CarMax Kids, presented by CarMax, is a Gotham FC community impact initiative designed to create meaningful, memorable experiences for youth by removing barriers to access.
WHAT IS THE CARMAX KIDS IN-STADIUM PROGRAM?
Through this program, Gotham FC partners with local nonprofit organizations to connect young people with the excitement of professional soccer through in-stadium matchday experiences and free youth soccer clinics across New Jersey and New York. Whether attending a Gotham FC match for the first time or stepping onto the field at a local clinic, CarMax Kids creates opportunities for young people to experience the joy of soccer, build connections, and feel part of the Gotham FC community.
At its core, CarMax Kids reflects Gotham FC’s commitment to community, inclusion, and opportunity. By working hand-in-hand with trusted nonprofit partners, we aim to make professional soccer more accessible and to create moments that inspire, uplift, and bring people together.
Nonprofit organizations interested in participating are encouraged to submit their interest below.
REMOVING BARRIERS TO ACCESS
CarMax Kids is built to address the practical challenges that often prevent families and organizations from attending live sporting events. Participating nonprofit organizations receive:
- Tickets to a Gotham FC home match
- Transportation support to and from the stadium
- Meal vouchers for game day
By providing these essentials, together with CarMax, the program ensures young people have the opportunity to experience a professional sports environment. Designed to foster joy and inclusion, CarMax Kids provides the group with merchandise and a special live on-screen moment at half-time to recognize the work of the nonprofit!
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
Since the program began during the 2024 season, the CarMax Kids program has created meaningful access and memories for youth across New Jersey and New York:
2,602
Tickets distributed to GFC home matches
340+
Participants in CarMax Kids clinics across NJ/NY since 2025
12
Nonprofit organizations served throughout the season
6
Free clinics planned for 2026
75%
Parents who rated the program a 9 or 10 out of 10
200+
Backpacks, water bottles, and t-shirts distributed to participants
“For many of us, this was a first-time experience – some had never left the Bronx before – and to witness their awe and happiness was deeply moving. Coming from moderately low-income households, opportunities like this are rare, and this was nothing short of magical.”
2026 COMMUNITY PARTNERS WE'VE SERVED
Gotham FC is proud to partner with organizations doing meaningful work to support and uplift young people. CarMax Kids has welcomed both returning and first-time nonprofit participants, including:
Through these partnerships, Gotham FC continues to build authentic, long-term relationships with community leaders and organizations across New York and New Jersey.
CarMax Kids Clinics
In addition to the in-stadium experience, Gotham FC and CarMax have teamed up to host free CarMax Kids youth clinics across New York and New Jersey. These clinics are designed to bring the joy of soccer directly into local communities, providing young people with the opportunity to play, learn, and connect in a welcoming environment.
Gotham FC and CarMax are excited to continue expanding CarMax Kids Clinics in the seasons ahead. You can register for an upcoming 2026 CarMax Kids Youth Clinic here.
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUTH & COMMUNITY
CarMax Kids represents Gotham FC’s ongoing commitment to investing in youth, supporting nonprofit partners, and creating access to experiences that inspire joy and connection.
We are grateful to CarMax for their partnership and to the nonprofit organizations who trust us to create meaningful moments for the young people they serve. Together, we are building a more inclusive future for soccer and our communities.
GET INVOLVED
The CarMax Kids matchday experience is designed for 501(c)(3) registered-nonprofit organizations that:
- Serve youth and young people
- Are community-based and mission-driven
- Align with Gotham FC’s social impact values of inclusion, access, and empowerment
If this sounds like your organization or an organization you want to nominate, please complete our interest form to be considered as a participating organization in the 2026 or 2027 season.
Please note that participation is subject to availability and program review. Submitting interest does not guarantee selection.