There is no shortage of evidence that involvement in sports and sports-related activities can greatly benefit youth and young adults. Whether in a school physical education class, being on an organized team or being able to meet and talk with professional and accomplished athletes, young aspiring athletes who have these opportunities can often enjoy outstanding success. Too often, however, the cost of participation fees or the necessary equipment to play safely presents a significant challenge to the sponsoring athletic organization or to the athlete themselves.

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With a 20-year background in the creation and operation of sports programs that have included the youngest football players on local teams to pro-ready NCAA Division I football athletes, and aspiring collegiate or NFL players, NLDF Founder and President Shawn Kennish has first-hand knowledge of the critical role athletics can play in a young athlete’s success.

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Shawn has now formed the Next Level Dreams Foundation with a mission to create, expand and increase opportunities for the participation of underserved or disadvantaged young athletes in the organized sports they love by securing funding and raising awareness of the issues faced and to addressing and overcoming the challenges. The Foundation is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization that will utilize the expertise of individuals in the sports and corporate worlds to make this happen.