PLAY OREGON

We are proud to officially launch the Sport Oregon Foundation’s second major initiative: Play Oregon. This program is rooted in the belief that every child deserves access to the physical, mental, and social benefits of play. Play Oregon aims to create safe, inclusive spaces where all children, regardless of their background, can experience the joy, connection, and transformative power of sport. Building on the foundation established by She Flies, Play Oregon seeks to remove barriers, engage communities, and ensure that sport is not a privilege for some but a right for all.

Research underscores the importance of this initiative. Participation in youth sports is linked to numerous positive outcomes, including better mental health, higher academic achievement, and increased physical activity in adulthood. However, access to sports is not equitable. Financial constraints and limited resources often prevent children from lower-income families from participating. By addressing these disparities, Play Oregon strives to make sport accessible to all children, fostering healthier, more connected communities.