our story
Learn how our mission, history, and partnerships have created life-changing opportunities for young people in our communities.
Our Mission
The Chelsea Piers Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families in the tri-state area by providing access to sports programs, scholarships, and healthy life experiences. Through community partnerships and youth development programs, we help young people build confidence, skills, and a lifelong connection to health and wellness.
Our IMPACT
Behind every application is a young person ready to grow and take on new challenges. We help open the door through sports, mentorship, and life-changing opportunities.
577
SCHOLARSHIPS
2,400
In 2024
1,300
hours of free
learn-to-swim lessons
young athletes served
“I love boxing, basketball, and soccer. I went to this program before and loved it. I’m so grateful to be accepted. Thank you for this opportunity.”
— Isaiah, Age 6
Participation in youth sports supports:
HEALTH 90% less likely to suffer from obesity and other chronic health conditions
HAPPINESS 50% likely to experience feelings of depression and hopelessness
PERFORMANCE 3X more likely to graduate high school than non-athletes and experience 40% higher test scores
EDUCATION 15% more likely to attend college
However, only 30% of lower-income families have children participating in sports. Rising costs of enrollment and participation, compounded with distractions from growing use of technology and social media at a young age, have resulted in a significant drop in physical activity for young people.
Chelsea Piers Foundation wants to
level the playing field.
Our HISTORY
Since 1991, Chelsea Piers has been committed to making youth sports accessible to children from all backgrounds. Based on the belief that sports skills are life skills, Chelsea Piers Foundation has created opportunities for young athletes to enjoy involvement in recreational and organized youth sports, instilling essential social and emotional skills at an important time in their development.
Explore the evolution of the Chelsea Piers Foundation below:
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Sky Rink Youth Scholarship Fund Established
Launched to provide financial support for young athletes participating in ice hockey and figure skating at Sky Rink, helping more children access the sport and advance their skills.
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Chelsea Piers Scholarship Fund Established
Created to help NYC children in need experience the benefits of athletics, from building confidence to developing teamwork and life skills.
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Expansion to Fairfield County, CT
With the opening of the Chelsea Piers Athletic Club in Stamford, CT, Chelsea Piers Scholarship Fund expanded its scholarship offerings to families around Fairfield County to support soccer, volleyball, swim, and gymnastics players.
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Chelsea Piers Foundation Formed
The Sky Rink and Chelsea Piers Scholarship Funds merged to create the Chelsea Piers Foundation, expanding our reach through scholarships and community partnerships.
Today, we serve families in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Fairfield County, CT through scholarships, learn-to-swim lessons, teen fitness workshops, and other health and wellness experiences.