The mission of Pagnozzi Parker Charities is to open the doors of athletic experiences to children of low-income families. Our goal is to advance the well-being of children by giving them the same athletic opportunities as their peers.
Pagnozzi Parker Charities relies heavily on the support of our surrounding community to continue to provide assistance for under-privileged youth to play sports in the Northwest Arkansas area.
Northwest Arkansas is growing in many ways, but unfortunately, there is also a growing need for financial assistance to low income families trying to make ends meet. In the NWA area alone, there are over 42,000 students enrolled in kindergarten through 8th grade in public schools, and 42% are currently utilizing the free/reduced lunch program. A fact that is overwhelming is that the childhood obesity rate for Arkansas is a staggering 38%. Participating in sports is more than just a game; it’s a way of life.
We believe that involvement in sports has a direct impact on youth. Studies show that kids who play sports actually do better in school and have enhanced social skills. Sports also help prevent drug and alcohol abuse, and children who participate in sports are less likely to start smoking.