Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Fund for Youth Sports
This grant funds Monroe County programs that use evidence-based strategies to increase access and quality of sports and recreation for children ages 5–13.
Funder: Rochester Area Community Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$25,000 per grant; ~$275,000 total distributed per cycle
Summary: Supports Monroe County youth sports and recreation projects that promote active lifestyles and align with evidence-based strategies to increase access and quality of sports experiences for all children.
Key Information: Only one application per organization; not for multi-year requests or school-based sports teams.
Description
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Fund for Youth Sports, administered by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, is designed to expand access to quality sports and recreation experiences for children ages 5–13 in Monroe County, NY. The fund supports programs and small-scale capital needs (such as equipment or field improvements) that align with evidence-based strategies identified in the State of Play: Greater Rochester & The Finger Lakes Report. These strategies include encouraging free play, revitalizing local leagues, promoting sports sampling, and training coaches. The fund aims to ensure all children, regardless of background or ability, can participate in enriching, community-based sports activities.
