Fun With a Purpose — Fueling Strong Starts for Young Athletes
At Strong Start Initiative, our fundraising events are more than just dates on a calendar. They are celebrations of community, connection, and the belief that every young athlete deserves the chance to play, learn, and grow.
Each event we host raises critical funding for our programs — from financial assistance for sports fees to mental health support, academic tutoring, mentorship, and facility improvements. When you participate, you’re helping to knock down barriers for high school athletes and their families.
Annual Awards Banquet
Our signature event of the year brings together families, community members, and supporters to celebrate the achievements of the young people in our program.
- Honors top student athletes in multiple categories
- Awards scholarships and recognitions for academic, athletic, and community service excellence
- Includes dinner, dessert, guest speakers, video highlights, and athlete interviews
- Offers sponsorship opportunities for tables, awards, and meal service
- Provides a chance to meet the athletes whose lives you’re impacting
Annual Golf Scramble
A fan favorite for golfers and non-golfers alike, our annual golf scramble is a great way to combine friendly competition with community impact.
- Team-based golf tournament with fun challenges at select holes
- Prizes for top teams, longest drive, and closest-to-the-pin
- Opportunities to sponsor holes, carts, refreshments, and prize packages
- Networking opportunity for community leaders and local businesses
- Perfect for corporate teams and community groups
Other Sponsorship & Fundraising Ideas
We believe in keeping fundraising fresh, fun, and inclusive. Here are other ways we engage the community while raising vital funds:
- Charity Runs & Walks – 5Ks, fun runs, and themed walks for all ages
- Sports Tournaments – Basketball, softball, or soccer tournaments with entry fees supporting our mission
- Community Gala – A formal evening with live music, auctions, and special guest appearances
- Trivia Nights – Local venues host competitive trivia with proceeds benefiting Strong Start Initiative
- Equipment Drives – Collect gently used sports gear for student athletes in need
- Seasonal Campaigns – Holiday donation drives or “Back-to-School” giving programs
- Benefit Concerts – Partner with local musicians and venues to host charity performances
- Online Fundraising Challenges – Social media–driven donation challenges to engage younger supporters
How Businesses Can Get Involved
Local and national businesses can amplify our events by:
- Serving as title sponsors or event co-hosts
- Providing in-kind donations like catering, printing, or auction items
- Offering employee volunteer teams to help run the event
- Matching employee donations to double the impact
Join Us in Making an Impact
Whether you attend, volunteer, sponsor, or donate, your involvement in our fundraising events keeps our programs alive and thriving. Together, we can give more high school athletes the strong start they deserve.
📅 Check our events calendar for upcoming opportunities to get involved — and let’s make this year our most impactful yet!