How Investing in Youth Sports Compounds Impact at Put Me In!
Put Me In! dismantles economic barriers for participation in sports by children of incarcerated parents. In this post, we share how our model helps create compounding impacts in our athletes.
In the world of investing, compounding interest is a marvel—a force that transforms modest investments into generational wealth over time. At Put Me In!, we designed our program around this principle: modest annual recurring investments in children of incarcerated parents (CIPs) for sports participation create compounding, life-changing results.
What seems like a small gestures—buying new cleats, softball gloves, or playing on a first travel soccer team—actually fund lifelong and repeated small lessons in resilience, teamwork, and confidence. These lessons build self-esteem and mental health improvements that shape a lifetime.
The Philosophy of Compounding Good
Our approach mirrors the strategic patience of value investing, where small, consistent investments grow into something much larger over time. Think of it like planting a tree: each year, it grows a little taller, its roots digging deeper into the soil. Eventually, it becomes a towering presence, providing shade, shelter, and beauty. Similarly, our commitment to these children starts small—with a pair of cleats or a registration fee—but over the years, the repeated impacts grows into life-changing outcomes across the academic, behavioral, and physical fitness spectrums.
“The lessons my sister has learned from boxing are invaluable. She’s not just more disciplined in her studies, but she’s also learned how to work well with others. I can see her becoming a natural leader, and it’s all thanks to the opportunities Put Me In! has provided.” - the caregiver of a 12 year old athlete from Kansas
Long-Term Commitment: The Key to Breaking Cycles
At Put Me In!, we believe that consistent, long-term support is the antidote to the cycle of incarceration. Our annual financial aid scholarships ensure that children can engage in sports throughout their formative years, from elementary school to high school. These experiences aren’t merely extracurricular activities; they are arenas where children learn to navigate challenges, collaborate with peers, and build self-confidence. The impact of these experiences compounds, equipping them with the resilience and leadership skills needed to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities.
Our program emphasizes the importance of high school graduation and uses the benefits of sports participation to achieve that goal. Four years into our operations, we are seeing incredible success. We are so proud to celebrate the first two high school graduates from our program! During their time in Put Me In!, both young women demonstrated incredible commitment to their sport, but also to their schoolwork, their families, and their communities. As they enter college, they are equipped with the tools to succeed and lead in the next chapter of their lives.
Beyond the Playing Field: Lifelong Skills and Community Transformation
“My son used to be so quiet and reserved, but ever since he started playing basketball, it’s like he’s a different person. He’s more confident and has made so many friends. The confidence he’s gained has carried over into his schoolwork and everyday life.” - the mother of a 9 year old athlete from California
The benefits of our program extend far beyond the sports field. When children participate in athletics, they learn valuable life lessons that shape their character and future. This personal growth doesn’t occur in isolation. Families and communities feel the ripple effects. Parents see their children thrive, siblings find inspiration, and entire communities gain role models and future leaders. By empowering one child, we plant the seeds for broader social transformation in the communities that need us most.
Take J, for example. Like many parents, Nicole was worried about her son J falling behind, especially after his father's incarceration. As a potential solution, she enrolled J in Put Me In! in 2021. J began with swimming and later went on to learn Karate -- where he's now up to a purple belt. "I just love seeing how he transforms, and it is such a beautiful growing process because not only is his confidence boosting, his self-worth is growing because he knows if he applies himself, he can accomplish this," J's mom Nicole said.
Beyond increased self-confidence, J's enrollment in Put Me In! has helped generate striking academic improvements -- and he was able to jump at four reading grades in one year. Off the practice field, Nicole has noticed that Put Me In! has honed J's discipline. J's experience is a powerful example of the compounding impact PMI! can have.
Embracing the Future: Your Role in Compounding Impact
"Put Me In! has given my daughter more than just the chance to play sports—it’s given her hope for the future. She’s more driven now, talking about college and what she wants to achieve. The program has opened her eyes to the possibilities out there, and I’m so grateful for that." - the mother of a 16 year old athlete from California
As we reflect on the power of sustained support, we invite you to join us in making a lasting difference. By investing in Put Me In!, you become a partner in a journey that transforms lives, families, and communities. Your support today is not just a donation; it’s an investment in the leaders of tomorrow. Together, we can harness the power of compounding impact to create a brighter future for all.
For just $85 a month, you can make a compounding investment in a child's future through our program. This monthly commitment ensures that a child of an incarcerated parent has ongoing access to sports, where they can steadily build critical life skills like resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
Your monthly donation doesn’t just cover the cost of equipment or league fees; it’s an investment that compounds over time, opening doors to new opportunities, providing a sense of normalcy, and instilling lasting hope for a brighter future. By committing to this investment, you take ownership of a child’s journey, helping to transform their potential into reality, month by month, year by year.
But you don’t have to commit to a large monthly donation to make an impact. Smaller contributions also add up and play a crucial role in supporting our mission. Every dollar given goes directly towards changing a child’s life and improving their future. Whether it’s $5, $25, or $100, your generosity helps us provide the resources and opportunities these children need to thrive.
The beauty of compound impact lies in the fact that small, consistent actions can lead to significant, long-lasting change. When you donate to Put Me In!, you’re not just helping a child today—you’re investing in their future success, and the ripple effects of that investment will be felt for years to come.
Imagine the possibilities: with each passing month, your support helps a child grow stronger, more confident, and better equipped to lead. By joining us as a monthly investor, you become a vital part of a community dedicated to breaking the cycle of incarceration and empowering the next generation.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Together, we can compound our impact and create a brighter, more hopeful future for all the children in our program.
Follow this link to make a contribution: https://give-usa.keela.co/donations-pmi
Join us at Put Me In! and be part of a legacy where your contribution grows, multiplies, and changes lives. Invest in a future where every child has the opportunity to play, grow, and succeed.
If you are interested in learning more about our program and the compounding impact we are having in young lives, send me an email at khalid.cannon@putmein.org