Looking Ahead to 2026: Building Hope Through Youth Sports

Estimated Reading Time: 6–7 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Youth sports remain a powerful tool for change as we enter 2026.

• Mentorship and access are central to long-term impact.

• The vision for Jinotega and Arkansas continues to grow, rooted in faith and community.

• Challenges remain, but consistent support drives real progress.

• You can help shape the future by volunteering, donating, or spreading the mission.

A new year brings more than a change on the calendar, it brings renewed hope, fresh goals, and the opportunity to build something better together. As we step into 2026, Cross & Field is reflecting on how far we’ve come and looking ahead to the lives we will continue to impact through youth sports.

From local programs in Searcy, Arkansas, to growing initiatives in Jinotega, Nicaragua, one truth remains clear: when kids are given a safe place to play, supportive mentors, and a community that believes in them, their futures change.

Reflecting on the Impact of the Past Year

Every season tells a story. Over the past year, Cross & Field has seen young athletes grow not just in skill, but in confidence, character, and faith.

We’ve watched:

• Kids show up consistently, even when life felt uncertain

• Mentors invest time, patience, and encouragement

• Communities rally together to support safe play

• Gratitude and leadership take root through teamwork

These moments may not always make headlines, but they are the building blocks of long-term change.

Why Youth Sports Matter as We Enter 2026

As we look toward the future, the role of youth sports nonprofits has never been more important. Many children, especially in underserved communities, still face barriers to safe play, mentorship, and opportunity.

Youth sports provide:

• Structure in an unpredictable world

• Belonging in places where kids may feel overlooked

• Hope when circumstances feel limiting

• Life skills that last far beyond the field

In 2026, our commitment is not just to run programs—but to deepen impact.

A Vision for the Year Ahead

Expanding Access to Safe Play

In the coming year, Cross & Field aims to continue removing barriers so more kids can participate in organized sports—regardless of background or circumstance.

Strengthening Mentorship and Leadership

We believe mentorship is the heart of transformation. In 2026, we’re focused on equipping coaches and volunteers to guide kids with intention, faith, and compassion.

Growing the Dream in Jinotega

The vision of a dedicated baseball field in Jinotega represents more than infrastructure—it represents consistency, safety, and hope. A place where kids can gather, grow, and dream together.

Building Stronger Communities

Sports have a unique way of bringing families, volunteers, and supporters together. This year, we’re committed to strengthening those connections—locally and globally.

Addressing the Reality Ahead

We know challenges don’t disappear with a new year. Limited resources, economic pressures, and access gaps remain real obstacles.

But progress doesn’t require perfection, it requires persistence.

Through consistent effort, faithful support, and community partnership, youth sports continue to be a powerful force for good, even in the face of adversity.

How You Can Be Part of the 2026 Story

A new year is an invitation—to step in, to contribute, and to help shape what comes next.

You can make an impact in 2026 by:

• Volunteering as a mentor, coach, or event helper

• Donating to support equipment, training, and safe play spaces

• Sponsoring a child or a specific program

• Sharing our mission, helping us reach new supporters

Every action, no matter the size, moves the mission forward.

A New Year Built on Hope

As we step into 2026, Cross & Field remains rooted in a simple but powerful belief: sports can change lives when they are guided by faith, mentorship, and community.

This year, we’re not just looking ahead—we’re building ahead. One practice, one child, one moment of hope at a time.

Thank you for being part of this journey. The best is still to come.