The Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce) is seeking applications for grant funding to support youth sports training as part of the Community Reinvestment Project (CRP). This initiative aims to equip coaches, programs, and trainers with the necessary resources to disrupt violence and enhance youth participation in sports statewide.  Background of the Community Reinvestment Project In 2022, the Washington State Legislature set aside $200 million in the Community Reinvestment Account for the Department of Commerce to invest in communities disproportionately harmed by the historical design and enforcement of state and federal criminal laws and penalties for drug possessions (the war on drugs). Before authorizing Commerce to distribute this funding, the Legislature directed the agency to develop a Community Reinvestment Plan to guide funding distribution from the Community Reinvestment Account. The final report made recommendations to implement $200 million in state resources that the Legislature appropriated to Commerce, in collaboration with state and community partners, including the Office of Equity. CRP is distributing funds through 17 grant programs falling across four program areas: economic development, civil and criminal legal assistance, community-based violence intervention and prevention services, and reentry services, in alignment with recommendations detailed in the final report.  Violence prevention through these grants The Washington State Legislature has prioritized violence prevention as a key focus area for Community Reinvestment funding.  In response to community input in 2023, youth sports coach training and the removal of barriers to youth participation were identified as effective strategies for reducing victimization in communities.  A trained coach is one of the most influential adults in a young person’s life. Studies show that involved coaches serve as positive role models and help develop life skills in youth.  In fact, coaches who are trained in positive youth development inspire youth to improve their grades, stay in school, work as a team, set goals, be physically healthy, make smart choices about drugs and alcohol, and learn conflict resolutions skills.  These grants aim to eliminate financial obstacles for youth interested in sports while enhancing non-sport training for coaches, focusing on areas such as social-emotional learning, positive behavioral supports, and trauma-sensitive practices. With the Community Reinvestment Plan recommending $5 million in grants for training and barrier removal, the Community Services Division at Commerce will oversee the coordination and implementation of these initiatives. 

Any questions please contact sherina.james@commerce.wa.gov

Pre-Proposal Conference (via Zoom) Registration is required. May 21, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. 

Please visit our funding page for further information: Request for Applications - Youth Coach Training Grants - Washington State Department of Commerce