Children and Family Services’ annual Sports Faire creates lasting opportunities for youth

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More than 100 foster, kinship and probation youth gathered for San Bernardino County Children and Family Services’ (CFS) 17th annual Sports Faire, where they explored new interests, built confidence and experienced the joy of teamwork through sports. Whether trying a sport for the first time or building on existing skills, youth embraced new challenges, discovered new talents and celebrated one another’s successes throughout the day.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from Board of Supervisors Vice Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. and CFS Director Jeany Glasgow, who encouraged youth to embrace every opportunity the event offered. Throughout the day, participants explored a variety of sports, including soccer, boxing, track and field, cheer and dance, football, volleyball, basketball, baseball and the event’s newest addition, pickleball. Adding to the excitement was a rock-climbing wall, where youth challenged themselves and encouraged one another.

A highlight of the event was a visit from NFL running back Alexander Mattison, who spoke with youth about the importance of prioritizing mental health, believing in themselves and working hard to achieve their goals. His interaction with participants inspired many of the youth to continue pursuing their dreams both on and off the field.

While youth participated in sports, caregivers attended a training session hosted by CFS’ Resource Family Approval team. The training provided foster parents and caregivers with valuable resources and strategies to better support the children and youth in their care. This training also offered an opportunity to connect directly with the Resource Family Approval team to ask questions and learn about ongoing services and support. Before the event concluded, each youth in attendance received a new pair of athletic shoes donated by Children’s Fund and Shoes That Fit. Through this generous donation, the youth left with both lasting memories and the tools to continue pursuing active, healthy lifestyles.

For 17 years, the Sports Faire has been more than a day of recreation; it’s an opportunity for youth to discover new passions, build meaningful connections and celebrate their strengths. Through events like the Sports Faire, CFS continues to invest in opportunities that help youth thrive both in athletics and in life.

Additional County Update News – July 30, 2026