How IT started
It all began in the hills of Novi Sad, Serbia, where 150 young people and a basketball brought about a new initiative. The U.S. Embassy in Serbia reached out to me to lead a peace camp in partnership with I Came to Play, a program aimed at promoting peace and unity in the former Yugoslavian region.
During my 26-hour journey back to the US, the idea for a non-profit organization dedicated to serving foster youth took shape. Since its establishment in November 2011, our vision has expanded to include a range of programs and initiatives, including sports clinics, trophy recycling, financial literacy workshops, employment training, and more.
I am grateful to the numerous volunteers and donors who have made this journey a reality. With their support, we have been able to impact the lives of thousands of young people who might otherwise have gone unnoticed.
Shane Hanson
Founder and C.E.O.
About Us
Freedom Youth Foundation (FYF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is deeply committed to transforming the lives of children in foster care, who need our support the most. Our mission is comprehensive: we offer sports clinics, provide financial literacy education, facilitate mentorship, and conduct employment training, all designed to empower these youth to build successful futures.
A unique aspect of our programming is Parker’s Closet, which provides essential clothing and personal items to foster children, enhancing their confidence and sense of well-being. Additionally, we craft unique experiences that go beyond everyday activities, creating memorable moments that foster growth and connection.
We harness the universal appeal of sports to teach critical life skills such as accountability, leadership, and teamwork. Sports serve as a powerful, cost-effective tool for development, capable of engaging and inspiring individuals across diverse backgrounds.
As these young individuals near the critical transition out of foster care, our financial literacy and employment training programs equip them with essential knowledge and skills. We cover crucial topics such as budgeting, banking, and understanding debt, alongside providing practical support through resume writing and mock interviews to enhance their employability.
At FYF, our goal is to do more than prepare these youth; we strive to see them thrive. We are dedicated to providing hope and opportunities through our impactful programs, ensuring each child receives the support they need to succeed.
A Look BAck
It's for the kids!
- Boise, ID
- Ventura, CA
- Orange, CA
- Manila, Philippines
- Tijuana, Mexico
- Youth Experiences
- Sports Clinics
- Parker's Closet
- Financial Literacy
- Employment Alliance
- Tuesday's with Trey
At the Freedom Youth Foundation (FYF), we believe every foster child deserves a life of hope and possibilities, and we are dedicated to building supportive communities and transformative programs that empower their futures.