Children playing and performing in youth activities
Safeguarding & Advancing Youth Athletics

Every Child Deserves
to Play

We help children in the Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia access the sports, dance, theater, and activities that shape who they become, regardless of what their family can afford.

Campaign Goal$10,000

Help us reach 100 children and families in 2026

Support a Child
Child in dance class

100

children & families to help in 2026

Our Story

Why We Started SAYA

We are a group of parents, coaches, former athletes, and community members who believe every child deserves the chance to move, play, perform, belong, and grow.

Sports, dance, theater, music, and youth activities give children so much more than something to do after school. They build confidence. They create friendships. They teach discipline, courage, teamwork, resilience, and joy. They give kids a place to be known outside of a screen.

But too many children are missing out simply because the cost is too high. In the Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia, this is especially true for military families, single-parent households, and families facing financial hardship.

"
She had the interest.
She had the heart.
She just did not have access.

The story that started SAYA Collective

Why It Matters

The Numbers Tell the Story

Screen Time

8+ hrs

Average daily screen time for kids ages 8–18

Common Sense Media, 2023

More likely to struggle with anxiety and depression with high screen use

JAMA Pediatrics

95%

Of teens have access to a smartphone, but far fewer have access to organized sports

Pew Research, 2024

Rising Costs

$883

Average annual cost per child for one youth sport

Aspen Institute, 2023

$20K+

What elite youth sports can cost per year for travel and fees

Washington Post

57%

Of families say cost is the #1 reason their child stopped playing sports

Project Play, 2024

Kids' Health

1 in 5

Children in the U.S. is considered obese, the highest rate ever recorded

CDC, 2024

76%

Of kids ages 6–17 are not getting the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity

CDC

40%

Lower risk of depression in kids who participate in team sports vs. those who don't

British Journal of Sports Medicine

The data is clear. Kids need to move, compete, create, and belong. SAYA makes that possible.

Apply for Assistance
2026 Goal

100

Children & Families Helped

Current Fundraising Goal

$10K

to open doors for kids in our community

Serving

The Lowcountry & Coastal Georgia

Activities We Support
SportsDanceTheaterMusicCheerGymnasticsMartial ArtsArtAnd more
Every Child Belongs

Sports, Arts, and Everything In Between

SAYA supports kids in any activity that helps them grow, belong, and thrive.

Kids dancing in a gym
Kids drawing at easels in art class
Young fencers competing
Young gymnast on the balance beam
Instructor teaching a boy guitar
Kids holding tennis rackets at the net
Children in a ballet class at the barre
Children performing on stage
Kids at soccer practice with cones
Young swimmers in the pool
Children sparring in martial arts class
Young softball player in action
How We Help

What Your Donation Covers

Funds raised are paid directly to youth organizations on behalf of children and families. We handle the logistics so kids can focus on showing up.

Tuition & Enrollment

Ongoing class or program fees paid directly to the organization

Registration Fees

Season or tryout registration costs covered upfront

Uniforms & Costumes

Team jerseys, dance costumes, performance attire

Equipment & Gear

Cleats, gloves, instruments, protective gear, and more

Recital & Competition Fees

Entry fees, performance costs, and event registrations

Shoes & Apparel

Dance shoes, athletic footwear, and required clothing

Apply for Assistance

Let's Get Your Child Involved

Fill out the form below and we'll reach out to discuss how SAYA can help your family. No application is too small. Every child matters.

We move fast.

Once approved, we work directly with the sports organization, studio, or program to arrange payment so your child can get started right away. No reimbursements, no waiting. Just kids playing.

Applications are reviewed monthly. Submit by the 15th to be considered for the following month's assistance grants. The parent or legal guardian on file will be contacted via email to schedule an application review. All information is kept confidential.

Get in Touch

Whether you're a family seeking help, a community partner, a sponsor, or someone who just wants to get involved, we'd love to hear from you.

Send Us a Message