Dick's Sporting Goods steps up to the plate for kids

Dick's Sporting Goods is stepping up to support a cause that will likely appeal to many of the retailer's core customers: funding for public school athletic programs.

Dick's has announced a partnership with DonorsChoose.org, a leader in crowdfunding for U.S. public schools. For the first time ever, DonorsChoose.org will feature a dedicated "Team Sports" section supporting public school athletic programs. The Dick's Sporting Goods Foundation, through its Sports Matter program, will match dollar-for-dollar, up to $1.5 million, once each team is funded 50%.

"During the inaugural year of our Sports Matter program, it became apparent that youth sports are in crisis," said Lauren Hobart, SVP/CMO,Dick'sSporting Goods and president of theDick'sSporting Goods Foundation. "Saving youth sports is a core mission of our company, and we are excited to partner with DonorsChoose.org to keep more kids playing sports."

The partnership ispart of a $25 million multi-year commitment by Dick's and theDick'sSporting Goods Foundation to fund youth sports programs that are facing budget shortfalls. Teachers and coaches are encouraged to visit SportsMatter.org to apply for funding.

An estimated 27% of U.S. public high schools will not have any sports programs by 2020, according toDick's. Studies show the positive influence sports have on student athletes, enabling them to have more success in school, build social skills and resist peer pressure, the company said.

"Our partnership with DICK'S Sports Matter program aligns perfectly with our mission to address inequity in schools nationwide," said Charles Best, DonorsChoose.org Founder and CEO. "Access to sports is an important part of a well-rounded education and it takes committed communities and companies like DICK'S to make a real difference in kids' lives."