About CARES
Citizens Associated for Recreation Education & Social Equity “CARES” was formed in 2015 by the Airway Heights Parks & Recreation Department.
CARES works to promote the Airway Heights Parks & Recreation Department’s mission of creating community and quality of life for all residents by supporting the development of quality recreational facilities, and programs for youth and adults in the greater Airway Heights area. Through enhanced community outreach, partnerships, and contributions, CARES collaborates and connects those that share in the mission of improving our community through people, parks, and programs.
As a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit, CARES has developed various charitable opportunities for individuals and business to contribute to parks and recreation projects, programs, and scholarships.
CARES Principal Objectives:
- To promote the acquisition and development of recreational facilities on the West Plains of Spokane County
- To promote recreational youth sports with skill learning, participation, sportsmanship, fun, and the development of positive self-esteem as the main goals
- To promote recreational activities that educate young people and help them make positive life choices so that they grow to become productive members of the community
- To promote the development of adult recreational sports with sportsmanship, participation, and fun as the main goals
- To establish a scholarship fund that will allow all residents of the West Plains regardless of their income level to participate in the programs promoted by the organization
In addition to these objectives, CARES will strive to be representative of the entire West Plains Community, and, as such, will remain sensitive and responsive to changes when they are in the best interest of the community. The Association works in a collaborative fashion with all area businesses, the academic community, the area Chamber of Commerce, and all branches of the Armed Services and other non-profit organizations as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service, Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The Association will contribute to the civic betterment of our West Plains community through the promotion of the acquisition and development of quality recreational facilities, the promotion of quality youth programs, the promotion of youth and adult sports programs, and by establishing a scholarship fund to allow all community residents to participate in programs. The Association will continue to play a dynamic and vital role of enhancing the quality of life throughout the community.
Mission Statement
To improve the quality of life for all residents by promoting the acquisition and development of quality recreational facilities where youth and adult programs can be developed.
The CARES Association will fulfill its mission through the volunteer efforts of the Board of Directors who continually strive to meet the Association’s objectives, goals, and ideals.
YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP
The CARES Youth Scholarship Fund provides youth in our community access to recreational programs for families who may not otherwise be able to afford them. These scholarships provide youth exposure to positive experiences and active lifestyles. By participating in recreational programs, children are provided the opportunity to gain and refine life skills and to develop positive personal and social assets.
Through generous contributions to the Youth Scholarship Fund, Airway Heights Parks & Recreation is able to connect youth and families to recreational opportunities that make a difference in their lives.
PROGRAM CHAMPION
Recreation programs offer community members of all ages the opportunity to engage in healthy physical and social activity. These programs serve to enrich the lives of participants through exposure to new hobbies, sports, and pursuits of general interests.
Becoming a Program Champion brings added levels of enjoyment and benefits to program participants directly. By giving to programs the contribution is directly passed to program participants through increased program supplies, incentives, as well as fee reductions, making our programs more equitable for a greater portion of the community.
PROJECT PARTNER
Through community input, and consistent parks, facility, and program evaluation, the Parks & Recreation Department manages an ongoing list of priority projects that require funding outside of the department’s annual operating budget. These projects are fantastic opportunities for individuals and businesses to get involved in the community and improve already existing facility amenities, or develop all new recreational opportunities for community use. All Project Champions will receive much deserved recognition to making these projects a reality and improving the quality of life for residents of the greater West Plains community.
CARES YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
How to Apply
To apply for a CARES Youth Programs Scholarship, complete the application with the most current information, provide all required documentation, sign your name, and return the application to the Airway Heights Parks & Recreation Office located at 11405 W Deno Rd., Airway Heights, WA 99001.
All applications are due at least 15 days prior to program registration deadline.
Please be sure to provide all requested information and documentation. Incomplete applications will not be processed. The information and documentation provided is confidential, and will only be used to determine eligibility.
Applicants will be contacted by phone or email regarding scholarship status by a member of the CARES Scholarship Committee. Scholarship approval does not automatically register a participant for the program. Once approved, recipients must pick up scholarship check to complete registration process. Approved scholarships will expire on the program registration deadline date.
Giving Back
The CARES Youth Programs Scholarship is made possible by donations, fundraising, and volunteering. Contact the Parks & Recreation Department for more information about giving back or getting involved.
Applicants will be encouraged to volunteer at least once in the calendar year at an Airway Heights Parks & Recreation program or event.
