NIL at Cougs 4 Kids
Empowering Youth and Athletes
NIL at Cougs 4 Kids
Empowering Youth and Athletes
Empowering Youth and Athletes through NIL at Cougs 4 Kids
At Cougs 4 Kids, part of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Believe in Me, we create impactful connections between Washington State University (WSU) student-athletes and youth from marginalized communities. Through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements, we fund mentorship programs that develop leadership, resilience, and community engagement. Here’s how we blend compliance, community focus, and transformative mentorship.
Empowering Youth and Athletes through NIL at Cougs 4 Kids
At Cougs 4 Kids, part of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Believe in Me, we create impactful connections between Washington State University (WSU) student-athletes and youth from marginalized communities. Through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements, we fund mentorship programs that develop leadership, resilience, and community engagement. Here’s how we blend compliance, community focus, and transformative mentorship.
How NIL Supports Youth Development
- Compensating Student-Athlete Mentors
Through NIL agreements, WSU student-athletes are compensated for their dedication to mentoring youth. These athletes share their stories of perseverance and teamwork, fostering skills that help young people navigate challenges and achieve their goals. - Leadership and Skill Building
NIL funds enable the delivery of workshops and training sessions led by student-athletes, where participants build problem-solving, critical thinking, and leadership skills essential for future success. - Community Projects
Our program empowers youth to apply what they learn in real-world settings by leading community projects, such as clean-up initiatives and social inclusion efforts. This creates a cycle of mentorship, community improvement, and leadership development.
Compliance and Transparency
IRS Compliance
Detailed Reporting
Alumni Advisory Board
Tax Advantages for Donors
- Fully Tax-Deductible Contributions: Donations to Cougs 4 Kids are tax-deductible, making it a smart way to support youth mentorship while benefiting from reduced taxable income. Participating in employer matching programs can amplify your contribution, doubling the support for youth.
- Unique Benefits of Donating to a 501(c)(3): Unlike other collectives, donations to Cougs 4 Kids qualify for tax deductions, and we ensure these funds are used for programs that build stronger communities. Your support drives impactful youth mentorship and leadership programs.
Ready to Join Our Mission?
Every contribution helps us expand our reach and empower more youth. Your donation funds NIL agreements that allow WSU student-athletes to dedicate their time to mentoring, leadership training, and youth-led community projects.
One-Time Gift
Make a one-time donation today and help empower youth through impactful mentorship and leadership programs.
Cougs 4 Kids Crew
Join the Cougs 4 Kids Crew and pledge regular support to sustain ongoing youth mentorship and community projects.
Join Impact Society
Contribute a major gift to the Cougar Impact Society and create lasting change with life-changing impact for youth.
Contact Us
For more information or to discuss how you can get involved, please reach out!
Frequently Asked Questions
NIL stands for Name, Image, and Likeness, which refers to the rights of student-athletes to monetize and benefit from their personal brand.
NIL allows student-athletes to earn compensation for their talent and hard work while maintaining their collegiate status.
Yes, WSU student-athletes are allowed to participate in NIL activities in compliance with university and NCAA regulations.
Activities can include endorsements, social media promotions, sponsored content, appearances, autographs, and more.
Cougs 4 Kids provides mentorship opportunities and platforms for WSU student-athletes to engage in community service and earn NIL compensation.
No, NIL participation is voluntary, and athletes can choose to engage based on their interests and schedules.
Athletes must ensure that their NIL activities comply with university, NCAA, and state regulations, often requiring disclosure and approval.
Yes, Cougs 4 Kids can facilitate NIL agreements for student-athletes involved in mentorship and community engagement programs.
No, participating in NIL opportunities does not impact athletic scholarships, provided athletes comply with all relevant rules.
Opportunities include community mentorship, hosting sports clinics, participating in workshops, and event appearances.
Yes, student-athletes must report NIL income to the appropriate tax authorities and may need to include it in financial aid applications.
The NCAA provides a framework for NIL regulations to ensure fairness and compliance while allowing student-athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness.
NIL regulations apply to all eligible collegiate student-athletes, regardless of age.
Agreements typically outline the type of activity, duration, compensation, and terms of engagement, ensuring both parties are protected.
No, there are no earning caps, but activities must comply with NCAA, university, and state guidelines.
Yes, but they must be cautious about how NIL activities may affect their visa status. It’s recommended to consult with legal or visa experts.
Cougs 4 Kids offers guidance, resources, and structured opportunities to help athletes participate in community-focused NIL activities.
Yes, NIL income is taxable, and athletes should keep track of their earnings for tax purposes.
Activities such as youth coaching, public speaking, hosting training sessions, and leading community events can count as NIL opportunities.
Yes, athletes can collaborate with teammates or other student-athletes for joint NIL activities and events.
Violating NIL rules can result in penalties from the university or the NCAA, potentially affecting eligibility and participation.
Cougs 4 Kids collaborates with WSU and legal advisors to ensure all activities meet university, NCAA, and state requirements.
Cougs 4 Kids cooperates closely with WSU to create opportunities that align with NIL regulations and support student-athletes’ community engagement.
Yes, workshops and educational resources are provided to help athletes understand the benefits, responsibilities, and regulations of NIL participation.
While there is no formal partnership, Cougs 4 Kids and the Cougar Collective cooperate to promote mentorship opportunities that benefit WSU student-athletes and align with NIL guidelines.
