Why Community Enagement Matters
Community engagement is an important part of the NCAA’s mission to develop current and future leaders. Through educational outreach, youth development initiatives, community partnerships and championship legacy projects, the NCAA uses the power of college sports to create meaningful opportunities both on and off the field. These efforts strengthen communities, inspire young people and provide student-athletes with opportunities to serve, lead and make a lasting impact.
Supporting reading initiatives and educational opportunities that help students develop lifelong learning habits and academic confidence.
Building meaningful partnerships with local organizations and communities to create opportunities for service, engagement and lasting impact.
Connecting student-athletes with young people through mentorship, leadership development and educational experiences.
LITERACY
NCAA literacy programs use the excitement of college sports to inspire reading, learning and educational achievement. Through partnerships with schools, libraries and community organizations, these initiatives have engaged thousands of students and encouraged millions of minutes of reading nationwide.
Minutes Read
Elementary Students Participating
A nationwide literacy initiative that combines the excitement of March Madness with a bracket-style reading competition to encourage students to develop strong reading habits.
Promotes daily reading and literacy development through partnerships with schools, libraries, and community organizations.
A local literacy competition designed to motivate students to transition from learning to read to reading to learn through team-based engagement.
A nonprofit partnership that leverages sports to promote childhood literacy and expand access to reading resources nationwide.
Community Support
NCAA member schools and national office staff work alongside community organizations to create meaningful opportunities for engagement, mentorship and service. These partnerships help strengthen local communities while providing student-athletes and staff with opportunities to make a positive impact beyond athletics.
Legacy Project
A signature initiative tied to NCAA championships that delivers long-term community impact through facility enhancements, educational support, increased access and youth engagement opportunities.
IPS Positive Coaching Alliance
A partnership focused on social and emotional learning, leadership development and supporting student-athletes and youth through education-based programming.
Student-Athlete & Youth Development
Community engagement programs provide opportunities for student-athletes to inspire and support the next generation through mentorship, leadership development and educational outreach. These experiences help young people build confidence and create meaningful connections with collegiate athletics.
Team IMPACT
Connects children facing serious illness with college athletic teams, creating meaningful relationships that support resilience and belonging.
Make-A-Wish
Partners with NCAA Division II to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, raising millions to support this mission.
Special Olympics
Connects student-athletes with individuals with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sports and shared experiences.
Supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that build confidence, relationships, and long-term success for youth.
Provides mentorship and athletic programming to build trust, leadership, and life skills among youth.
Offers safe, supportive environments and programs focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character development.
Engages youth through cultural and educational experiences that combine art, nature, and community interaction.
Championship Legacy & Community Impact
NCAA championships create opportunities to leave a meaningful impact long after competition concludes. Through community projects, educational initiatives and facility improvements, the NCAA works with host cities and local partners to expand access, create opportunities and strengthen communities.
High School Student-Athlete Symposium
Provides high school student-athletes with tools and knowledge to successfully transition to collegiate athletics.
Youth Opportunity Initiatives
Programs that connect young people with sport, education and leadership opportunities.
Youth Clinics
NCAA Youth Clinics are a unique way of engaging youth in our championship communities by providing drills and leadership development tools to help them skills to learn and develop in the sport. Youth have the opportunity to meet and learn from NCAA coaches and student-athletes in this FREE event to the public.