The 18th Ward’s mission is to provide high-quality, low-cost youth sports programs in New Orleans, where everyone is welcome regardless of race, gender, income, or neighborhood.

We created our program to address the gaps in youth sports:

Locally, less than 20% of kids in Orleans Parish are active in sports.

Nationally, less than 24% of children 6 to 17 years of age get enough physical activity. (CDC)

40% of teen girls do not participate in sports compared to 25% of teen boys. (Zarrett, N. Veliz, P. & Sabo, D. 2018)

Due to financial barriers, children from low-income families are less likely to participate. (The Aspen Institute)

Based on race/ethnicity, youth representation across the country for black athletes is 8% for youth soccer, 10% for baseball, 14% for football, and 25% for basketball. (Sports & Fitness Industry Association)

We are committed to providing low-cost sports programs. Your support allows us to eliminate barriers to participation and reinvest money back into the community by hiring and training local youth coaches.