The local nonprofit organization 2-4-1 Sports invites guest to a casual fundraiser on Aug. 27 that coincides with National Sport Sampling Day.

Courtesy image

By Ronni Newton

The tagline for 2-4-1 Sports – the local nonprofit founded by West Hartford residents Steve and Kerry Boyle – is “life’s 2 short 4 just 1 sport,” and they also believe that life’s too short for a traditional fundraiser.

On Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., “Play It Forward” will take place at the Pond House in West Hartford, and attendees are invited to kick off their work shoes, “trade meetings for movement,” and “pick up a beanbag” to support the organization’s programs that foster social and emotional learning for youth through sports and play.

“’Play It Forward’ invites guests to reconnect with play – think cornhole, giant Jenga, and nostalgic field-day games, while enjoying gourmet bites, cocktails, and stories of real impact,” organizers said.

“All kids deserve access to inclusive programming that builds confidence, connection, and resilience. Funds raised will support coach development, youth leadership training, and 2-4-1’s Physical Literacy Pals (PLP) pipeline – ensuring kids play, grow, and thrive.”

Guests will include community leaders, philanthropists, and wellness advocates – all enjoying childhood games while also supporting 2-4-1’s mission. Brian Gallagher, the director of the City of Hartford’s Department of Sports & Recreation, will be presented with the inaugural “2-4-1 Play It Forward Legacy Award.”

The dress code specifically calls for sneakers.

The event will also serve as the “official recognition of National Sport Sampling Day and the impact 2-4-1 is making across Connecticut and beyond,” Steve Boyle said. The Boyles are the founders of National Sport Sampling Day.

Earlier this year, ESPN announced the launch of Take Back Sports, a new youth sports initiative dedicated to increasing access to play for young athletes, and 2-4-1 Sports is among the multi-sport organizations that they are supporting.

“It’s time to take back youth sports from a system that has prioritized profit over well-being,” Kevin Martinez, Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at ESPN said in a statement. “Travel leagues have overtaken recreational leagues, specialization has replaced multisport play, and winning has come at the expense of fun. We need to shift the focus back to what matters – making sports accessible, enjoyable and rewarding for all kids. With ESPN’s deep sports expertise and unwavering commitment to community impact, we are uniquely positioned to help drive this change to elevate the conversation, invest in meaningful solutions and unite stakeholders to reimagine youth sports for the next generation.”

More information about Play It Forward can be found here, or by scanning the QR Code below. Donations are also welcome.

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