GameChanging Grants

Mission: To advance the opportunity for every child to experience the life-enriching power of sports by removing financial barriers to participation.

Purpose

Microgrants designed to help children and youth who face financial barriers to participating in sports or physical activity. Grants are intended to remove immediate barriers to entry—not fully fund long-term participation.

Geographic Scope

Kansas City area and surrounding communities (based on funder location and partnerships)

Focus Areas

• Youth sports participation
• Physical activity access
• Mental health and wellness through sports
• Equity in youth athletics

Eligible Applicants

• Direct eligibility: Children and youth who face financial barriers to sports participation
• Application method: Typically determined through trusted referral partners such as:
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City
  • Schools
  • Community organizations
  • Coaches
  • Mentors
  • Other non-profit organizations with established mentor programs

Priority: Given to kids who would otherwise be unable to play due to cost.

Funding Details

• Award type: Microgrants (capped amounts)
• Typical coverage: Registration fees, equipment, uniforms, shoes, or short-term program costs
• Frequency: One grant per calendar year per child (unless special circumstances approved)
• Award basis: Based on available funding and verified financial need
• Processing time: Goal is 1–2 days once complete request submitted through partner organization

What We Fund

• League registration fees
• Sports equipment
• Uniforms
• Shoes/footwear
• Short-term program costs
• Special sports outings

What We Don't Fund

• Long-term participation funding
• Full season/year costs
• Non-verified need situations

Selection Process

Not competitive. Recipients identified through trusted community partners based on:

• Verified financial need
• Immediate impact (will grant enable child to play?)
• Alignment with ShareWaves mission to expand access to play
• Availability of funds at time of request

Payment Method

ShareWaves works directly with partner organizations, programs, or vendors:

• Primary: Direct payments to leagues, programs, or vendors
• Alternative: Reimbursement may be approved with documentation
• Families kept informed through referring partner

Organization Info

• Status: Registered 501(c)(3)
• EIN: 83-2598889
• Website: sharewavesfoundation.org

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through trusted partner organizations (not directly by families).

Application Process

1. Child/family connects with eligible referral partner (Big Brothers Big Sisters, school, community organization, coach, mentor, etc.)
2. Partner organization submits complete request on behalf of child/family
3. ShareWaves reviews and makes decision (typically within 1–2 days)
4. If approved, ShareWaves coordinates directly with partner, program, or vendor for payment

Required Information for Application

• Verification of financial need
• Confirmation of immediate impact (how will grant enable child to play?)
• Child's name and age
• Sport/activity details
• Specific items/costs needed
• Partner organization verification

Application Format

• Submitted through partner organization
• Specific submission method not detailed in available materials
• Contact ShareWaves directly for application portal or process details

Key Notes

• No competitive scoring system—applications evaluated on access, not merit
• Process designed to be simple, dignified, and fast
• Expedited review available based on urgency