Girls and women who play sports have higher self-esteem and confidence, and lower levels of depression than non-athletes.
Female athletes are more likely to graduate high school and achieve better academic outcomes compared to peers who don’t play sports.
Cost is a frequently cited obstacle: 73% of female sports leaders say that the ability of parents to afford participation fees is a major concern for girls’ participation.
Our
Story
Duval Youth Empowerment Foundation was created by a dedicated group of coaches and parents who recognized a growing need within our community. We saw talented, hardworking girls with the passion and potential to excel in basketball, yet many were unable to participate in the competitive environment of AAU due to the significant financial burden placed on their families. Tournament fees, uniforms, travel expenses, and training costs became barriers that kept capable athletes on the sidelines rather than on the court where they belonged.
Rather than accept that outcome, we chose to take action. We came together with one shared belief: every girl deserves the opportunity to chase her goals, develop confidence, and change the trajectory of her future through sport, regardless of financial circumstance. Basketball is more than a game. It builds character, discipline, leadership, and a strong sense of belonging. It opens doors to new experiences and, for some, even the pathway to higher education.
Our foundation was born from that conviction. What began as a small group determined to support a handful of local athletes has grown into a community movement focused on empowering girls across Florida. We remain committed to removing barriers, expanding opportunity, and ensuring that talent and dedication, not household income, determine who gets the chance to play.
This is only the beginning of what we can accomplish together.