Charm City Youth Athletics Fund

Opening the Door to Youth Sports in Baltimore

Charm City Youth Athletics is a citywide strategy designed to break down systemic barriers to athletic participation, particularly for students in historically under-resourced neighborhoods. By investing in community-centered sports infrastructure, CCYA aims to create a sustainable model that reaches every corner of the city and every student who wants to play.

By 2030, our goal is for 63% of all middle school students in Baltimore City to actively participate in school sports, reinforcing a strong foundation of physical wellness, school engagement, leadership, and community pride. 

This initiative is not just about competition, it’s about connection, belonging, and opportunity. Through CCYA, sports will become a platform for youth development, leadership cultivation, and community building.

The collaboration between BCYF and Baltimore City Public Schools reflects a shared commitment to youth empowerment. Together, we are committed to ensuring that every middle school student in Baltimore has access to safe, inclusive, and enriching sports experiences.

What the Fund Supports

The Charm City Athletic Fund invests in programs and organizations that share a commitment to youth empowerment and safe, enriching sports experiences. Key pillars include:

• Funding Trusted Community Partners
  Grants for youth-serving sports organizations with proven impact, plus technical assistance and capacity-building support. 
• Health and Safety First
  Programs must align with City Schools’ health and safety guidelines to ensure student-athletes thrive. 
• Centering Youth Rights in Sports
  Adoption of Project Play’s Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports, a national framework guaranteeing every child the right to safe, fun, developmentally appropriate play.
• Youth Leadership
  Establishment of a CCYA Youth Council, giving young people a direct voice in shaping the future of sports in Baltimore.