We are Leaders for Youth Sports
Leaders for Youth Sports is a nonprofit organization led by youth, for youth. We are committed to making youth sports more accessible to every child and inspiring young leaders to take charge in their communities.
Through our branch program, we support youth as they lead sports equity projects in their schools and regions. Leaders for Youth Sports serves many kids in different regions through advocacy events, sports clinics, and sports equipment donations.
Mission
Making youth sports more equitable and build future leaders.
Vision
A world where all kids can play sports and feel empowered to lead.
Values
Service Through Leadership: We value community service through a cycle of leading and inspiring others to do the same.
Unity: We create more impact when we come together and combine what we each have to offer.
Modeling Integrity: We always serve our community with trust, transparency, and honorability as an organization and as individuals.
Inclusion: Inclusion is embedded into our mission. We purposefully supply these principles in our work, relationships, and policies so that everyone feels welcome and safe.
We are supporting youth to create change in sports.
Our Why
Millions of children in the United States and around the world do not have access to youth sports. Whether it's the high price of classes, expensive sports equipment, or difficulty finding transportation, inequities in youth sports block too many children from pursuing the activities that they love.
The benefits of participating in sports are immeasurable. Not only does it keep kids physically active, but mentally well and balanced. Sports develop confidence in children and teach skills such as self-discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Kids who play sports do better in life.
Too often, our future changemakers are told "no" and are taught to remain complacent. When kids see a problem, we need to encourage them to do something about it, trust in their ideas, and support their potential.
Our Solution: Build Leaders for Youth Sports
Leadership Program
We have a wonderful team of young Branch Leaders, coordinating Leaders for Youth Sports projects in their communities. Our Leaders conduct a multitude of different projects including equipment drives, equipment distributions, coaching clinics, and more.
We provide support to our leaders with our nonprofit status, custom toolkits, personalized advice, and a network of people.
Branch Program
Our experienced Project Leaders are able to apply to become Branch Leaders to widen their impact. Starting a Leaders for Youth Sports Branch gives youth the opportunity to learn how to host more complex events that may involve finances such as run/walk events and sports days. With the benefit of our curated event toolkits, Branch Advisors providing personalized advice, nonprofit status for ease of receiving partnerships, and possible financial support, starting a Branch is a great way to learn new skills and drive lasting change.
Branch Leaders have the opportunity to be selected for our Team of Advisors.
Media Featurings
For media inquiries, contact info@leadersforyouthsports.org
Leaders for Youth Sports partnered with Raising Cane's at the Portage location's grand opening in 2026.
Brianna Zhang (Executive Director) named 2025 Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award Regional Honoree.
Article and video news feature about 501(c)(3) launch and the 2024 Miles 4 Smiles 5K.
Radio feature about our 2024 Miles 4 Smiles 5K and nonprofit plans.
Service Learning Through Sports sizzle reel about our work.
Article about the 2023 Miles 4 Smiles 5K.
Service Learning Through Sports 2024 Grant Recipient.
Player Spotlight about our 2023 Miles 4 Smiles 5K.
News feature about the 2023 Miles 4 Smiles 5K.
News article launching the Miles 4 Smiles campaign in 2023.