Jai Patel
Foster Athletic Network Founder
The FAN Story
I started the non-profit Foster Athletic Network, Inc. (FAN) because I want to give foster kids the same opportunities I have. While playing on my AAU basketball team, I noticed my coach frequently bringing in different kids to watch practice but never allowed to play on the team. Curious, I asked him why they weren’t joining us, and he explained that they were his foster kids. He wanted them to be involved, but there wasn’t enough funding to cover the costs of playing on a team.
That night, I spoke with my parents to learn more about foster care and discovered that while foster families receive some government support, it often doesn’t extend to extracurricular activities like sports. This revelation opened my eyes to the challenges these kids face, and I realized they were missing out on invaluable experiences that could foster personal growth, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
Understanding the transformative power of sports in my own life, I felt compelled to take action. I wanted to create a space where foster kids could not only participate in sports but also build friendships, develop skills, and gain confidence. So, I founded FAN with the mission to provide funding and resources for these children and peers, ensuring they have access to team sports and other enriching activities. Through FAN, I hope to empower foster kids, allowing them to chase their dreams and enjoy the benefits of being part of a team—just like I have the opportunity. Together, we can help them experience the joy and growth that comes from participation in athletics and community engagement.
– Jai Patel
The FAN Mission Statement
Empowering the lives of foster children through the transformative power of sports, our non-profit organization is dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for physical activity, mentorship, and personal development. We strive to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child, regardless of their background, can discover their potential, build resilience, and develop essential life skills.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by foster families, our mission extends to supporting foster parents in their crucial role. We are committed to providing both financial assistance and comprehensive support to alleviate the burdens they may encounter. Through our financial aid programs, we cover the costs associated with sports participation, including registration fees, equipment, and transportation.
Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and sports programs, we aim to instill confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging in foster children, fostering a brighter and more promising future for each individual we serve. Together, we believe in the ability of sports to positively impact the lives of foster children, promoting self-discovery, well-being, and a pathway to success in life.
Foster Care Statistics and Information
In Duval County, Florida, the monthly financial support for foster parents varies depending on the child’s age and needs. Typically, foster parents receive a basic stipend ranging from $400 to $800 per child. Additional funds may be available for children with special needs or those requiring extra support.
While foster parents in Florida don’t receive specific funding for athletics, they can access resources through the foster care system or local organizations to help support a child’s participation in sports.
Foster parents are generally responsible for costs associated with athletics, including registration fees, uniforms, and equipment. Some programs may offer scholarships or financial assistance, so it’s beneficial for foster parents to reach out to local schools, athletic leagues, or community organizations for potential support.
This is where Foster Athletic Network, Inc. (FAN) steps in to help!
In Northeast Florida, there are 2,586 foster children. There are 1,915 foster children in Duval County, 80 in Nassau County, 64 in Baker County, 161 in St. Johns County, and 366 in Clay County’s Kids First foster system.
As of 2022, the following are the 10 states with the highest number of children in foster care:
- California: 46,214
- Florida: 21,808
- Texas: 21,691
- Illinois: 20,815
- Ohio: 15,032
- New York: 14,489
- Missouri: 14,014
- Arizona: 13,012
In Jacksonville, Florida, there are several resources available to help foster parents support their foster children in participating in sports:
- Local Sports Leagues: Many youth sports leagues offer scholarships or reduced fees for foster children. Organizations such as the Jacksonville Youth Football League and the Jacksonville Junior Lacrosse Association often have programs specifically for them.
- Community Centers: Local community centers frequently offer sports programs and may provide financial assistance for families in need.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Groups like the Boys & Girls Club and the YMCA often have sports programs and scholarships tailored for foster children.
- School Athletics: Foster children can usually join school sports teams, and schools may have resources or funds to help with fees and equipment.
- Foster Care Agencies: Some agencies offer support and resources for extracurricular activities, including sports, and may have connections with local leagues.
- State Assistance Programs: The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) can provide information and resources for activities like sports for foster children.
FAN aims to bridge the gap, ensuring that all foster kids have the opportunity to engage in all forms of sports and activities that enrich their lives.