=oddtdtcreator

April 21 at 6.30 PM https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983996972352?aff=oddtdtcreator

May 13 at 9 AM Contact us if interested via email or contact us form

We will talk a bit about our scope, funding, and criteria and then we want to hear about your community work and funding needs. This time is intended to give past grantees, current grant partners, grant seekers or any other interested in our work the opportunity to join and meet with our Executive Director and a board member or committee member. We have limited staff and still want everyone to have access to a personal conversation about grant funding before our June 1st grant cycle deadline. Attending is not required to submit an application. Come ask questions with no agendas and nothing formal.

Online applications open on March 1st and close on June 1st:  https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/grants/grant-details/

To learn more about out grant program, visit our grant page.

]]> Thinking about funding opportunities to get kids playing, participating, and moving through athletics?  Join a grant Q&A to learn more about funding from the Multnomah Athletic Foundation. Sessions are free, but require a reservation.

March 17 at Noon  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983996727620?aff=oddtdtcreator

April 21 at 6.30 PM https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983996972352?aff=oddtdtcreator

May 13 at 9 AM Contact us if interested via email or contact us form

We will talk a bit about our scope, funding, and criteria and then we want to hear about your community work and funding needs. This time is intended to give past grantees, current grant partners, grant seekers or any other interested in our work the opportunity to join and meet with our Executive Director and a board member or committee member. We have limited staff and still want everyone to have access to a personal conversation about grant funding before our June 1st grant cycle deadline. Attending is not required to submit an application. Come ask questions with no agendas and nothing formal.

Online applications open on March 1st and close on June 1st:  https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/grants/grant-details/

To learn more about out grant program, visit our grant page.

]]> 20173 Be a Scholarship Volunteer https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/02/16/be-a-scholarship-volunteer/ Mon, 16 Feb 2026 20:55:36 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20152 Each spring, volunteers with the Multnomah Athletic Foundation step into one of the most meaningful roles in our community — serving on the Scholarship Review Team. These dedicated volunteers review applications for the Loprinzi and MAC Scholar Athlete programs, thoughtfully considering stories of resilience, leadership, athletic dedication, academic achievement, and financial need. 

Our scholarships exist because we believe participation in athletics helps young people reach their full potential, and that support can make a significant difference in a student’s ability to pursue higher education. As a reviewer, you become part of that impact. 

Volunteers receive training and support, complete individual reviews online, and then gather for facilitated in-person deliberation meetings to help select finalists from high schools across the Portland metro area. It’s a powerful way to connect with inspiring young leaders and ensure opportunity reaches those who need it most. 

If you care about youth, education, athletics, and equity — this is your moment. Your time, perspective, and voice can help open doors. 

Join us. Help read. Help decide. Change a life. 

The foundation is currently seeking volunteers to join the 2026 review teams for their scholarship opportunities. Volunteers can participate in one review team or multiple, if schedules allow.

Time commitment overview

Loprinzi Scholarship Program – selects the school finalists from high school seniors
March 14-April 12:       Using an online system, read and score applications for meeting preparation
April 13-19:                    Participate in an in-person review team deliberation meeting (1.5/2 hours)

MAC Scholar Athlete Program – selects the final recipients from the nominated high school sophomores
April 27 – May 15:           Using an online system, read and score applications for meeting preparation
May 16 – 22:                   Participate an in-person review team deliberation meeting (1.5/2 hours)

Interested volunteers should fill out the involvement form below and mark off the “Scholarship Review Team” option in Section 2.

… Read more... ]]> Each spring, volunteers with the Multnomah Athletic Foundation step into one of the most meaningful roles in our community — serving on the Scholarship Review Team. These dedicated volunteers review applications for the Loprinzi and MAC Scholar Athlete programs, thoughtfully considering stories of resilience, leadership, athletic dedication, academic achievement, and financial need. 

Our scholarships exist because we believe participation in athletics helps young people reach their full potential, and that support can make a significant difference in a student’s ability to pursue higher education. As a reviewer, you become part of that impact. 

Volunteers receive training and support, complete individual reviews online, and then gather for facilitated in-person deliberation meetings to help select finalists from high schools across the Portland metro area. It’s a powerful way to connect with inspiring young leaders and ensure opportunity reaches those who need it most. 

If you care about youth, education, athletics, and equity — this is your moment. Your time, perspective, and voice can help open doors. 

Join us. Help read. Help decide. Change a life. 

The foundation is currently seeking volunteers to join the 2026 review teams for their scholarship opportunities. Volunteers can participate in one review team or multiple, if schedules allow.

Time commitment overview

Loprinzi Scholarship Program – selects the school finalists from high school seniors
March 14-April 12:       Using an online system, read and score applications for meeting preparation
April 13-19:                    Participate in an in-person review team deliberation meeting (1.5/2 hours)

MAC Scholar Athlete Program – selects the final recipients from the nominated high school sophomores
April 27 – May 15:           Using an online system, read and score applications for meeting preparation
May 16 – 22:                   Participate an in-person review team deliberation meeting (1.5/2 hours)

Interested volunteers should fill out the involvement form below and mark off the “Scholarship Review Team” option in Section 2.

  • We need your time and talent!

    The Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a small staff. We are always looking for individuals to serve as board members, committee volunteers, to help with special events and to review scholarship applications. Working together, we can enable and inspire youth through athletics and education.

    We look forward to talking to you about your interest areas, talents and willingness to get involved!  Get started by completing this form – basic information, interest areas and two questions.  We will respond and find the best way to utilize your talents and time! A board member or staff member will get in touch.

    We are always looking for committee members and volunteers!

  • Section 1

  • Section 2

    What fits your interest and available time?

  • Section 3

    Tell us about your community involvement/work. What inspires you about making an impact for your community, youth through education and athletic participation?

  • Section 4

    Why would you like to get involved with the Multnomah Athletic Foundation?

]]> 20152 Your Voice Belongs at the Table https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/01/19/your-voice-belongs-at-the-table/ Mon, 19 Jan 2026 18:21:45 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20098 At the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, we strive to be a space where power and possibility are shared within the community. Our work centers on building authentic relationships with those engaged in grants and scholarships, donors, volunteers, and friends of the foundation  -all with the goal of funding opportunity for youth.

As we continue to grow, we invite individuals to self-nominate for our Board of Directors and to get involved through our committees and review teams. We believe leadership should reflect the communities we serve, and self-nomination is one way we open doors to new voices, experiences, and perspectives.

Our foundation provides character- and confidence-building opportunities for youth, prioritizing underserved and underrepresented communities by increasing access to athletics and education. We see our board and volunteers as an incubator of leadership, connection, and impact that turns shared commitment into real resources for young people.

Ways to Get Involved

  • Board of Directors
  • Committees: Communications, Community Engagement & Events, Finance & Investment, Grants, Scholarships, Youth Grant Initiative (YGI)
  • Scholarship Review Teams (March–May)
  • Grant Review Team (June–September)

Whether you bring professional expertise, lived experience, or simply a deep belief in our mission, there is a meaningful role for you here.

We’d love to have you join us.
To get started, please complete our interest form

]]> At the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, we strive to be a space where power and possibility are shared within the community. Our work centers on building authentic relationships with those engaged in grants and scholarships, donors, volunteers, and friends of the foundation  -all with the goal of funding opportunity for youth.

As we continue to grow, we invite individuals to self-nominate for our Board of Directors and to get involved through our committees and review teams. We believe leadership should reflect the communities we serve, and self-nomination is one way we open doors to new voices, experiences, and perspectives.

Our foundation provides character- and confidence-building opportunities for youth, prioritizing underserved and underrepresented communities by increasing access to athletics and education. We see our board and volunteers as an incubator of leadership, connection, and impact that turns shared commitment into real resources for young people.

Ways to Get Involved

  • Board of Directors
  • Committees: Communications, Community Engagement & Events, Finance & Investment, Grants, Scholarships, Youth Grant Initiative (YGI)
  • Scholarship Review Teams (March–May)
  • Grant Review Team (June–September)

Whether you bring professional expertise, lived experience, or simply a deep belief in our mission, there is a meaningful role for you here.

We’d love to have you join us.
To get started, please complete our interest form

]]> 20098 Scholarship Resources to Fund Your Future https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2026/01/07/scholarship-resources-to-fund-your-future/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 01:29:28 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=20054 Higher education opens doors to new opportunities, but the cost can be a major hurdle for many students. At the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, we believe in supporting students by connecting them with resources to help fund their education. Whether you’re a high school senior, or know someone navigating the scholarship search, here are four key scholarship programs to explore! 

1. The Ford Family Foundation Scholarships 

The Ford Family Foundation provides generous scholarships to students in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California, aiming to make college more accessible for those in financial need. Their programs support a variety of learners, including first-generation college students and adults returning to school. 

📌 Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
📌 Award Amount: Up to $40,000 per year 
📌 Who Can Apply: Oregon and Siskiyou County, Calif. students from all backgrounds 

This scholarship is a game-changer, covering tuition, fees, and even some living expenses to ensure students can focus on their education. Learn more and apply at The Ford Family Foundation. 

2. Get Schooled: A Hub for Scholarships & College Resources 

If you’re searching for more scholarship opportunities, Get Schooled is a fantastic resource. This online platform offers: 
✔️ A constantly updated list of scholarships 
✔️ College application and essay-writing tips 
✔️ Free college and career advising 

Visit Get Schooled to explore available scholarships and gain insights on how to craft a strong application. 

3. Portland Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Scholarships 

For Latino students in the Portland metro area, the Portland Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce offers scholarships to help fund higher education. They provide financial assistance to students committed to academic success and community leadership. 

📌 Who Can Apply: Hispanic students residing in Oregon OR Clark County, Washington 
📌 Additional Resources: Mentorship and networking opportunities 

Check out their website here for upcoming scholarship opportunities. 

4. And of Course, Us! – Multnomah Athletic Foundation Scholarships 

At the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, we are committed to empowering student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, resilience, and a dedication to their communities. Our scholarship programs provide financial support to local students pursuing higher education. 

📌 Applications Close: March 1, 2026

📌 Scholarships Available: Multiple scholarships with varying eligibility criteria 

We are passionate about supporting students in our community, and we encourage all eligible applicants to apply! Learn more about our scholarship programs and how to apply by visiting our Scholarships page. 

]]> Higher education opens doors to new opportunities, but the cost can be a major hurdle for many students. At the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, we believe in supporting students by connecting them with resources to help fund their education. Whether you’re a high school senior, or know someone navigating the scholarship search, here are four key scholarship programs to explore! 

1. The Ford Family Foundation Scholarships 

The Ford Family Foundation provides generous scholarships to students in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California, aiming to make college more accessible for those in financial need. Their programs support a variety of learners, including first-generation college students and adults returning to school. 

📌 Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
📌 Award Amount: Up to $40,000 per year 
📌 Who Can Apply: Oregon and Siskiyou County, Calif. students from all backgrounds 

This scholarship is a game-changer, covering tuition, fees, and even some living expenses to ensure students can focus on their education. Learn more and apply at The Ford Family Foundation. 

2. Get Schooled: A Hub for Scholarships & College Resources 

If you’re searching for more scholarship opportunities, Get Schooled is a fantastic resource. This online platform offers: 
✔️ A constantly updated list of scholarships 
✔️ College application and essay-writing tips 
✔️ Free college and career advising 

Visit Get Schooled to explore available scholarships and gain insights on how to craft a strong application. 

3. Portland Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Scholarships 

For Latino students in the Portland metro area, the Portland Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce offers scholarships to help fund higher education. They provide financial assistance to students committed to academic success and community leadership. 

📌 Who Can Apply: Hispanic students residing in Oregon OR Clark County, Washington 
📌 Additional Resources: Mentorship and networking opportunities 

Check out their website here for upcoming scholarship opportunities. 

4. And of Course, Us! – Multnomah Athletic Foundation Scholarships 

At the Multnomah Athletic Foundation, we are committed to empowering student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, resilience, and a dedication to their communities. Our scholarship programs provide financial support to local students pursuing higher education. 

📌 Applications Close: March 1, 2026

📌 Scholarships Available: Multiple scholarships with varying eligibility criteria 

We are passionate about supporting students in our community, and we encourage all eligible applicants to apply! Learn more about our scholarship programs and how to apply by visiting our Scholarships page. 

]]> 20054 Golden Ticket Raffle: Win Big & Give Back https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2025/12/03/golden-ticket-raffle-win-big-give-back/ Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:34:41 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=19988 The MAC Holiday Fashion Show Golden Ticket raffle is back, once again powered by the generous support of Alaska Airlines. One lucky winner will take home an exceptional prize: two round-trip tickets with no blackout dates, valid on both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, to any destination they fly in Canada, the U.S., or Central America.

Only 250 tickets will be sold, so your chances are strong—and tickets won’t last long.

Why Your Ticket Matters

Every raffle ticket supports the Multnomah Athletic Foundation’s mission to expand opportunity for young people. Your contribution helps provide scholarships that open doors for students and grant funding to nonprofit organizations that increase access and remove barriers to education and athletics.

When you enter the raffle, you’re not just planning your next trip—you’re helping young people pursue their goals.

    Get Your Golden Ticket

    A great prize, limited availability, and meaningful impact. Don’t miss your chance.

    Click here to purchase a ticket
    ]]>     The MAC Holiday Fashion Show Golden Ticket raffle is back, once again powered by the generous support of Alaska Airlines. One lucky winner will take home an exceptional prize: two round-trip tickets with no blackout dates, valid on both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, to any destination they fly in Canada, the U.S., or Central America.

    Only 250 tickets will be sold, so your chances are strong—and tickets won’t last long.

    Why Your Ticket Matters

    Every raffle ticket supports the Multnomah Athletic Foundation’s mission to expand opportunity for young people. Your contribution helps provide scholarships that open doors for students and grant funding to nonprofit organizations that increase access and remove barriers to education and athletics.

    When you enter the raffle, you’re not just planning your next trip—you’re helping young people pursue their goals.

      Get Your Golden Ticket

      A great prize, limited availability, and meaningful impact. Don’t miss your chance.

      Click here to purchase a ticket
      ]]>       19988       2025 Bud Award Recipient: Project Lemonade https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/2025/11/19/2025-bud-award-recipient-project-lemonade/ Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:51:54 +0000 https://www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com/?p=19836


      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 Project Lemonade, an organization that champions equity and opportunity for foster youth. Project Lemonade provides high-quality programming that builds confidence, fosters perseverance, and supports personal growth for young people navigating the foster care system.

      Their initiatives include the Project Lemonade Store, internships, and support for teens aging out of care. The WISH Program (What Inspires Students’ Hearts) helps youth participate in sports, camps, and enrichment activities that build teamwork, confidence, and inclusion. Through mentorship, enrichment, and wraparound support, Project Lemonade helps youth develop the resilience and self-esteem they need to thrive.

      Project Lemonade reflects the spirit of the Bud Award through its commitment to helping foster youth beat the odds and reach their full potential.

      Congratulations to our 2025 Bud Award Recipient, Project Lemonade. 

      ]]>


      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 Project Lemonade, an organization that champions equity and opportunity for foster youth. Project Lemonade provides high-quality programming that builds confidence, fosters perseverance, and supports personal growth for young people navigating the foster care system.

      Their initiatives include the Project Lemonade Store, internships, and support for teens aging out of care. The WISH Program (What Inspires Students’ Hearts) helps youth participate in sports, camps, and enrichment activities that build teamwork, confidence, and inclusion. Through mentorship, enrichment, and wraparound support, Project Lemonade helps youth develop the resilience and self-esteem they need to thrive.

      Project Lemonade reflects the spirit of the Bud Award through its commitment to helping foster youth beat the odds and reach their full potential.

      Congratulations to our 2025 Bud Award Recipient, Project Lemonade. 

      ]]>       19836