Youth sports change lives—but access isn’t equal.

Research shows that participation in organized sports improves confidence, teamwork, discipline, academic performance, and leadership skills. In fact, over 70% of youth athletes report higher self-esteem and stronger social skills through team sports, and students who play sports are more likely to stay engaged in school and graduate. Yet nearly 1 in 3 children drop out of sports due to financial barriers, including registration fees, travel costs, equipment, and training expenses.

This is where nonprofits play a critical role.

As a nonprofit, the Carolina Reapers Foundation exists to fill the gap where families and communities need support most. Campaigning allows us to raise the resources necessary to provide affordable access, safe training environments, quality coaching, and character-focused development—not just basketball instruction.

Our mission is to develop young athletes through basketball by promoting skill development, character, discipline, and teamwork. With donor and community support, we create an inclusive environment that empowers players to grow on and off the court, build confidence, develop leadership skills, and form a lifelong love for the game.

Campaigning isn’t about extras—it’s about equity. Every dollar raised helps remove barriers so young athletes can focus on learning, growing, and becoming strong teammates, students, and future leaders.