How We Work

Why do private-public partnerships need to fund publicly-owned capital improvement projects when we pay high taxes?

Many capital projects are cost-prohibitive for local governments and put added pressure on the taxpayer. Most local taxes and budgets go toward fixed expenses such as salaries, building costs, pensions, and insurance. By accepting donations and partnering with the municipalities, FFK provides a way for community members who want to get directly involved in the quality and quantity of available sports fields in our community.  All donations go directly towards improving field space with our volunteer board fundraising and providing technical assistance for capital projects to ensure our community continues to have excellent field space.

Does FFK own the fields it develops?

No! The local municipality or school district continues to own the physical space. The municipality retains ownership of the space and is the primary party responsible for maintenance and day-to-day operations. FFK provides funding and project management by working with construction and design companies to plan for select capital projects.

How do you work with the municipalities and the school district to develop field space?

Working across municipalities and the school district, FFK takes a comprehensive view to advocate for the community's unmet needs for improved field space, better recreational facilities, and new projects. By considering all available field and recreational spaces, FFK can plan different projects to ensure all families can access various recreational spaces.

Do you partner with other community groups?

Yes!  FFK partners with local park conservancies and youth sports leagues to bring projects to fruition, raise awareness for the need for improved field space, and serve as the conduit to make capital improvements happen.

Donating

Are donations tax deductible? 

Yes!  FFK is a 501c3, and all donations are tax-deductible. Tax ID number is: EIN 43-2115809

How does FFK raise its money?

Fields for Kids accepts donations from community members across the spectrum and actively seeks out relevant government grants and corporate programs.

How do you decide what projects to fund?

Currently, our community has many unmet needs regarding field space. FFK is taking a global view of all available space in our community across municipalities and the school district to maximize field space and meet the growing demand from youth sports and community members. FFK has also prioritized using state-of-the-art materials and design elements to elevate our community's field and recreational space for players and spectators.

Does Fields for Kids accept corporate donations?

Yes! FFK accepts contributions in all forms, including corporate donations and stock transfers. To learn more about how to give, please see our Ways to Give page or contact Treasurer Tom Smith at fieldsforkidsmamk@gmail.com.

Get Involved

What is FFK planning long-term?

FFK was launched in 2007 and completed several projects before several board members transitioned off.  Our board has grown and is planning for long-term and continuous investment to ensure adequate field and recreational space that is properly maintained and continuously improved. 

Aside from donations, how else can community members get involved?

Speak up! Attend town and village board meetings, email the board, and share with your networks! Advocate to our local elected officials for adequate field space for all sports.

Town of Mamaroneck: Town Supervisor; Liason to FFK Jeff King

Village of Mamaroneck: Mamaroneck Recreation Department

Village of Larchmont: Board of Trustees; Mayor of Larchmont; Larchmont Recreation Department

A Case for Turf

Why are turf fields preferred for recreational sports?

Modern turf fields are not the astroturf many of us were familiar with as kids.  Turf offers better performance and increased playing time than grass fields which tend to degrade with high usage and may require downtime to allow the grass to rest for days between use. Turf is far better at standing up to heavy, repeated use without damage. What are some of the other benefits of turf fields?

1. Low maintenance

   Grass playing fields require heavy maintenance, including frequent watering, mowing, and fertilizing to keep grass looking attractive and in playable condition. It is usually necessary to replace parts of the grass or reseed the field to repair the damage caused by repeated use. Turf requires minimal maintenance once installed. Turf fields eliminate the use of potentially harmful pesticides and fertilizers while significantly decreasing maintenance costs.

2. Less expensive over time

   While turf has a higher upfront initial investment, turf fields' low maintenance and long-lasting condition make them a better investment than grass fields to maximize playing time. 

3. Works well in any climate

   Grass fields are difficult to maintain in the heat of summer and during wetter months, especially with repeated use. Turf withstands these weather changes and remains in good playing condition.