FAQ - SAYA Collective

Question 1

Who can apply for SAYA assistance?

Accepted Answer

Any parent or guardian of a child in the Lowcountry or Coastal Georgia area who needs financial help to participate in a youth sport, arts program, or activity. There is no strict income cutoff — we review each application individually and consider the full picture.

Question 2

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Fill out the short application form on our website. We ask about your child, the activity they want to participate in, and your household situation. No lengthy paperwork — just the basics. You can find the form on our homepage.

Question 3

What information do I need to provide?

Accepted Answer

Basic information about your child, the activity or program they want to join, and a brief description of your need. We do not require tax returns or extensive financial documentation.

Question 4

Can someone refer a family to SAYA?

Accepted Answer

Yes — coaches, teachers, neighbors, and community members are welcome to make referrals. However, the family must choose to apply themselves before SAYA reviews a request or contacts any youth organization on their behalf.

Question 5

How long does the review process take?

Accepted Answer

Most families hear back within a few business days. We personally review every application and may reach out with a quick follow-up question if needed.

Question 6

Can I apply for more than one child?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please submit a separate application for each child so we can review each request individually.

Question 7

What costs does SAYA help with?

Accepted Answer

We cover registration and enrollment fees, uniforms and required gear, equipment (cleats, gloves, instruments, etc.), tournament and competition fees, lesson and coaching fees, and transportation assistance on a case-by-case basis.

Question 8

Does SAYA cover arts and non-sports activities?

Accepted Answer

Yes. SAYA supports youth participation in sports, arts, and other structured youth activities. If your child wants to join a dance program, theater group, or music class, we want to help.

Question 9

Does SAYA give money directly to families?

Accepted Answer

No. Funds are paid directly to the vetted youth organization or provider on behalf of the child. This keeps things simple, transparent, and accountable for everyone involved.

Question 10

Is there a maximum amount SAYA will cover?

Accepted Answer

We review each request based on available funds and the specific costs involved. We do not publish a fixed maximum — reach out if you are unsure whether your need qualifies.

Question 11

Will my family's information be kept private?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Information you share is used only to review your request, verify costs, communicate with the selected program when needed, and process support if approved. We will never share your family's identity, financial situation, or story without your written permission.

Question 12

Will other families or community members know we received help?

Accepted Answer

No. Families receiving support are never identified publicly to other families, participants, or community members. Approved funds go directly to the program — your family's involvement stays private.

Question 13

Will SAYA contact the youth organization without my permission?

Accepted Answer

We will only contact a youth organization as part of reviewing or processing your approved application. We do not reach out to programs before a family applies.

Question 14

Will SAYA use my child's story or photo for fundraising?

Accepted Answer

Never without your written permission. We believe every family deserves dignity, and that means your story is yours to share — or not share — on your own terms.

Question 15

Where does my donation go?

Accepted Answer

One hundred percent of donations go directly toward a child's participation costs. We keep operations lean on purpose so your gift reaches a child, not overhead.

Question 16

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Accepted Answer

SAYA Collective is currently a mission-led community initiative and is not yet a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Contributions may not be tax-deductible as charitable donations at this time. We are exploring fiscal sponsorship and nonprofit options.

Question 17

How do I know my donation was used appropriately?

Accepted Answer

Funds are paid directly to vetted youth programs — never as cash to families. We vet every program against SAYA safety standards before any funds are released. Donors receive impact updates as the fund grows.

Question 18

Can businesses sponsor SAYA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have six corporate sponsorship tiers from $250 to $10,000, each with meaningful recognition. Visit our sponsorship page to learn more or reach out through our contact form.

Question 19

What does SAYA stand for?

Accepted Answer

SAYA stands for Safeguarding and Advancing Youth Athletics. We are a community initiative based in the Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia focused on removing financial barriers to youth sports and activities.

Question 20

Is SAYA a nonprofit?

Accepted Answer

SAYA is currently a mission-led community initiative. We are not yet a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, but we are exploring that path. We operate with full transparency and accountability.

Question 21

How does SAYA vet programs before sending funds?

Accepted Answer

Before any funds are released, we verify that the program has background-screened coaches, a safe environment, and age-appropriate activities. Your child only goes somewhere we trust.

Question 22

How can I get involved beyond donating?

Accepted Answer

You can volunteer in a variety of roles — coaching support, transportation, mentorship, operations, and more. You can also help start a SAYA chapter in your community. Visit our volunteer page or start-a-chapter page to learn more.

Frequently Asked
Questions

Applying for Assistance

What SAYA Covers

Privacy and Your Family

For Donors

About SAYA

Privacy and Dignity Statement

Still Have Questions?

Frequently AskedQuestions