What We Do

WHAT WE DO

The CFY Story & Our Focus

Since its founding in 1972, CFY has been dedicated to supporting youth athletics programs and organizations with a strong emphasis on skill-building activities. Each year, we reach over 15,000 children—and that number continues to grow. Our funding efforts ensure that cost is never a barrier for children in Pinellas County to participate in the activities they love. Every dollar donated directly supports a child’s access to these opportunities. CFY's impact is driven by three core focus areas: Youth Athletic Grants, Education, and Water Safety.

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Committed to youth athletic and art programs in the last decade

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Youth served annually in Pinellas county

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Annually in CFY postsecondary commitment to education in 2025

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K-2 students life saving water safety lessons in 2025

youth athletics

FOCUS AREA

Youth Athletic Grants

Through our grant program, CFY provides access, equipment, and funding to a wide range of youth programs, supporting organizations across the county. Our grants cover thousands of participant registration fees, fund equipment upgrades and safety measures, and provide assistance to qualified athletes competing at regional and national levels. This program fosters community-based support for organizations that serve underserved youth.

We currently fund:

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FOCUS AREA

Education

CFY currently supports 85 students with a total of $500,000 in post-secondary education funding.

 

Our impact includes:

33 Students Supported by Take Stock in Children Partnership

Our $50,000 annual investment is matched to double its impact through our Take Stock in Children partnership with the Pinellas Education Foundation.

52 Seniors Supported through the ROJ Scholarship Program

With a $400,000 investment, we have ensured students can pursue higher education without financial burden.


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Fred Fisher Water Safety

Launched as a pilot program in 2022, the Fred Fisher Water Safety Program provides life-saving water safety lessons to Title 1 elementary schools. Drowning remains a leading cause of death among young children, making accessible water safety education absolutely crucial. By eliminating barriers like transportation and cost, CFY ensures that more children gain the skills they need to stay safe in and around water.

Our impact in 2024:

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Title I schools served across the Pinellas county community

80%

Of children had never received formal water safety lessons before the program

2,400

K-12 students taught life-saving water safety lessons

BY THE NUMBERS

Breaking Down Community Investment 

CFY has an endowment with enough resources to offset its administrative cost, allowing 100% of all funds generated be directed back into the community to make the greatest impact on the families we serve. 

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Youth Athletic Program Giving

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Education

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Water Safety

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Arts & Culture

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GRANT IMPACT

Pinellas County Sheriff PAL
Boxing Program

CFY has expanded into South County with the help of the Pinellas County Sheriff and the PAL Boxing Program. Over the past three years CFY has provided $100,000 in funding to the PAL Boxing Program. CFY is also thrilled to continue talks with former welterweight champion Keith Thurman about future involvement with the foundation and this program.

KEEPING KIDS IN THE GAME

42% of Families of Middle & High School Students Who Do Not Participate in Sports Cite Cost as their Main Reason

Providing a resource that helps families involve their children in sports fosters impacts that extend far beyond athletic performance and achievements. Studies show that physically active children score up to 40% higher on tests and are more likely to be motivated, focused, and successful in school. CFY is a youth support powerhouse with a robust network of agencies to ensure that all children can participate in growth-oriented activities regardless of their economic situation. By opening up access for at-risk youth, children are empowered and provided opportunities for positive peer mentoring that helps reduce youth crime rates in our community.

Keeping Kids in the Game
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Donate Today and See the Difference Your Contribution Makes

Choose from a range of contribution options to help the youth of Pinellas county continue to learn and grow with the support they need.