ABOUT KEEP PLAYING KIDS
Keep Playing Kids (“KPK“) is a national not-for-profit that provides FREE sports programs to underserved children in our communities. We provide fun, safe recreational activities to help keep kids stay active, introduce them to new sports and share the joy of PLAY.
KPK is funded by the donation of 1% of JAM Sports’ revenue (our adult recreational sports league partner), as well as from outside donations, allowing us to provide these programs to children for FREE.
At KPK, we believe every child deserves the chance to play, and we accept all children, regardless of their skill level, gender, race, religious or financial background. By leveling the playing field, we give all kids a chance to benefit and learn life skills from playing sports.
OUR MISSION
Keep Playing Kids provides free high quality sports programs to underserved children, helping them learn, grow and thrive through play. We focus on accessible sports and teaching life skills like teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship. We believe every child deserves the chance to PLAY.
THE VISION OF KPK
Our Origin Story
Keep Playing Kids (KPK) was born out of JAM Sports CEO Kristi Herold’s, love for play, sports, and giving back to her community. Recognizing the powerful impact of sports on physical and mental health of young people, as well as confidence, teamwork, leadership, and resilience, Kristi was determined to find a way to ensure these benefits were accessible to more children.
Kristi was also passionate about creating a platform where the hundreds of thousands of young adults who play with JAM Sports could be involved and have the option to give back—whether through financial donations or by volunteering their time—to help kids experience the same benefits of play that they enjoy.
The vision for KPK became reality when our first program launched in early 2020, however, was quickly forced to pause due to the global pandemic. Despite this setback and the challenges faced by JAM Sports during the pandemic, our commitment to the vision for KPK never wavered. In the winter of 2024, we proudly relaunched Keep Playing Kids and welcomed 60 kids into our inaugural program. The positive impact was immediate and inspiring.
In our first year of operation, KPK has grown to serve multiple program locations, positively impacting the lives of hundreds of children, and we will continue to expand our reach and impact.
Together we are building stronger communities, and more empowered youth, one game at a time.