Mentorship has the power to transform lives. For young people navigating the challenges of growing up, especially in underserved communities, having a mentor can mean the difference between thriving and just getting by. Cougs 4 Kids is a mentorship program that builds this critical bridge by pairing Washington State University (WSU) student-athletes with youth across Washington. This program uses the universal language of sports to inspire, mentor, and empower the next generation of leaders.
Through your support—as a donor, volunteer, or participant—you can help Cougs 4 Kids create lasting, life-changing experiences for everyone involved. Let’s dive into how this unique program makes an impact.
How Mentorship Transforms and Ignites Potential in the Lives of Marginalized Youth
Mentorship goes beyond offering guidance; it shapes futures. Research shows that mentored youth are 55% more likely to enroll in college and 78% more likely to volunteer regularly in their communities—a ripple effect that benefits everyone involved. Studies also indicate that youth with mentors are less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to excel academically and socially, making mentorship a critical intervention for underserved communities.
At Cougs 4 Kids, mentorship takes on a personal and innovative approach. Each camper is paired with a WSU student-athlete mentor, a role model who understands the value of perseverance, teamwork, and discipline. These relationships go beyond the camp experience, offering guidance that extends to life’s broader challenges.
Are NIL Donations Truly Revolutionizing Mentorship Programs for Future Success?
With the NCAA’s policies allowing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation, student-athletes can now receive financial support for their efforts beyond sports. Cougs 4 Kids leverages this policy to offer NIL stipends to student-athletes who dedicate their time and expertise to mentoring campers. This approach not only rewards their contributions but also creates a sustainable model for the program.
By donating to Cougs 4 Kids, you’re not just supporting youth—you’re also empowering student-athletes. NIL donations directly fund:
- Student-Athlete Stipends: Recognizing the valuable time and skills they bring to mentorship.
- Leadership Training: Equipping mentors with tools to guide youth effectively.
- Scholarships for Campers: Ensuring financial accessibility for all participants.
NIL funding underscores the value of mentorship as a two-way relationship—empowering both the mentor and mentee to achieve new heights.
Discover the Profound Impact of Your Support: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
Creating impactful mentorship experiences requires significant resources. From providing high-quality sports equipment to organizing life skills workshops, your contributions directly shape the program’s success. Donations to Cougs 4 Kids go toward:
- Facilities and Equipment: Maintaining safe, high-quality spaces for learning and play.
- Camper Scholarships: Ensuring that every child, regardless of financial background, has access to these transformative experiences.
- Healthy Meals and Snacks: Supporting campers’ physical well-being.
- NIL Payments for Mentors: Compensating student-athletes for their time and leadership, creating a sustainable mentorship model.
Every dollar makes a difference. Your support enables Cougs 4 Kids to expand its reach, improve its offerings, and continue shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
How Student-Athletes Are Making a Difference: Powerful Role Models in Action
For WSU student-athletes, Cougs 4 Kids offers a unique opportunity to give back while earning NIL compensation. By stepping into the role of a mentor, these athletes demonstrate the leadership and determination that have propelled them to success in their own lives. Beyond the court or field, they inspire young people to dream big and work hard.
Benefits for Student-Athletes:
- Leadership Development: Mentoring sharpens communication and interpersonal skills, preparing athletes for success both during and after their sports careers.
- Community Impact: Serving as a mentor deepens their connection to the WSU and broader Washington community.
- Financial Support: NIL stipends provide meaningful financial compensation, allowing athletes to focus on their academic and athletic commitments without added financial stress.
How Youth Are Embracing a Summer Full of Transformative Growth and Leadership
Summer camps are about more than just fun—they’re about growth, learning, and building connections. Cougs 4 Kids combines sports clinics, leadership workshops, and mentorship to create a well-rounded experience for campers. Highlights include:
- Sports Training: Coaching sessions led by student-athletes help campers build skills, confidence, and teamwork.
- Leadership Development: Workshops focus on goal setting, communication, and resilience.
- Community Projects: Campers apply what they’ve learned through hands-on projects that benefit their local communities.
By the end of camp, participants leave with new friendships, life skills, and memories that last a lifetime.
Discover How You Can Instill Hope and Make a Meaningful Difference Today
There are many ways to support Cougs 4 Kids. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Make a Donation: Your financial contributions fund NIL payments for mentors, scholarships for campers, and the resources needed to run the program. Every donation, no matter the size, makes an impact.
- Volunteer Your Time: From helping with logistics to serving as a camp counselor, volunteers are essential to the success of Cougs 4 Kids.
- Encourage a Student-Athlete to Mentor: Spread the word about this opportunity for WSU student-athletes to earn NIL stipends while giving back to their community.
- Enroll Your Child: Give your child the opportunity to grow through sports, mentorship, and leadership development.
Join the Movement and Become a Catalyst for Positive Change Today!
When you support Cougs 4 Kids, you’re not just contributing to a program—you’re investing in a brighter future for youth and student-athletes alike. Together, we can create a community where mentorship thrives, opportunities abound, and every child has the chance to succeed.
Are you ready to make a difference? Visit our website to donate, volunteer, or enroll in the program. Let’s shape the future together.
Julie Wukelic
References
Aspen Institute. Project Play: Key Findings. Accessed January 28, 2025.
https://www.aspeninstitute.org/programs/project-play
Mentoring.org. The Mentoring Effect: Young People’s Perspectives on the Outcomes and Availability of Mentoring. Accessed January 28, 2025.
https://www.mentoring.org/resource/the-mentoring-effect
National Collegiate Athletic Association. “NIL Resources.” Accessed January 28, 2025.
https://www.ncaa.org/nil-resources
National Philanthropic Trust. “Charitable Giving Statistics.” Accessed January 28, 2025.
https://www.nptrust.org/philanthropic-resources/charitable-giving-statistics
