About us

For over 35 years, Fight For Children has been a pillar in the DC philanthropic community. Through direct service programs, capacity building, and grants, we’ve impacted more than 440,000 young people. Today, our mission continues: helping individuals, organizations, and communities leverage the power of sports to improve young lives.

our mission

We unite and fuel the youth sports community in the DC metro area so more young people can discover and access the life-changing power of sports.

our vision

All young people have equitable access to high-quality, impactful youth sports experiences and resources, regardless of their circumstances, finances or location.

Our Approach

We act as the connective backbone for DC's youth sports ecosystem

Sports are a lifeline for many young people. However, the growing privatization of youth sports has resulted in increased costs for programming and related services, costs that many low-income families cannot afford. As a result, thousands of kids are being sidelined and missing out on the benefits associated with participation in youth sports.

Thankfully, there are a variety of local organizations providing accessible, free programs and equitable services to youth in underserved communities. These organizations serve a critical purpose for young people, providing a safe, fun, nurturing, and challenging environment where they can learn life skills and continue to thrive.

We believe every child deserves the chance to play, grow, and thrive — and we build the support system that makes it possible. Through the Youth Sports Collaborative, we unite nonprofits to deliver stronger, more impactful sports programs. The Sports Medicine Center keeps kids moving with expert care, injury prevention, and mental health resources. Our Early Access to Sports program opens the door early, introducing children to new sports and removing cost barriers. With the DC Youth Sports Fund, we fuel organizations that expand access and opportunity. And through community moments like Youth Sports Day and our Town Hall series, we bring families, partners, and changemakers together to collaborate, celebrate, and build a future where every child has a place to play, grow, and belong.

Meet The People Behind
Fight For Children

Our leadership, team, and supporters make this work possible.

Our Founder

Joseph E. Robert, Jr.

 Joseph E. Robert, Jr. founded Fight For Children in 1990 with a bold vision: to give every child the same opportunity to succeed that sport once gave him. 

His passion for boxing, education, and community transformation continues to inspire our mission today.

Our Leadership

Meet The FFC Board Members

Our Board of Directors believes every child deserves the chance to dream big. Their leadership ensures gives of time and finding create lasting youth impact.

Our Team​

Meet The Difference Makers​

Our dedicated team turns vision into action – managing programs, partnerships, and day-to-day operations that keep Fight For Children’s mission moving forward.

Our Supporters

Generous Partners

Our supporters form the backbone of this movement, fueling the leaders and programs that help DC’s youth thrive through sport. Without you, none of this would be possible.

Press & Publications

2020 annual report

Our latest Annual Report highlights a year of growth, collaboration, and measurable impact across DC's youth sports network.

In The Press

Explore recent media coverage showcasing Fight For Children's leadership in strengthening DC's youth sports ecosystem.